Bob Russ
Varsity Ski Coach (1969-
Asst. Men’s Soccer Coach (1969-
Women’s Soccer Club Coach (1973-
Women’s Soccer Coach (1983-2001)

Bob Russ served as a teach and coach as a member of the Chico State Physical Education and Athletics faculty for 33 years, beginning his career in 1969 until his retirement in 2001.

In 1969, Bob was hired as the Director of Intramural and Recreational Sports programs, what later became known as “Play Factory”. Besides his full-time commitment as the director, Bob also taught a full teaching load, and found time to coach. Bob served as head varsity ski coach for two years, and as assistant men’s soccer coach for nine. In 1973, Bob started club soccer for women and was named the head women’s soccer coach when that program reached varsity level ten years later.

Bob’s love for recreational activities continued, however. In 1991, he started the Outdoor Education Program and is responsible for the development of the climbing wall and the ropes challenge course.

Bob was one of the founding fathers of youth soccer in Northern California. He was on the founding board for the Chico Youth Soccer League in the early 70s, and served as the first president of the board of directors for that league.

As a collegiate coach, Bob enjoyed tremendous success. His Wildcat squads were ranked nationally in the top 10 in eight times in the 90s. He led his team to the 1993 NCAC title and his 186 career victories still ranks among the all-time leaders in Division II women’s soccer.

Bob Russ has been an outstanding member of the Chico community, the university and the athletics department. He and his lovely wife Annette have four children: Robert, Lori, Regan and Flint, as well as three beautiful grand-daughters.