Foundations of Legacy: Coach Steve Ridder

For over three and a half decades, Coach Steve Ridder has been a cornerstone of Embry‑Riddle's athletic program, guiding the men's basketball team to remarkable heights.

With 759 career victories, 20 conference titles, 18 national tournament appearances and the 2000 NAIA II National Championship, Ridder's achievements are a testament to his dedication and vision. His Student-Person-Player philosophy has profoundly impacted everyone associated with the Eagles, making him a revered figure in the Embry‑Riddle community.

Inspiration and Motivation

Coach Ridder joined Embry‑Riddle at the age of 29, driven by the dream of becoming a head college basketball coach. Despite initial challenges, including no gymnasium, no scholarships and a team that had gone 0-22 the previous year, Ridder saw immense potential in the university. He was inspired by the opportunity to build something special on the athletic side that would complement Embry‑Riddle's academic excellence. Over the years, his burning desire to grow and create a program that the entire university could be proud of has kept him motivated. Ridder's vision was not just about winning games but about creating a culture of excellence that would positively impact students, faculty and the broader community.

Favorite Memory

One of Ridder's most cherished memories is winning the national title on March 14, 2000. Cutting down the nets after defeating the host team in a packed house was a magical moment for Ridder, his family, and the Embry‑Riddle community. This victory symbolized the culmination of a decade of hard work and dedication, transforming a program that started with no facilities and no scholarships into a national champion.

Ridder recalls the emotional significance of that night, with his family and supporters present — even a surprise appearance by his brother (dressed in what was supposed to be an eagle costume but resembled a chicken more so) — adding to the joy and celebration. This milestone was a testament to the resilience and determination of Ridder and his team, showcasing the power of perseverance and vision.

Proudest Accomplishment

Among his many accomplishments, Ridder is particularly proud of the decision to add women's sports to Embry‑Riddle's athletic program. Initially met with skepticism due to the low percentage of female students, this move has proven to be transformative.

Today, women's sports at Embry‑Riddle excel in both academic performance and championships, showcasing the impact of Ridder's vision and leadership. Ridder's commitment to inclusivity and growth has enhanced the athletic program, contributing to a more diverse and dynamic student body. This decision reflects Ridder's forward-thinking approach and his dedication to creating opportunities for all students.

Influential Figures

Dean Rocket, the dean of student affairs, played a significant role in Ridder's career, teaching him the importance of listening skills and providing unwavering support. Rocket's quiet demeanor and patience were instrumental in helping Ridder navigate the early challenges of building the athletic program.

Additionally, the board of trustees and various university presidents have been instrumental in supporting Ridder's vision for intercollegiate athletics, allowing him to build a program based on academic excellence, character and community engagement. The collective support from these influential figures has been crucial in enabling Ridder to realize his vision and make a lasting impact on the university.

Balancing Longevity with Growth

Ridder attributes his ability to balance longevity with growth to his commitment to “the triple P:” purpose, priorities and protecting his priorities.

• Purpose in life: He believes that everybody has a purpose in life. His purpose is to make a difference in people’s lives.
• Establish your priorities: His priorities are guided by his faith, family, friends and work. He believes that staying true to these core values has enabled him to remain passionate and motivated throughout his long tenure at Embry‑Riddle.
• Protect your priorities: You can talk all you want about your family being a priority, but if you’re not spending time with them, then they aren’t a priority. “There are just times when I have to tell someone, ‘I can’t help you. I can’t come and talk to that group,’” Ridder explained. “Why? Because I had promised my family I would be there for that event. I promised my wife I would take care of her.” While such decisions can be challenging, Ridder remains firm in his belief that protecting one’s priorities is crucial to staying focused on what truly matters.

Perspective on Adversity

Ridder’s personal experiences shaped his perspective on adversity and challenges. He uses a personal exercise he calls the "T box" to navigate challenges and maintain balance.

"In life, we all have to fight through adversity, disappointment and sometimes even devastation," Ridder shared. He recalled losing his son seven years ago, describing it as an experience of profound devastation. When faced with daily challenges — whether it’s a student-athlete making a poor decision, a tough loss in double overtime or financial constraints — Ridder turns to his T box for the gift of perspective.

On one side of the T box, he acknowledges his struggles and frustrations. But then he moves to the other side, where he focuses on his blessings: over 43 years of marriage to his “pretty cool soulmate,” four wonderful children and eight grandchildren who bring immense joy to his life.

“Before you know it,” Ridder said, “I build that side of the T box, and it just keeps going.” This exercise helps him stay grounded and appreciative, offering a powerful tool for overcoming adversity and finding gratitude amidst life’s challenges.

Advice for New Hires

Ridder advises new hires (and really anyone) to find something they love doing, ensure it is something they can be compensated for, love where it is located and most importantly, love the people they work with. He believes that these four boxes are essential for finding happiness and fulfillment in one's career.

Ridder's journey is a testament to the importance of these principles. He chose to pursue his passion for coaching over a more lucrative job offer, and his decision has led to a fulfilling and impactful career. Ridder encourages new hires to be honest with themselves and to seek out opportunities that align with their passions and values. He emphasizes the importance of working with people who share your vision and values, as this is crucial for long-term success and satisfaction.

Coach Steve Ridder's journey at Embry‑Riddle is a remarkable story of vision, dedication and impact. His contributions have elevated the athletic program and enriched the lives of countless individuals within the Embry‑Riddle community. Ridder's legacy is one of excellence, resilience and unwavering commitment to the values that have guided him throughout his career.