Sacred Heart Academy is grieving the loss of Coach Rick Heim, a cherished teacher, mentor, and coach who dedicated 34 years of his life to shaping the hearts and minds of students. His passing leaves a profound void within the SHA community, where his presence, compassion, and leadership inspired generations of young women to strive for excellence both on and off the field.

A Distinguished Career in Athletics and Education
A proud graduate of Trinity High School, Coach Heim began his career as a cross country and track coach before stepping into the classroom as a teacher. His impact was immediate and long-lasting. Under his leadership, Sacred Heart Academy’s cross country program rose to prominence, capturing seven state championships, three state runner-up titles, eleven regional titles, seven individual state championships, and a track and field state championship.

Coach Heim’s coaching philosophy was rooted in perseverance and positivity. He often reminded his athletes, “Don’t be a wish I had, be a glad I did,” a phrase that reflected his belief in hard work, gratitude, and resilience. This mantra not only guided his athletes but also served as a compass throughout his own life.

Honors and Achievements
Beyond the trophies and titles, Coach Heim was widely respected across the state and nation. He earned numerous Coach of the Year honors and was inducted into multiple Halls of Fame. In 2014, he received the prestigious National Girl’s Cross Country Coach of the Year Award, cementing his legacy as one of the most respected high school coaches in the country.

In 2025, despite his battle with pancreatic cancer, Coach Heim was inducted into The Louisville Catholic Sports Hall of Fame and honored with the Courage in Faith Award for his steadfast spirit and unwavering dedication. At the ceremony, his SHA family and athletes gave him standing ovations as he delivered a heartfelt speech highlighting his “Four Ds” – desire, dedication, determination, and discipline – values that defined both his coaching and his personal fight against illness.

A Teacher, Mentor, and Friend
Students and colleagues remember Coach Heim not only for his athletic achievements but also for his kindness, humor, and ability to make everyone feel valued. He had a gift for giving each student a personalized nickname, a small gesture that left a lasting impression. One student reflected, “What a gift it is that so many young women from SHA can look back and smile, just because of something as simple and fun as a nickname. That was his way – making the little things meaningful.”

Another recalled his unwavering encouragement: “He celebrated our wins and encouraged us in our losses. He cheered for the first girl who crossed the finish line and the very last girl too – exactly how high school sports should be.”

An Inspiring Story of Resilience
Coach Heim’s life was also defined by resilience. In 1986, he was severely injured in a car accident, spending months in a coma and overcoming a traumatic brain injury. His remarkable recovery and faith-driven perseverance became a source of inspiration to all who knew him.

A Lasting Legacy
Though his earthly journey has ended, Coach Heim’s impact on the Ursuline Campus and Sacred Heart Academy will endure for generations. His life was a testament to courage, compassion, and faith.

Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.