Dr. Richard Finch
Performance Coach and Psychologist
CAREER OVERVIEW
PLAYING CAREER
INTERNATIONAL CAREER
COACHING CAREER
COACHING PHILOSOPHY
Richard brings together a unique blend of personal sporting experience, academic expertise, and over 23 years of coaching and education within some of the world’s leading performance environments. Having competed in international hockey, performance sevens, and semi-professional rugby, as well as serving as a Royal Marine Commando reservist, Richard has first-hand knowledge of the demands of elite performance. Throughout his career, he has coached many athletes to international level across a wide range of disciplines.
Richard’s background as a competitor in international hockey and rugby sevens, combined with his semi-professional rugby career, gave him an early insight into the pressures and standards of sport at the highest level. This experience laid the foundations for his transition into high-performance coaching and psychology, enabling him to understand and support athletes with empathy and credibility.
Across more than two decades, Richard has led sport and performance development within some of the best educational and training centres globally. He has consistently guided athletes towards international success, applying his expertise across multiple disciplines. Alongside his practical coaching experience, Richard holds a PhD in transformational leadership coaching, which examined its positive effect on mental resilience in sport. He also holds MSc degrees in Exercise Physiology and Performance Enhancement, and in Psychology, equipping him with a deep understanding of both the physical and psychological demands placed on high-performing athletes.
Richard’s approach is rooted in a holistic view of athlete development. At SPI, he works as part of a globally renowned coaching team that enhances athletic performance, technical and tactical ability, nutrition, and mindset. His philosophy focuses on building resilience and equipping athletes to make the right decisions under pressure, while also ensuring they enjoy their sporting journey. Richard and the team take great pride in supporting progress and celebrating success, helping every athlete reach their full potential both on and off the field.