Alumni Spotlight - John Richer

It would be an understatement to say that the Everett High teams of the late 1990's were rich in guard talent. Players like Tim Bjella, Sam Nunez, and Zlatko Savovic were the foundation of successful teams that made solid runs to the state tournament, and each individual possessed leadership skills that molded their teams to play with a dogged determination that produced highly successful squads. The results cannot be disputed: EHS teams made three straight appearances in the State Tournament from '98-'00.

The unquestioned leader and dominant player of the 2000 team was a guard that was every bit on par with each of the aforementioned floor generals. John Richer was an All-WesCo selection in both his junior and senior seasons, playing the PG/SG positions with a quiet confidence that was infectious to his teams. John was one of the purest shooters that ever came through the program: if he had any daylight between him and a defender, you can bet Coach Haug felt comfortable that the ball was going through the net. That skill set, coupled with a knowledge and ability to play smart, efficient basketball, was the foundation of one of the most recent successful eras in Seagull Basketball history.

Currently, John is a math teacher and coach at Edmonds-Woodway High School, creating a meaningful impact in young lives. Hopefully some day we can get him back on campus at EHS doing the same thing:) Much thanks to John for sharing the following thoughts on his time as a Seagull basketball player:

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EHS Alumni Basketball – What years did you participate in the Seagull basketball program?

John Richer - I played from 97-00


EHS AB - Before you were in high school, what events led to you knowing you wanted to play ball at Everett?

JR – I grew up watching EHS b-ball. I remember the late 1980 teams, the 1990 team that made a run at state. The 95 and 96 teams were fun to watch. I always looked up to those guys. The game was played the right way under Coach Haug. I think that was why my dad (ed. note - legendary coach Joe Richer) was so willing to take me to games. It was good basketball.


EHS AB – Tell us a little bit about the group of guys you grew up playing with.

JR – My class included a great group of guys. Luke French, Lewis Hendry, Casey Price, Mike Swanson, Adam Sowinski, and Steve Limar.


EHS AB – What are some of your most unforgettable moments you recall from your playing days?

JR – The great moments were beyond the games. We always looked forward to practices, team dinners, and hanging out off the court.


EHS AB – What was the best team you were a part of during your time at Everett High? What made you guys great?

JR – The 98, 99, and 00 teams were all great teams. Each year was filled with memorable games which luckily we won quite a few of them. It would be impossible to say which one was better.



EHS AB – What opposing team do you recall having extraordinary battles with? How did you guys fare in those battles?

JR – We had battles with Stanwood my last two years. It all ended with a double OT game loser out/on to state that we pulled out.


EHS AB - Who was the best player you recall going toe-to-toe with?

JR – We ran into some great players at state. Jamal Crawford, Doug Wrenn, Mark Bigelow, Ryan Appleby.


EHS AB - Who was the teammate you enjoyed playing with the most? How did that individual bring the best out of everyone else?

JR – My favorite teammate was the rest of the class of 2000. They were an inspiring group of guys and still are.


EHS AB - Can you recall the most memorable game you played in as a Seagull? What makes that game stand out?

JR – The double OT game against Stanwood sticks out. The Jackson on to state game in 99 was a good one. The Mount Vernon game at state was fun even though we lost. A lot of people went to that game. It was a fun environment to play in.


EHS AB – Looking back on your experience, what traits were you able to take with you to help forge the person you’ve become?

JR - The Seagull program has affected who I am in a great way. It taught me appreciate being a part of something bigger than myself. It provided me with lasting friendships. It placed perspective on winning and losing that has molded how I coach basketball today.


EHS AB – If you could give the current group of Seagull basketball players any advice, what would you tell them?

JR – I hope today's players simply appreciate being a part off the history of this school and what the basketball program was and still is. I hope they take a slow walk through all of the team pictures, awards, and history of EHS basketball. Gain some knowledge and perspective on those who came before them and the great people the program has produced.