Eagles head baseball coach moves into dual role to lead athletics department
CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa (August 21, 2024)–Kirkwood Community College has named Head Baseball Coach Todd Rima as the institution’s new athletic director.
Rima steps into the role after serving as the Eagles head baseball coach, as well as an academic advisor, for the past 12 years. Altogether, he brings more than two decades of experience in athletics and student services to his new position. Rima will continue to serve as the Eagles baseball coach in addition to his new duties as athletic director.
In a corresponding move, the college also promoted Department Assistant Lynn Lueck to the role of associate athletic director.
To Kirkwood Vice President of Student Services Melissa Payne, the promotion of Rima and Lueck fit her vision for the future of the department.
“I’m thrilled to announce Todd Rima as our next athletics director,” said Payne. “His extensive experience in student services and success as a coach make him the perfect leader to continue Kirkwood’s tradition of excellence, while fostering a more connected and engaged learning environment for all students. I’m also pleased to name Lynn Lueck as associate athletic director, whose dedication to supporting student athletes and leading key initiatives will greatly compliment Todd’s leadership.”
Over his 12-year Kirkwood career, Rima has led the Eagles baseball team to a record of 421-212. During that time, multiple Eagles have continued their athletic careers at DI NCAA schools or moved on to play professionally at the highest levels. Before coming to Kirkwood, Rima was the head coach at North Iowa Area Community College in Mason City. He began his collegiate coaching career as an assistant at his Alma Mater, the University of Northern Iowa. His overall coaching record currently stands at 769-461.
According to Rima, he is looking forward to leading the department and carrying on the storied history of Kirkwood Athletics.
“I am very excited to become the athletic director of this highly successful department,” said Rima. “I would like to thank President Kristie Fisher and Melissa Payne for believing in my vision for Kirkwood Athletics. I can’t wait to work closely with Lynn and our outstanding coaches to make our student-athletes experience the best it can be at the NJCAA level.”
Rima replaces former Kirkwood Athletic Director Doug Wagemester, who left after serving in the role since 2006.
For more information, as well as other Kirkwood athletics news, go to www.kirkwoodeagles.com.