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The Legacy of Ike Riley Sr.
"If I can help one young man stay out of trouble... all the sacrifice is worth it."
"Faith in Action is not a slogan. It is a lifestyle."
The Man Behind the Name
Ike Riley Sr. — known to everyone simply as "Coach" — was raised in a single-parent home on the South Side of Chicago. Growing up in poverty without a male role model, Ike's early journey was one of survival and hustle.
As a young man, he had no desire for the church and no plans for a traditional career. But as many would later discover, God had a plan for Coach.
A Journey of Faith
1996
Accepted Jesus as Lord and Savior at Liberty Temple Full Gospel Church, beginning a transformation that would touch thousands.
2012
Ordained as an Elder, Coach expanded his reach, taking the "Our Father" prayer to every court and field the Warriors touched.
2002
Began leading the Liberty Warriors. This was the birth of a mission that combined athletic excellence with spiritual mentorship.
2020
After 23 years without ever missing a single game, Coach completed his earthly assignment, leaving a torch for the next generation.
Professional
Excellence
Coach's faith wasn't contained within the church walls. He brought the same "Never Quit" spirit to his professional life at Sertoma.
He started his career as a Janitor. Through promotion after promotion, he eventually retired as the Contract Janitorial Manager—having grown a department from $16,000/month to over $4,000,000+ per month.
A Life of Sacrifice
Coach never missed a game. He bought uniforms out of his own pocket, paid tournament fees, and even hired team members at his workplace when they needed jobs.
He was there for every graduation, every birthday, and every late-night phone call. He was a father to the fatherless, proving that where you start doesn't define where you finish.
23
YEARS IN THE TRENCHES
Hundreds
MENTORED INTO GREATNESS
0
GAMES MISSED
$4M+
DEPARTMENT GROWN
Continue the Legacy
The Ike Riley Sr. Memorial Scholarship Program supports young athletes who embody Coach's values: Integrity, Strength, and Faith.