Testimonials
Rich, I am so happy to hear that Act With Respect Always program is going so well. It is certainly making a huge, positive difference in the lives of many students. I applaud you for your efforts.
- Coach Mike Krzyzewski
- Winningest Coach in NCAA Division I Basketball History
- First to reach 1,000 wins
Coach Mike Krzyzewski
Rich always had respectful and classy kids on his teams…and that standard has only grown as he has moved forward with the Act With Respect Always campaign. Great guidelines for sports, classroom and more importantly, life.
- Lead walking reporter for CBS Sports’ coverage of the
- PGA TOUR, Masters, and PGA Championship
Dottie Pepper
Having lived all over the USA, I’ve always considered myself extremely fortunate to have grown up in Saratoga Springs, NY. My support system at home was always strong, but there was no shortage of support and positive role models once I left for school. Rich Johns was one of those role models. If athletes / students are a reflection of their coach / teacher, there is no doubt the “Act With Respect Always” campaign will have a positive influence on all those who participate. Thank you Rich, for spreading this message.
- Assistant head coach & Defensive Line Coach
- Baltimore Ravens
Coach Anthony Weaver
Your message is a beacon of light to so many young people today. They’re besieged by social media, bullied in person and on line, and driven to dark places even their parents aren’t aware of. Your presence, your message, helps them turn a corner and gives them hope in the face of despair. Your work isn’t just inspiring it’s life saving.
- Murphy, NC
- Former Newsperson, Producer and Anchor
- WWNY-TV in Watertown, NY,
John Shatraw
Rich, Thank you again so much for taking time to talk with our ACTION program. Your message was very well-received and I have no doubt impacted even more than I/we may hear about. I most definitely will be following up about having you back next year—maybe in October–earlier!!
I really enjoyed your demeanor and presence, and hope to share you with more folks that I know around the country at some point too. Keep doing this important and genuine life work!!!!
Again, sincere thanks for working with us and making all this possible!!
- Assistant Athletic Director: Student Athlete Development
- Duke University
- First Year ACTION Group
Leslie Barnes
As a teacher Coach Johns found the meaning of life. As he spreads his vision Act With Respect Always message he has now hit full stride in what his purpose is. It has been amazing to watch how Coach Johns has grown the program by simply practicing what he preaches. Having seen him personally deliver his program to elementary school kids, as well as teens and adults the response from participants is always the same…they leave wanting to share their 99% with others.
- Director of Curriculum and Instruction
- at Newcomb Central School District
PJ Motsiff
I have known Rich for many years. He continues to impress me with his devotion and passion to spread his message of Act With Respect Always. A message for everyone. I wish him continued success.
- College Basketball Analyst
- ESPN
Tim Welsh
“It’s wonderful to see the impact Act With Respect Always has made both regionally and nationally. Kudos to Rich for the energy and passion he’s dedicated to this project. I’m a big fan of AWRA.”
- Sportscaster
- He has announced NFL on CBS, PGA Tour on CBS, College Basketball on CBS
- NBA on CBS and NCAA March Madness
Andrew Catalon
Before there was “Solid5”, before there was “What’s Your 99?” and before there was “Act With Respect Always” there was Rich Johns. While many of you know Rich Johns from teaching or coaching or his speaking engagements, some of us knew Rich before he became “famous”. As a junior high student, I met a high school kid who was taking care of tennis courts and teaching group tennis lessons.Rich gave each kid who signed up for lessons the chance to learn about the game of tennis and as a bonus, learn skills about life. Rich taught me that on the court, “when in doubt, the ball is in”. From that I learned that everyone has value and should be respected at all times.Rich has testimonials and countless lives he has touched that do not show up in writing. What I know is that because of Rich Johns I am a much better person and am a better resident of the world. Thank you, Rich, for all that you are and I am forever honored to call you my friend.
- Founder and Lead Coach
- Beyond Phd Coaching
Steve Tippins, PhD
Thank you so much for taking time out of your very busy schedule to meet with our team at Granite & Marble Works, Inc. Your talk was met with so much enthusiasm and support — I knew that it would resonate with many, but I have to admit I was amazed at the positive response from every single person in the room. You had the group’s full attention throughout your presentation.
I hope you will come back again to visit and share your thoughts and ideas with our group. While you often focus on speaking with students and young people, your talk yesterday is proof of the universality of the message, and the impact Act With Respect Always has on all people, regardless of where they are in their life’s journey.
Thank you again Rich. Rest assured that our group felt visible to you, and you to us. You are a very special person to us all. We look forward to being a part of this movement and spreading this important message in our community.
- Granite and Marble Works
- Wilton, NY
Margaret Roohan
Act with Respect Always is not a catch phrase, it’s a way of life. Rich Johns lives it with passion every day. His work with students and athletes, sharing his message of treating each other with dignity is truly making us better people. I’ve always felt fortunate to have Rich in my corner.
- NewsChannel 13 (NBC Albany)
- Kelly's Angels, Inc.
Mark Mulholland
The Act With Respect Always program is such a valuable asset to young people as they develop personal and professional relationships. From an athletics standpoint, even to the most competitive individual, respect for the game and the opponent is paramount. Rich is second to none when preaching and practicing these life skills.
- News Anchor – WNYT NewsChannel 13
- Albany, New York
Chris Onorato
I have had the pleasure of working with Coach Johns in my role as a building Principal, Superintendent of Schools and as the Vice President of the New York State Middle School Association. Simply stated Coach always delivers! His message is powerful and important. I learn something every time I see Coach Johns and Act With Respect Always.
- Superintendent of Schools
- Greenwich (NY) Central School District
Mark Fish
Rich’s message is one of optimism and empowerment. Rich brings his story of helping young people find the strength and courage they already have inside them and affirms each of our instincts to do the right thing, and to treat ourselves and others with respect and dignity. Rich has visited our school twice and his program has left a lasting impact on both me and my students.
- English Teacher
- Southern Cayuga Central School
- Chairperson, Southern Cayuga Anne Frank Tree Project
Bill Zimpfer
I cannot express my sincere appreciation to you enough for all that you do promoting Respect. No words or actions could better describe what your friendship has meant to me over the last 40+ years than to see you speaking in front my students yesterday. During each assembly, the students listened, were focused, and truly absorbed the message you delivered that will take them to the next level. I appreciate you taking the time to speak to all grades and especially meeting with them afterwards in small groups. It’s truly a blessing to have friends like you, who are always there for the people who need you the most. I want you to know that I cherish your friendship.
- School Administration
Robert Loggins
“Rich is my role model and inspiration to be a tennis coach. He has taught me many more lessons than just tennis. I owe my success directly to Rich would be an understatement.”
- Director of A Plus Tennis Washington-Baltimore Area
Vinh Do
I have been a teacher for fifteen years in the Shenendehowa Central School District. Character Education is the keystone to any productive classroom. Over the years I have used many different programs in my classroom: “The Democratic Classroom,” “I CARE Cat,” “Bucket Fillers,” “Rachel’s Challenge” to name a few.
The “Act with Respect Always” program gave my students the core character traits needed to be respectful citizens. What puts AWRA above the rest is Rich Johns. His desire to come into the classroom to deliver the message of treating others and yourself with honesty and integrity puts AWRA above all other programs.
- Principal
- Corinth (NY) Central Elementary School
Renée Young
Rich, you remind us that a gesture can be small, almost inconsequential but meaningful to the recipient. We exist not alone, but as part of a society. And we know that a society is only as strong as its weakest member. Take the time to make an impact. Be visible.
- SUNY Potsdam
Ted Bence
Rich, having known you for many years and having the chance to spend several years in Saratoga watching you work; AWRA is no surprise. It is a welcome and wonderful opportunity for all of us to help and guide today’s youth. Being fortunate enough to have played and coached tennis at the professional level and travel all over the globe doing so; I think the premise and concept that AWRA represents is critical; not just for sport, but for life. Very few of us will be professional athletes, but we all are part of the world and human race. We need to be better people, better friends and better communicators and better co-existors. Keep up the great work and please feel free to call on me to assist you in your mission and help spread the word! Thanks for all you do for today’s youth and being such a great role model.
- Senior Tennis Professional and Master Racquet Technician
- International Tennis Hall of Fame
- Head Tennis Coach - Salve Regina University
Bruce Levine
“Rich Johns is a credit to the teaching/coaching profession. He is dedicated hard working and has always taught and exemplified the life long lessons that you learn in Interscholastic Athletics; accountability, respect, responsibility, citizenship and sportsmanship. Rich is a role model for all students, teachers, coaches and parents to emulate.”
- School Administration
Robert Stulmaker
I learned respect for one another in my home at a very young age. That trait has helped me in the personal aspect of my sports career more than anything. If you give respect, most likely you will get it in return. This site created by Rich Johns is a great reinforcement of the qualities that you should possess to be successful as a person and in whatever you choose to do with your life. Great site.
- College Basketball - Player of the Year
- Wooden Award Winner, Naismith Award Winner
Jimmer Fredette
If you asked me to choose an ambassador for Act With Respect Always Rich Johns would be my first 10 choices. He embodies character and integrity. I have had the privilege of knowing Rich for the past 30 years and everything he has done from teaching to coaching and community relations has been done with poise, skill, and rightfulness.
Act With Respect Always has never been more important to the development of our sporting society and our humanity. Our Children need to grow up with a daily foundation of how to act in all phases of life. Act With Respect Always will become the cornerstone of a generation of better people in sport and life. This is something I am truly thankful for.
- Strength and Conditioning Coach
- Owner of http://www.SportsSpeedEtc.com and http://www.LeeTaftSpeedAcademy.com
Lee Taft
“Rich Johns spoke at our Workshop for Girls about coming together as a “team” and how important communication, conflict resolution, acceptance and respect would be if we were going to become ambassadors of peace. I am forever grateful to him for continuously inspiring kids to not just understand the value of respect but to live their lives practicing it. The example he sets and the inspiration and motivation he offers kids through humor, common sense, and validation is his legacy.”
- Founder and Co-Director: Think Peace Workshop for Girls
Kelly Arthur
“Coach Johns is the ambassador for respect. His legacy will not be measured in wins and losses, but rather, by his ability to shape people’s lives off the court. Respect is at the root of his teachings; he demands his players to respect others – but most importantly – themselves. His emphasis on respect sows integrity into the character of his players, and helps them grow to understand their most important possession in life is their reputation.”
- Played Tennis for Coach Johns
Kareem Ghobrial
“Coach Rich was here last year and we embraced his message, but not all of our students heard him, so we wanted to continue the conversation about respect this year. We wanted to give his program as much support as possible. It’s a great message.”
Coach Johns also encouraged students to stand-up to bullies and finally “live a life of purpose.” “I think the kids feel good after hearing Coach Johns,” said Mrs. Hall. “They carry what he says with them for a long time.”
- Hudson Falls BOCES
Laurie Hall
“Act With Respect Always is more than just a phrase to students at Schoharie Central School. It is the school’s mission and is based on a character education program designed to build respect and leadership, teach positive and constructive behavior, and help stop bullying before it starts, both on campus and off.”
- Athletic Director
- Scotia Central School District
Jamian Rockhill
Thank you for you sharing your “Act With Respect Always” program with our students, staff, and me. Getting to know our school allowed you to personalize your presentations. Your actions modeled your values. While with us, you demonstrated your “pay it forward” theme and it resonated with us. You liberated those who were ready for that message validating the value of living a respectful life and unconditionally helping others. Students, teachers, and parents across the nation will benefit from learning more about your program.
- School Administration
David Z. Messner
I met Coach Johns at the Jimmer Jam Basketball Camp in Saratoga Springs in June. It was definitely more than just basketball for me and my family. So inspiring! I am a better mom, wife and person for meeting Coach Johns and being a part of the camp. Great work!!! Keep Inspiring!!!
- Warwick, NY
Amy Micallef
In my experience of over 35 years of officiating, when there is respect between adversaries, it’s a better game because the nonsense is nonexistent. The total commitment of both teams and coaches is focused on the game instead of the unnecessary chaos. If somehow this could become the mantra of high school and college sports, moving forward, it could be a better and more enjoyable game for players, coaches, fans, administrators and all others involved in the game.
Act With Respect Always is working hard to spread this important message for all to live by. Thank you Rich.
- NCAA Division I
- Basketball Official
Tim Higgins
Following Coach Rich Johns’ presentation I had staff and students developing ideas on how to advance the idea of Acting With Respect Always. It is fun listening to the students ask each other “What is your 99% today?” The students are also asking me! As the principal of the school the AWRA program has made dealing with discipline issues easier because I ask the student what they think their 99% is, following the situation that had them sent to my office.
I can see a difference in the culture of our school already and it has only been two school days since your presentation. You have made a difference in the students and staff of Little Falls Middle School and I sincerely thank you for taking the time to come here.
- Principal
- Little Falls Middle School
Brian Coleman
Absolutely fantastic tonight! Love your passion, your message and your kind words. You really had everyone in the rooms attention, it was awesome. I’m a big believer and a huge fan. Not sure why it took so long for me to experience your message first hand, but I was really moved by what you had to say.
I had a tough day mentally with some things eating at me at work. Just like you mentioned to all of us, I was dreading the drive down to Scotia, a lot on my plate. I am so glad to have been there especially after hearing and processing whatyou said, to all of us, at the Donny Dudley Gala. Wow! Awesome.
Thank you Rich. You made many things a lot clearer in my life. You are a great man and true friend. I checked my ego at the door many years ago, but now can focus on “paying it forward”.
- Head Tennis Professional
- Saratoga Golf and Polo Club
Bill Brahler
Coach Johns’ message, Act with Respect Always, is applicable in so many ways for both students and adults in our community. Read more from Richard Keys
- Athletic Director
- Queensbury (NY) High School
Richard Keys
I always knew I wanted Coach Johns to come our school, ever since I saw him present ‘Act with Respect Always’ at the Middle Level Conference, but it didn’t happen until now. Many thanks to the Prevention Council and Coach Johns for making our September 2015 Wellness Day truly about the impact of being healthy in mind and spirit. Students understood the power of their “99” and how they can make every day count. This is not a one shot presentation; it is a mindset that can change the way students treat each other, adults, and the world around them. Coach- you made an impact on every single member of our school community- thank you!
- Superintendent of Schools
- Stillwater (NY) Central School District
Patrica Morris
“Rich expects his players to play with respect. He’s a legend in my hometown for this, and it’s something he’s fast becoming nationally known for. Read an article written by Rich Harwood on Act With Respect Always.”
- Founder and President of The Harwood Institute for Public Innovation, Bethesda, Maryland