Starting in 2003, current Southern Maine Community College, Athletic Director and Head Men’s Basketball Coach, Matt Richards has been a key contributor to the success of his university and the enhancement of the USCAA. During his tenure, SMCC has won 32 conference championships and has made 31 United States Collegiate Athletic Association (USCAA) National Tournament appearances, grabbing regional and national recognition. Richards added Women's Soccer and Women's Volleyball to SMCC's sports offerings, expanded the Baseball and Softball seasons to fall and spring, and has overseen the renovation of the college’s athletic facilities to meet the needs of the growing program. In July of 2016, Richards was appointed Associate Dean of Students to add duties within Student Residential Life and Activities. In addition to his work on campus, Richards has also been an active executive board member of the USCAA, the national organization that provides regional and national post-season and award opportunities for small colleges throughout the nation. He joined the USCAA Board of Directors in June of 2006, and since that time has served in various capacities including Vice President of Marketing, Eligibility Chair, and President of the Board of Directors. Richards has since fulfilled his term as President of the USCAA but continues to serve on the Board of Directors and as Interim Eligibility/Compliance Coordinator. In 2009, Richards received the prestigious Commissioner's Award for his outstanding service and dedication to the USCAA and most recently earned recognition as the association's Athletic Director of the Year (2021) for the second time in his career. Richards is currently the President of the Yankee Small College Conference (YSCC), in which SMCC is a member institution. A three-time YSCC Coach of the Year (2004, 2007, and 2015), coaching nine student-athletes to 10 All-American selections, capturing three YSCC titles, and leading his teams to 10 USCAA National Tournament appearances including back-to-back trips to the Final Four in 2007 and 2008. Most recently, Richards led his team to the National Championship leaving with a win for the 2022 tournament.