Richard Kuntzler

Richard Kuntzler headshoit

1984

Richard was deeply involved in wheelchair sports from 1960 until his passing in 1984, contributing as a coach, organizer, and official whose leadership helped shape the foundation of adaptive athletics in the United States.

He began his journey in June 1960, serving as an assistant coach in track and field and slalom events. By 1962 and 1963, he was the track and field coach for the Abilities Team of Alberta, Long Island, New York. Richard’s organizational talent led him to design the National Reporting Booklet for qualifiers to the National Wheelchair Games (NWG). He also served as a member of the NWG Committee, assistant clerk of course, and later as chief technical official for field events.

Richard played a key role in advancing officiating standards in adaptive sports. He helped organize the National Wheelchair Officials Association, serving as its treasurer until his death, and directed the Tri-State Regional Wheelchair Games for six consecutive years.

His coaching excellence extended to the international stage. Richard served as coach for Team USA at the:

1971 Pan American Games in Kingston, Jamaica

1973 Pan American Games in Lima, Peru

1974 Stoke Mandeville Games in England
He also served as assistant to Team Director Ben Lipton at the 1975 Pan American Games in Mexico City.

In 1976, Richard was the clerk of course at the National Wheelchair Games and a member of the Games Committee, as well as head coach of the U.S. Amputee Team at the 1976 Paralympic Games in Toronto, Canada.

Recognized for his leadership, Richard was elected the National Wheelchair Athletic Committee Tri-State Regional Representative in 1981, a position he held until his death. He also served as Chairman of the Tri-State Wheelchair Athletic Association and as Games Director of the Tri-State Regional Sanctioned Games for several years.

Richard’s decades of service—as a coach, official, and advocate—were instrumental in building the structure and integrity of modern wheelchair sports. His lasting legacy continues to influence adaptive athletics to this day.