Championships have been won, coaching staffs have changed, and thousands of student athletes have worn the old gold and blue since Lori Rice first arrived in Morgantown.
Now, as West Virginia prepares for another year of competition, Rice is beginning her 40th season with the Mountaineers, becoming one of the longest tenured members of the athletic department and a constant presence through generations of WVU Athletics. Read more: A constant behind WVU Football: Lori Rice.
Rice currently serves as the Administrative Associate for WVU Football and has been in that role since 1987. She manages administrative responsibilities for the head football coach and the associate athletic director for football.
Her role includes coordinating the head coach’s calendar, travel, speaking engagements, fundraising activities, media appearances, and correspondence with the Big 12 Conference, and the American Football Coaches Association, while also serving as a point of contact for public and donation requests.
Behind-the-scenes role with lasting impact
Although most of her work takes place behind the scenes, Rice has been a constant presence within the program, helping support the day-to-day operations through nearly four decades of change.
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Since arriving at WVU, Rice has worked alongside generations of Mountaineer coaches, student athletes, and administrators. She has seen the program evolve through conference changes, coaching transitions, and countless memorable seasons — providing continuity in one of the most visible programs at the university.
Legacy recognized by many
For many around West Virginia, Rice’s 40th season is more than just a milestone, but a reminder of the relationships she has built throughout her career.
Shortly after WVU recognized the achievement, social media was filled with messages from those who have worked alongside Rice and experienced her impact firsthand.
This includes messages from Mountaineer Hall of Fame Tight End Anthony Becht who said;
“Lori is the best!! Mountaineer LEGEND! Put her in the ROH (Ring of Honor)”
WVU Vice President and Director of Athletics, Wren Baker, also said “Let’s Go” in response to Rice.
The responses reflect the admiration Rice has earned over nearly four decades with the Mountaineers. While her work is often done away from the public eye, those who have worked alongside her know the impact she has made on the football program and the athletic department as a whole.
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Rice’s longevity has allowed her to work with generations of coaches, administrators and student athletes, while serving as a steady presence through periods of change while helping support one of the university’s most recognizable programs.
As West Virginia prepares for the 2026 football season, Rice’s milestone serves as a celebration of not only 40 seasons of service, but the lasting relationships and legacy she has built within the mountaineer community.
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