Father Rick Tomasone

Coaching, Class of 2006

Rick Tomasone, a Warren native and 1972 graduate of Warren Area High School, built an outstanding career as a girls’ basketball coach after graduating from Gannon College and becoming a Catholic priest in 1980. He began his coaching career at Kennedy Christian High School in Sharon, serving as an assistant boys’ coach before becoming head coach of the girls’ team from 1985 to 2001.

During his 16 seasons leading the Crusaders, Father Tomasone compiled an impressive 371-86 record, an 81% winning percentage. His teams captured 15 Mercer County League championships and seven District 10 titles, reaching the PIAA Western Finals three times. His crowning achievement came in 2001, his final season, when Kennedy Christian won both the Western Pennsylvania championship and the PIAA State Championship. The Crusaders defeated two-time defending state champion Nativity BVM 48-46 on a dramatic last-second layup by Erin Frankovich.

Known for his leadership and dedication to his players, Tomasone credited the girls for the program’s success. Following his tenure at Kennedy Christian, he was reassigned to a pastoral position within the Erie Diocese and later worked with the Mercyhurst University women’s basketball program. His remarkable coaching record and state championship victory established him as one of the region’s most accomplished high school basketball coaches.