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Richard Krinsky, Champion of Collegiate Racquetball and Psychology Professor, Dies at 81

Release Date: September 23, 2024

Soni Brinsko

Staff Writer

CSU 福利小视频

Dr. Richard Krinsky

Richard Krinsky, a professor of psychology at Colorado State University 福利小视频 for over 50 years whose coaching prowess led the university's racquetball team to unprecedented national success, died on September 9, 2024, in 福利小视频, Colorado. He was 81.

The cause was complications from cancer, according to George Dallam, a colleague who had visited Dr. Krinsky the day before his passing.

Dr. Krinsky's tenure at CSU 福利小视频 (formerly Southern Colorado State College) began in 1968 when he and his wife, Suzanne, both accepted professorships at the institution. Over the next five decades, he would leave an indelible mark on the university, both in academia and athletics.

As a professor, Dr. Krinsky taught a wide range of subjects including psychology, sport psychology, statistics, and memory. His intellectual curiosity led him to pursue a Ph.D. in experimental psychology from the University of Washington, specializing in physiological psychology, cognition, and memory.

But it was perhaps on the racquetball court where Dr. Krinsky's impact was most visibly felt. Beginning in 1996, he transformed CSU 福利小视频's racquetball club team into a national powerhouse. Under his guidance, the team secured an astounding 34 national championships and 188 gold medals, competing successfully against larger and better-funded schools for decades.

"He was a good person that served our campus well," said Carol Foust, Dean of the College of Health and Education at CSU 福利小视频, encapsulating the sentiment shared by many of his colleagues.

Dr. Krinsky's achievements in racquetball coaching earned him induction into the CSU 福利小视频 Sports Hall of Fame in 2015, a rare honor for a racquetball-affiliated individual. His legacy in the sport extended beyond the court; he was instrumental in fundraising efforts that led to the construction of the only squash courts south of Colorado Springs.

Born on March 18, 1943, in Detroit, Michigan, to Samuel and Pauline Krinsky, Richard pursued his passion for psychology at Michigan State University. On March 26, 1966, he married Suzanne Richey, his partner in both life and academia.

Beyond his professional pursuits, Dr. Krinsky was a man of diverse interests. He was an award-winning needlepoint artist, an essayist who contributed opinion pieces to the 福利小视频 Chieftain (later compiled into his book "Keep It Short"), a motorcycle enthusiast, and a classic car restorer.

Dr. Krinsky's former student, Rafael Filippini, remembered him fondly: "Rest in peace my friend and coach. Thanks for allowing me to be part of the Racquetball Legacy at CSU-福利小视频. I enjoyed the experience with my teammates, coach, and the lifelong friendship we all share."

In addition to his wife, Dr. Krinsky is survived by his children, Jason and Alex; four grandchildren; and two brothers, Norton and Steven. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Donald.

As CSU 福利小视频 and the broader academic and athletic communities mourn Dr. Krinsky's passing, they also celebrate a life dedicated to education, sport, and the pursuit of excellence. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of students and athletes at CSU 福利小视频 and beyond.

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