Coach Alercio Breaks SJA All-Time Football Wins Record
St. Johnsbury Academy varsity football head coach Rich Alercio has officially become the winningest coach in program history, cementing his place at the pinnacle of Hilltopper football lore.
With his latest victory, Coach Alercio eclipsed the career win totals of two legendary former coaches who previously held the school’s benchmark records. Alercio’s 95th win surpasses Bruce Johnson ’65 (94 wins) and Jim Burlingame (93 wins). Alercio, who has led the program since 2013, reached this monumental milestone by sustaining a culture of excellence in Vermont Division I high school football.
Under Alercio’s leadership, the Hilltoppers have transformed into a perennial state powerhouse. His career at the Academy is highlighted by five state championship appearances, including a Division 1 State Title in 2017 with an 11 – 0 record that earned him the Vermont Division I Coach of the Year honors.
“Coach Alercio is legendary—he cares deeply about each of his players and believes in the power of a team to lift young people’s hearts and minds, never hides his passion for the game, and manages to be both quintessential and truly original.” – Headmaster Dr. Sharon Howell
“Becoming the winningest coach in program history speaks to the level of sustained excellence achieved year in and year out by Hilltopper Football under the direction of Coach Alercio. Congratulations to Coach, his coaching staff, and his players on this incredible accomplishment.” – Patrick Rainville, SJA Athletic Director
“Coach Alercio came to the Academy during my time as the Athletic Director. He brought high expectations for all involved in the football program from his experience coaching at the collegiate level. What I quickly realized was what an amazing teacher of the game he was. Some teams will have success when a strong cohort of athletes come through, but Coach Alercio’s teams have been consistently successful because of the commitment and instruction they have received from him. Our teams are well prepared, and their success is no accident; it has been earned. Congratulations Coach, on reaching this milestone.” – David McGinn, Associate Athletic Director
