Web Threads: Mike Copley
11/14/2024
Web Threads are in-depth, behind-the-scenes stories from those at the heart of Richmond Athletics: student-athletes, staff members, loyal supporters, and more. Web Threads gives a glimpse into the ambitions, motivations, and sacrifices of the individuals who allow Richmond to excel at the highest levels of intercollegiate athletics and academics as well as the philanthropy that supports them every step of the way. Welcome to our web.
Spider football’s Head Coach Russ Huesman gathers the team into a huddle at midfield, shares a few thoughts, and then breaks the huddle with a single, powerful word, uttered in unison by the entire team: Family.
Standing in unison alongside the players and coaching staff is football alum Mike Copley.
He’s not a coach, and his playing days are long behind him. He’s something more—something special. A living testament to the lifelong impact of the student-athlete experience at the University of Richmond.
Though he graduated in 1978, Copley’s connection to the program is as strong as ever.
Copley’s story is one of unwavering loyalty—to a community he cherishes, a football program he deeply believes in, and a family he’s never left behind. His commitment to Spider football, along with his connection to current players like senior linebacker Wayne Galloway, has ingrained him into the very fabric of Spider athletics.
To the players, Copley embodies the Richmond spirit. His dedication goes beyond nostalgia; it’s about fostering a legacy and showing the younger generation what loyalty and perseverance looks like. For Galloway, Copley is much more than a supporter—he’s a mentor and a role model who shows them the depth of hard work, respect, and dedication that Richmond football is all about.
Copley arrived at the University on a scholarship in 1974, drawn not just by the promise of a great education, but by the chance to play football. The connections he made with an influential coaching staff, teammates and professors deeply shaped his life.
“They taught me self-reliance, how to keep pushing forward, and a work ethic I’ve carried through 40 years in banking,” Copley recalled.
Now, more than half a century after his graduation, he’s still a fixture around the football program, not just as a spectator, but as a mentor. Nearly every practice, he’s there, supporting the players, encouraging them, and checking in on injuries and their classes.
“He doesn’t just show up for games,” says Galloway. “He’s talking to us, asking how we’re really doing. It’s more than just football with him.”
Galloway, a Louisiana native, remembers his initial surprise when he saw Copley at a playoff walk-through at Sacramento State.“We didn’t know who he was at first,” Galloway laughed. “But Coach Wood introduced him to us, and after that, he was just there. Always around, always supporting. It’s pretty rare.”
Since that first meeting, Copley has been a steady presence, taking on a role that goes beyond that of a typical alum or donor. He embodies a kind of tough love, guiding players toward the resilience and grit he learned years ago.
“He’s invested, and it means a lot to have someone like him in your corner,” said Galloway.
For Copley, his bond with the current team is a way of staying close to his roots and giving back to the University that gave him so much. He particularly appreciates the approach of the current coaching staff, led by Huesman, who emphasize not only athletic success but also academic discipline and personal growth. “Russ and the coaches—they’ve got a different way of showing the love,” Copley says. “They care about these players beyond the field, which is how it should be. I think that balance makes a real difference.”
While Copley’s presence around the program is meaningful, his impact runs even deeper through his generous philanthropic support. Copley, and his wife Nanette, have played a role in advancing Richmond football toward championship-level success by funding special projects and annual giving that directly enhances the student-athlete experience. Their contributions have fueled critical facility upgrades, helping the program attract and retain top-tier athletes and coaches.
For Galloway, the results of the Copley’s investment were clear from the moment he stepped onto campus.
“One of the things that drew me to the University of Richmond was seeing the facilities,” Galloway reflected.
“I could tell there was real investment in this program. Especially at the FCS level, our facilities and the commitment to our program are phenomenal. And that’s a reflection of people like Mr. Mike,” Galloway added.
Copley’s support has not only enriched the program but has also created an environment where current athletes feel valued and equipped to succeed on and off the field.
“I was given a scholarship, and that meant something,” Copley emphasized. “It feels good to be able to give back and to be a part of this team again. I want others to see that too, that it’s not just a chapter you close. It’s family.”
