Christopher “Coach” Rivers was born and raised in Oakland, California, and established roots in Portland, Oregon in 2000. He is a nationally respected speaker, leadership coach, and founder of Chris Rivers RAPP, a platform dedicated to elevating performance, culture, and confidence in teams and individuals.

Known to many simply as Rivers or Coach Rivers, he delivers high energy, authentic messages that move audiences to take action and create lasting change. As one attendee shared, “Chris dictated the energy in the room… The wisdom, well spoken dynamic and peppering in laughter was enthralling to say the least.”

With decades of experience in research, teaching, coaching, and leadership development, Christopher brings a rare blend of lived experience and professional expertise. His journey began while he was a student at UC Davis, where he coached middle school athletes in Davis, California—an early experience that shaped his leadership philosophy and ignited his passion for developing people.

That foundation led to an influential career in global sports marketing with adidas and Reebok, where he directed major grassroots basketball platforms and supported NBA All Stars, MVPs, and future Hall of Famers. These experiences sharpened his signature approach: real conversations, real stories, and real strategies that help people perform at their highest level.

Whether speaking to student athletes, parents, coaches, educators, or corporate teams, Coach Rivers has a unique ability to connect across generations and environments. His sessions blend humor, personal experience, sport specific insight, and practical leadership tools that audiences can apply immediately. As one coach put it, “He instantly grabbed the attention of our student athletes and parents… His tone was direct and genuine, supported by years of experience from working with high achieving individuals.”

Although Christopher’s background is deeply rooted in sports, his message resonates with any audience committed to improving performance, strengthening culture, and leading with confidence. His work centers on mindset, resilience, communication, and the habits that drive excellence in every arena.

If your team, organization, or event is ready to elevate performance, strengthen culture, and ignite lasting motivation, Christopher Rivers delivers a message that sticks. Bring Coach Rivers to your next event and experience the impact of leadership through authentic conversation.