Buffalo State is saddened by the loss of former Buffalo State football assistant coach Richard "Sparky" Adams, a legendary figure in high school and college football in the Buffalo Community. Adams passed away on Friday, September 30, at the age of 91.  
 
Adams served as the defensive coordinator for the Bengals in the mid 1980s and into the 1990s. He was a vital member in transitioning Buffalo State into a Regional powerhouse as the Bengals entered the "Golden Age of Buffalo State Football" in the 1990s.  

"Dick was an extremely knowledgeable football coach," former Buffalo State coach Jerry Boyes said. "He cared about kids beyond the football field. That's more important than the X's and O's for the kids to know that."

"He was a wonderful coach, and an even greater man," Boyes said. "He impacted probably thousands of kids throughout his career. Those who played under him remember coach Adams."
 
Adams was the head football coach for Kenmore East High School from 1964 to 1977. He accumulated a 81-26-5 record in his time at the helm for the Bulldogs, including five sectional titles. His service to Kenmore East and the hundreds of players who he mentored was rewarded in 2007 when the football field was renamed "Adams Field."
  
Adams also spent time as a coach for the University at Buffalo, Canisius College, and as a scout for the Buffalo Bills. 

BUFFALO NEWS OBITUARY