Connell graduated from Franklin Pierce College in 2007 with a Bachelor’s degree in psychology and computer science, and was a member and captain of the men’s varsity rowing team from 2004-2007. Upon graduation, he became the assistant rowing coach at Pierce from 2007-2009, earning his Master’s degree in Sports Management. Rich then went on to become the head coach of rowing at the Dublin School in southern New Hampshire from 2010-2015, leading the team to several state and national championships in that time. After a year coaching rowing at Vermont Academy (2016-2017), and prior to his current position at Middlebury College, he coached the Anchorage Rowing Association in Alaska (2017 and 2018).

Aside from coaching, Connell also rowed for the Merrimack River Rowing Association in Lowell from 2009-2015. During this time he competed at numerous national and international regattas such as the Head of the Charles, Elite National Championships, Canadian Henley, Club National Championships, and the Royal Henley Regatta. Personal accomplishments include taking 2nd at the Head of the Charles in the Club 4+ (2014 and 2015), 1st in the 4+ at 2014 Club Nationals, 1st in the 4- and 2- at 2012 Club Nationals, and 2nd in the 2- at 2011 Elite Nationals. Rich has taken up interest in extreme/Ironman distance triathlons as of late, but continues to remain active and compete in the rowing world in addition to being a full-time coach."