‏Richard Tavernaro‏

In high school and college, he was a fairly accomplished swimmer and water polo player, and had successful coaching careers in both sports as an adult.

His adult life has taken him in many different directions - he spent 20 years (combined active and reserve duty) as an officer in the US Army, has taught special education, worked as a high school counselor, psychologist, athletic coach and is now working in the entertainment industry.

He holds four degrees (Bachelors, Masters and two Doctorates) in psychology and education from various universities along with numerous professional board certifications.

Richard considers himself a bit of an adrenaline junkie with a love of anything outdoors, especially if it involves the water and/or "adventure"... scuba, sky diving, sailing, skiing, hiking/camping, canoing and whitewater rafting are all activities he enjoys on a regular basis. He learned at a very early age that there is very little he won't try and very little he is not interested in.

Richard got his start in the entertainment industry when he took a year sabbatical to work on his book (a "how to" for parents of teenagers). After several months of working exclusively on writing this book, he began to suffer from cabin fever and needed something to break up the writers block. An actress friend (knowing that acting was something he had always expressed a curiosity with) suggested that he submit as an Extra as a way to get out of the house.

His first "speaking role" was in the critically acclaimed/award winning short film "The Tortured". Since then, Richard has been in a large variety of productions, ranging from television and feature films, music videos and voice-over. He has experienced a large number of roles during that time - Photo Double, Principle Actor, Writer, Casting Director, Technical Advisor, Director, Videographer and Editor.