I guess my definition of a successful program is one that creates a family-type bonding, instills the love of competition, and helps kids acheive their athletic and academic goals.
But most important to me was that I wanted wrestlers to look back in 15-20 years and be happy that they were part of the team. A lot of people acquire medals and brackets, but don't gain the satisfaction that wrestling should afford every participant.
I was blessed to be part of a great wrestling community that was built by many. Team victories were great, however, my greatest satisfaction as a coach came in two different ways.
The first was when seniors would come out for the team knowing a varsity spot was very unlikely, but they gave everything they had anyway. I knew we had a family when they finished the season as a 4 year JV wrestler.
They second is when former wrestlers still call me for advise, to go to dinner, or tell me about what they have going on in their lives.
