Dear Kansas wrestling Family,
I was able to attend the Division II National tournament in Cedar Rapids, Iowa this year. I enjoyed watching my former Team Kansas members wrestle, and especially win. Congrats to the 7 Division II All All-Americans and 2x national champion Cody Garcia.
I must say I was very disappointed in the performance cashed in by Fort Hays State. So disappointed, I felt compelled to start a topic that will be interpreted as negative by some. I am giving my opinion and pointing out a few disturbing facts.
Fort Hays State is supposed to be the premier program of our state. They have a very solid recruiting base as Kansas is a very strong wrestling state. I know they only get like 4.5 or 5.5 scholarships to work with from the school, but that they can/could raise the money to give up to 9.9.
Regardless of the number of scholarships; it’s a fact that FHSU and coach Bickley gets decent talent every year and fails horribly at developing it. It’s a fact that because of the track record head coach Cody Bickley has established that FHSU loses a great amount of Division II Kansas talent to other, local out of state Division II colleges like: Central Oklahoma, Nebraska-Kearney, and Nebraska-Omaha. This is because they compete for team titles and crown individual champions almost every year.
Honestly, these schools coaches have just proven they are better. They are more way more credentialed as coaches and were way more accomplished more as wrestlers then Bickley.
After 8 years you would think that coach Bickley would have built a top notch wrestling program with the Kansas talent he has to work with. Well, he hasn’t! He has coached only 13 All-Americans in 8 years! And No NATIONAL CHAMPIONS!
This year they had only four national qualifiers and one All-American. Under head coach Cody Bickley, the Tigers have finished: 21st, 24th, 10th, 22nd, 11th, 14th, and 24th, for an average team placing of 18th place. There are currently only 44 Division II college wrestling teams.
I don’t know Coach Bickley on a personal level. I am sure he has fine morals and is a great man, but believe he hasn’t done a good job at FSHU based on results on the mat. I believe they have done a good job academically under Bickley. Well, why not have a coach that dominates in both areas? A coach, that completely follows the rules and finds a way to get his athletes to dominate the competition in every aspect of the sport: mentally, physically, nutrition wise, technically, spiritually, emotionally, and academically. Someone that puts a product on the mat that is entertaining to watch and fills the stands with people excited to watch great wrestling. It can be done! I’ve seen it first hand built from the bottom up! (In, Division II just look to the North).
As an Ambassador/Athlete of the sport and Kansas Wrestling, I believe its time for a coaching change at Fort Hays State University! A change that would be beneficial to all of Kansas Wrestling. Everyone wants Division I program when we can’t annually field a dominant Division II wrestling team. Maybe, if FHSU rattled off 5 consecutive Division II national team titles the schools President would apply for Division I eligibility to be like Edinboro and Clarion Universities.
The bottom line is FHSU head wrestling coach Cody Bickley HASN'T GOT THE JOB DONE which is to win national team/individual wrestling titles while graduating 100% of the kids he brings in and he hasn't been close to accomplishing this. There are many great/better candidates to replace Coach Bickley living and coaching in Kansas right now. I am writing an email and calling Fort Hays State Athletic Director Curtis Hammeke to express my thinking and encourage you to do the same. His email/phone is: chammeke@fhsu.edu /phone :(785)628-4353.
Sincerely, Eric Luedke
Where should they start looking? Who do you think they could get?
I'm glad Mr. Luedke has all the solutions. Maybe he can coach the tigers to a National Title next year!
Eric,
As one of the great success stories from Kansas, I am very interested in hearing your views on how to develop and improve on the collegiate wrestling opportunities in Kansas. However, in this case I feel I’m going to have to disagree with you.
As you know, there are several responsibilities that come with the head coaching position in an collegiate program. In the areas of academics Coach Bickley has done a phenomenal job, which you have already acknowledged. As an ambassador for our state and our sport I can attest that he has been invaluable.
My principal concern is that your post alleges shortcomings in Coach Bickley’s coaching ability based on current and prior accomplishments at the national championships. I think that Cody is building the program in the right way, and those individual and team titles are coming. Part of the problem that FHSU encounters is the same reason that you give in questioning their results … we are surrounded by DII programs with solid winning traditions that draw some of our better wrestlers such as Cody Garcia. These are good programs with good coaches, so it’s easy to understand why they would attract so many of our top wrestlers and why FHSU has to fight hard to attract and keep Kansas kids here at home.
As you stated, FHSU is supposed to be the premier program for our state and, as such, must hold itself to a high standard throughout the year, not just at the national championships. In this respect I believe that Coach Bickley has given us a program that we can be proud of and that we can confidently send our sons to. He has assembled a very good group of young men and has instilled a good work ethic in them. It’s not that I am discounting the importance of succeeding on the mat at the end of the season, but I think that it’s equally important how you get there. Ultimately, I think FHSU and its wrestlers will rise to the top with Coach Bickley leading the way.
First off, Eric - you have an extreme passion for wrestling. That's very evident. You're a former Western Kansas wrestler who wants to see Western Kansas high school and college wrestling succeed. Quite frankly, you bring up some very valid points. However, a "can the coach" mentality is certainly not the answer.
I handle the public address and announce duties for Tiger Wrestling. I'd like to think I'm close to the program. We all have high expectations for FHSU wrestling. Coach Bickley would be the first to tell you those expectations were not met this year. Fort Hays, like any program, has wrestlers who have not performed well and others who surprised us at Qualifying and National time. Is Coach Bickley an inept coach? I don't think so.
What has Cody accomplished at Fort Hays? Earlier this year, he bacame the all-time winningest dual coach in Fort Hays history. Not a big deal? I think dual record, in addition to tournament success proves a lot about a coach's ability. I agree, though, it would be nice to see more success at the National level. Cody has also helped turn Fort Hays wrestling into an event. I think you'd be hard pressed to find many better D-2 wrestling atmospheres than Fort Hays. I don't know if wrestling matters at most D-2 schools. It matters at Fort Hays.
I'm disappointed when a wrestler chooses Kearney, UNO or Central Oklahoma over Fort Hays - especially a Kansas prep. It's tough to recruit against the best schools in the nation. But that's an ongoing battle with any sport at any level. I hope Fort Hays will be in that class soon. I guess the answer is to keep plugging away, recruit hard, and instill staying fairly close to home and being a part of a (hopefully) up and coming National power.
Again, I think simply getting rid of the coach is a "quick trigger finger" move. Cody has done well. But I agree - it's time to do better. Let's see Fort Hays climb the ranks of the most successfull D-2 programs in the country. You know what I love about wrestling? Fans like Eric have passion. You don't get this with cross country, track or tennis.
eric,
Did you have the courage to schedule a face to face meeting with Coach Bickley prior to your post?
Everybody has an opinion. Most of us, wish most of you with opinions, would keep your opinions to yourself.
I for one, will contact, Fort Hays State Athletic Director Curtis Hammeke. I assure you, it will be to thank him and Coach Bickley for their efforts.
And, without the use of this this forum, will ensure Curtis hears from the real Kansas Wrestling Families.
Sincerely, we have an opinion too.
Most of us, wish most of you with opinions, would keep your opinions to yourself.
??? speak for yourself, I am on this forum to read others opinions & give mine like I just did.
eric,
Did you have the courage to schedule a face to face meeting with Coach Bickley prior to your post?
Everybody has an opinion. Most of us, wish most of you with opinions, would keep your opinions to yourself.
I for one, will contact, Fort Hays State Athletic Director Curtis Hammeke. I assure you, it will be to thank him and Coach Bickley for their efforts.
And, without the use of this this forum, will ensure Curtis hears from the real Kansas Wrestling Families.
Sincerely, we have an opinion too.
Right or Wrong, Eric had the courage to sign his name to his post. Did You?
Eric, as a coach, I always appreciated somebody involved, or interested in my program calling me if there was a problem. Pick up the phone and call Cody, I am sure you can help with the solution. PM me and I will give you his number. As for the atmosphere, I caught a dual this year and it was great. Large crowd, good announcer, music, spotlight, and the good guys won! Things are in place the interest is there. Get involved!
Coach LaMar
I am glad to hear some positives from you FHSU supporters. Throwing money out of the equation, Coach Bickley does get some quality talent and they haven’t had a single national champion. As far as hiring a coach, your right that it would take at least a $50,000 package between coaching and teaching a class or to hire a top notch coach. Regardless, FHSU perennially under performs at the national tournament. If you are ok with the job he has done, don’t contact their A.D. except to donate money to the program, which I encourage you to do. I for one live by a high standard where winning at everything (academics, and on the mat) is a must and would not call to congratulate them. Eight years seems long enough to build a solid program that competes for national titles. Change can be a good thing!
As for getting involved, I live in Iowa City and can't make it to their duals. I watched some of their matches at nationals and follow them online. I wrestled with/against guys like Danny Grater, Phil Hart, Josh P., Kyle Patton, Eric Johnson, Bryce Bahe, Shawn Drennan, and Jacob Strait. How have they ended up academically? What did they accomplish on the mat? Did they over achieve based on their credentials out of high school?
As for Kansas people I would think would be quality candidates: Trevor Charbonneau, Dennis Charbonneau, Bryce Abbey, Mike Garcia, and Joe Renfro. They all have Division II ties, were solid wrestlers with most winning national titles, and have experience in fundraising. I also believe someone with Kansas roots would be important.
Sincerely, Eric Luedke
ericlued@hotmail.com
(785) 443-3001
Did you? Let me go real slow. NO
Did we get an answer yet to?
Did you have the courage to schedule a face to face meeting with Coach Bickley prior to your post?
Chad Beeson...I know the Beeson probably threw you. Now my part of the introduction is complete. You would be? Courage takes awhile for some to muster...take your time.
I don't have a beef with Coach Bickley. Just hypocrites that won't sign their names. Do you think that everyone that posts on this forum needs to have a face to face meeting with Coach Bickley?
Welcome back.
No, everybody that posts on this column does not have to have a face to face; just the ones who have the courage to publically bash the individual. Nor, do I think everybody that posts on this forum has to sign their name. geez - get over it pal.
Have we got an answer yet?
Have you got your courage yet?
You know, I visited the tin man and he gave me his heart.
I just haven't had the time to visit the cowardly lion yet. But, when I do, I hope he will give me his courage.
Do you want the address for the scare crow? I think he has something for you.
Don't look; it's not there.
tell eric to click his heels two times and follow the yellow brick road.
Had to chime in on this one. First off, Eric Luedke really has no reason to care about FHSU. But, HE DOES. 1wrestle, I am with Beeson, a name on your post is only the right thing to do, it takes courage. Do you have any? If so POST YOUR NAME. I feel that Eric has got the job done and is still working at it. Start watching the results of the future Olympians. My money is on him. With the track shoes or not.
I know Eric personally and have had him stay at my house with my family for a week. I will tell you this, he KNOWS what it takes to get things done. One of the finest young men to EVER wrestle in Kansas. The best thing about Eric is that he cares about the kids in Kansas. Not just the older kids, He calls and texts numerous youth kids from the age of 7 to 15. After getting to really know him it is hard not to respect his opinions.
I went to a dual at FHSU this year with my son and with a HS wrestler that is being looked at by D1 schools. I left there looking at my son listening to him say "Those guys need help in the room". He and the HS kid were both commenting on the technical flaws. These are things that are up to the coach. Little things. Mainly attitude and swagger. The stands were empty. It was sickening. I wanted to take him to an event to see what the next level is all about. He and I both were disappointed.
The most exciting thing about the dual was the match of the 2 youth wrestlers from Hays Wrestling Club. Not taking anything away from the the FHSU wrestlers but they are getting short changed. I have talked to former FHSU wrestlers and current wrestlers. They are not happy with Bickley either.
Glad you found the time to chime in. Good to hear from you.
Maybe your son and the D1 HS wrestler should consider FHSU. Sounds as if they could help out in the room. As we have heard, having better kids in the room would be a great asset. Maybe, one day FHSU wrestlers could be practicing with the best as well.
What do you say? Want to help out?
By the way, do you know Bickley, personally to?
I don't know, personally, Eric or Cody but I admire both. Eric for his courage to state his opinion and back it up with facts. Cody for taking a job that has its share of challenges and succeeding in most aspects. I am going to put myself on a side of this arguement and I am going to say that if we were talking about a hoops coach at either of the three D1 schools in Kansas Eric's post would have been mild when compared to what would be getting written in the newspapers and talked about on the radio. When Roy was coaching at KU he would annually get skewered for "not being able to win the big one." Many, many people with NO credentials to back their opinion would attack Coach Williams. Eric has credentials and facts to back his claim. When you are a professional coach in the college arena it is win or move on. I know I would be looking at the ability of a coach to take my kid to the next level if it were time to pick a school to go to. In my opinion I thought that Danny Grater would be an NCAA D1 All American and possibly even a champion. When I saw that he was going to Ft. Hays I just figured he would dominate the D2 competition. It takes a lot of things to be a college coach and Cody obviously has most of them. That makes him a good coach but not a great coach. You have to WIN to be great. Obviously Eric feels we need FHSU to be a great program not just a good one. Maybe Curtis and most of the wrestling community is satisfied with a good program. Be thankful for Eric's passion and his willingness to spur change. And I guess we should all be thankful that we even have a four year program to be talking about!
It was only a matter of time before we heard from you Will. You are right on queue. Thanks for the insights.
Since you and eric seem to have questions concerning Danny Grater, Phil Hart, Josh P., Kyle Patton, Eric Johnson, Bryce Bahe, Shawn Drennan, and Jacob Strait. Why don't you call them and post your discussion with them for all of us.
I'm sure Danny will share your opinion and thoughts about him. In fact, he will probably concur that his coach, who he chose, is the reason he is not dominating the D11 competition. It has nothing to do with being young.
Bottom line: Coach is on the right track. He has a talented group of YOUNG wrestlers who work hard and will have the opportunity to mature and compete in a couple of years.
When your school generates the interest and attracks the majority of the wrestlers, you usually have a better chance of being a great coach.
"Only in America is a Svo69 allowed to waste good oxygen and tarnish the freedom of speech. Is Svo69 is slang for moron?
Mr. Johnson, you are correct. The Kansas Team has an excellent opportunity this year. Hopefully, Detmer, Arnold, Caldwell, Flynn, Fisher, too mention a few, will continue to represent Kansas.
Excellent post Mr. William.
Svo69, Prior to defaulting, Fisher approached Carrolls' section of the auditoruim. Walked up the stairs and conversed with Mr. Detmer. Fisher is a class act." 1wrestle
This is the only other post you have put on this forum outside of your dribble on TIME FOR A COACHING CHANGE. Just another attack on a poster...
"Right on queue" What is that supposed to mean? I don't need to call anyone as the facts speak for themselves. I don't really care if they get a new coach or not. I just back Eric for having an opinion and for backing it up with facts. FHSU has to decide whether they want a good program or if they make a change to become a GREAT program. Eight years is long enough to determine whether or not the present program has a chance to ascend to greatness or stay in the middle of pack. I will support the program and school either way. I figure Coach Bickley is doing the best he can and there probably are several factors that contribute to the present status of mediocrity. That status will not be different unless there is change. Maybe the coach maybe something else but there will not be improvement without change.
I would say being young has a lot to do with it. I, being Ms Jenni this time, also watched the DII Nationals this past weekend. Some of our KS boys really shined and some were not so shiny. Cody's boys are young, my boys are young and I think there is still time to hear from all of them. The mental part of wrestling is so important and I am not so sure that any of you can teach that part. Not, every wrestler is a Sanderson and not every coach is a Gable, but that does not mean that what they do is any less noble or correct. I remember last year UCO was on top and UNO had quite a struggle. The tables turned this year. Does that mean that Coach James and Coach Denney need/needed to be replaced? I think not! A coach can only do so much. I could go one but I won't.
Something that was not mentioned in Coach Ed's post...I would say my boys decision not to go to FHSU was solely on the fact that they did not want to be "out in Hays" and they felt more drawn to a larger metro area. The decision was not made against Coach Bickley at all.
Of course, I have paid the price...now that call me an Okie. I am quick to remind all that I am from KANSAS. I also pointed out that that UNO National Champ with the most falls and the OW was from good old KS.
Ms. Jenni
Oh Will,
Now you are taking it personal. It's not personal.
Your history post is inconclusive. Where is the follow on posts by Svo69 apologizing for his previous posts? Getting selective again are we. Let the boys wrestle. Really not attacks, just looking for truth.
As for the number of posts. You have not not broke the "Top Posters" yet. But, rumor has it you are close to breaking the top six. You sure do have a lot of opinions. Right on queue.
Dear Coach G and Iwrestle,
To answer your question: I did not call Coach Bickley to schedule a meeting with him before giving my opinion that a change needs to be made at Fort Hays State University. Coach G, I called my dad and he has lost your number and would definitely enjoy talking to you. I know have moved to Iowa and established residency here but I promise I am a true KANSAN at heart. Iwrestle, I would like to hear your thoughts over the phone as well. You don’t even have to tell me who you are. I have already talked to a few people today and love hearing your thoughts.
Do I think I would make a better/great coach than what they have at FHSU? YES, of course I do. That is a no brainer. Is it a possibility in the near future? No, I plan on going to graduate school at the University of Iowa for Educational Administration and training though the 2012 Olympics.
I felt compelled to start this because the bottom line is FHSU head wrestling Coach Cody Bickley HASN'T GOT THE JOB DONE with the talent he has brought in, which is to win national team/individual wrestling titles while graduating 100%. Not to mention only 13 All-Americans in 8 years!
In regards to what winning on the mat and taking care of business in the classroom can do. Well, I know that as fan, business, or corporation, I would be more willing to donate more money to a team that is making national and state headlines for winning titles and doing something special like winning back-to-back national championships. Plus, when you are on a winning team, and are a national champ/scholar athlete/ all-American. It lasts forever and it would make sense that you would want to donate more/go watch more/and give more support than lets say a non all-American or non-starter. Just look at Kearney and how many former national champs/all-Americans stick around and help out for little to no pay. Or look at how many fans are in the stands at nationals to watch there competitive team compared to how many fans Hays had this year.
As for coaching candidates, who do you think would be the best guy to replace Cody Bickley should he ever leave, or not have his contract renewed?
As for Kansas people I would think would be quality candidates: Trevor Charbonneau, Dennis Charbonneau, Bill Johnson, Mike Garcia, and Joe Renfro.
They all have Division II ties, were solid wrestlers with most winning national titles, and have experience in fundraising. I also believe someone with Kansas roots would be important.
Once again, I am going to email and call Fort Hays State Athletic Director Curtis Hammeke to express my thinking and I encourage you to do the same. His email/phone is: chammeke@fhsu.edu /phone: (785)628-4353.
Sincerely, Eric Luedke
1wrestle: Why are you responding on this forum to Mr. Luedke's comments, have you called him personally and explained your position? Would you like his #, or does the "phone call"theory not apply to you? Why are you resoponding to Cokely on this forum prior to phoning him first? I personally dont think you need to, but neither does Eric need to Call Bickley peronally to state an opinion.(Which I think the facts obviously support.) Especially when you belittle someone for stating an opinion, (which they are entitled to) in the gutless fasion or an anonymous posting.
We all wish we had wrestling at KSU, KU, Wichita State, etc.. Well, if Coach Bickley isnt filling the arena with fans at FHSU and making National Champions out of some of our finest state wrestlers, there is a problem, and it's not going to assist us in making KSU and KU heavily consider adding the sport. I've got to be honest with you, I thought Grater sold him self short going to FHSU, and highly expected to dominate early on. That hasnt happened, and I cant say from 1st hand experience, but I cant beleive the majority of the blame falls on his talent, ability, or desire....so...? Ubben...??
on the topic of the "gutless fashion" of anonymous posting. I do sign my posts because if i did, i may be written off as some kid who doesn't know what he is talking about, or who wasn't even that good of a wrestler. if you really want to know who I am you can find out, or just ask, i will be happy to let you know who i am.
it is a rule of thumb that coaches are given 5-6 years to show real results. this is to allow them time to implement their system and their recruits. (case in point, the fighting Manginos of Lawrence) given this, we should now be seeing results. FHSU has finished in the top ten 3 times since 1987, with a high of 5th. Coach Bickley has been on the doorstep of the top ten twice now, but has also finished near the middle of the pack a few times. He does have a winning record in duals and the ever impressive 100% graduation rate padding his record, but can that make up for not cracking the top ten in his tenure at FHSU?
Chime, chime, chime. 1wrestle. At the point of "if" my son "CHOOSES" to wrestle at the college level, he will be asking "what can you do for ME"!!!!! Call it selfish, call it whatever you want. But, at the college level you don't go where you can be an asset to a room. You go where there are assets already there. Are you implying to go where you can walk in and have the varsity spot without a challenge? I think they call that running from the competition. Get real.
About Mr William. If you had any clue to what he has done for this state when it comes to wrestling you would apologize to him for your dis-respectfulness. What have you done for wrestling in the state of Kansas? Did you call him before you posted on here? I think that his # is posted along with his FULL name.
I didn't want to say it but, I feel that Eric would be the best candidate. I can tell you this. A BIG name coach brings in HUGE names. HUGE names bring in the $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$.
I do agree that there may be factors that may be holding Bickley back from doing what needs done.
I am wondering one more thing. Is Sportsfan02 your brother?
Have a great life hiding behind your mask. Those who hide are those who end up second. Second is the first looser.
The best candidate for this job, if it were to become open, is Eric Akin. He has been an assistant under Gable at Iowa and an assistant at Univeristy of Nebraska (where he trained and coached NCAA champion Jason Powell.) He has recently retired from competition and I think he would be very interested in this opportunity.
Welcome back.
No, everybody that posts on this column does not have to have a face to face; just the ones who have the courage to publically bash the individual. Nor, do I think everybody that posts on this forum has to sign their name. geez - get over it pal.
Have we got an answer yet?
I don't have a dog in this hunt, I do know the forum rules though. Let me paste in the waiver every user must sign and agree to when becoming a member of these forums.
This is a free forum, created for the purpose of promoting Kansas wrestling, and those who wrestle, through the exchange of thoughts and suggestions, and for the recognition of the accomplishments of those involved in our sport.
There are just two basic rules that are necessary to keep in mind. First, remember that this is a family oriented forum, and is regularly viewed by young wrestlers. Second, "cheap shots" will not be tolerated. If you are going to post a message critical of an individual, group or idea, you must give your true name and/or email address. Be willing to stand behind your comments, or keep them to yourself.
Comments regarding this policy may be directed to Mike Juby at mikejuby@usawks.com.
I accept the Board Rules.
Nether do a lot of other!
Having "no dog in this fight", I nonetheless decided to weigh in after Cokely reminded me of 1wrestle's earlier remarks.
Keenly aware that 1wrestle would never do anything to "tarnish the freedom of speech", he professes to so cherish (as Cokely reminded me), I decided to "waste a little more oxygen", and suggest to 1wrestle that, from my vantage point, Mr. Luedke appeared to be simply exercising that "freedom of speech", which 1wrestle so cherishes.
I'd also note that by virtue of Mr. Luedke disclosing his name to his post, that he, at least, in some measure, has the courage of his convictions.
By 1wrestle's earlier remarks, it strikes me that, in 1wrestle's estimation, "freedom of speech" is only "tarnished", when someone is "moronic" enough to disagrees on a matter with the patriotic and intellectual poster known to this post as "1wrestle".
O, and by the way 1wrestle: Svo69 is not slang for moron.
Here are Cody Bickley’s career results as Head Coach at Fort Hays State University:
2000-2001 (6-7-1), Nationals- 40th-0 All-Americans
2001-2002 (6-5), Nationals-21st-1 All-American
2002-2003 (7-5-2), Nationals-24th-1 All-Americans
2003-04 (10-4), Nationals-10th-3 All-Americans
2004-05 (6-6-1), Nationals-22nd-1 All-Americans
2005-06 (9-3-1), Nationals-11th-3 All-Americans
2006-07 (7-6), Nationals-14th-3 All-Americans
2007-08 (6-6), Nationals-24th-1 All-Americans
Coach Bickley is 57-42-5 as the head wrestling coach of FHSU. With a winning percentage of 57/104=.548.
Presently, he sits in 3rd place as the most losing coach in FHSU wrestling history.
I messed up on the average team placing under Bickley earlier. Assuming they got 40th place in 2001. Under Bickley, FHSU average finish at D II Nationals is 21st place.
He has coached only 13 All-Americans in 8 years! And No NATIONAL CHAMPIONS!
The RESULTS speak for themselves. Its time for change! And its time for FHSU to become dominant!
You want a Division I program in Kansas? Lets field two extremely dominant Division II programs. It will only help KANSAS with every aspect of the sport. Success starts with the coach, he is the one held accountable, and he is the one that has to persuade the Administration and boosters to give support. Guaranteed, the more successful a program is the easier it is to raise money.
Let’s quit waiting and hoping. MAKE IT HAPPEN!
Holliday Hays,
Very nice response. I am glad the wrestling atmosphere is respectable and people like you are giving their time to help. In the future, if the current coach ever steps down or doesn’t have his contract renewed, I would hope you would continue your support. That goes for everybody. I support Bickley and his wrestlers. Unfortunately I, along with many others, don’t think FHSU will reach the top with Cody Bickley at the helm.
In regards to Bickley being the most winning coach in FHSU history. His career dual winning percentage is only .548. That isn't very good at all. Especially, with the talent he has had to work with. He is also about 4 years from becoming the most losing Coach in FHSU history as he is 19 losses away from accomplishing this negative milestone.
One thing to think about is would you rather wrestle for a coach that accomplished being a national champion or a coach that never even earned all-American status? Bickely never got it done in college as a wrestler or a coach and has had 8 years to try as head coach. It’s not a “dagger” I am throwing at him as a person.
I am just stating factual results.
It is time for a change!
Maybe keep Bickley around as a teacher or Associate to the AD but he hasn't got the job done. Money and scholarships is a factor. BUT REGARDLESS, Bickley coached teams haven't performed at the end of the year. That is what matters, that is what people remember. Results at the NATIONAL TOURNAMENT are what you use as a wrestling program to sell kids on coming to FHSU. That is what you use to help raise money for the program.
Sincerely, Eric Luedke
ericlued@hotmail.com
(785) 443-3001
This will be a cowardly anonymous post with zero credibility.
I have at least 2 dogs in this fight. One, I am an alumni of FHSU and a fan of its wrestling program. Two, I know Coach Bickley and his wife, and I am proud of the way they represent my university.
In my very humble and inconsequential opinion, firing a good person is not something that should be done on a lark. Coaches tend to be treated very much like commodities and I'm sure they know that's part of the territory, but it seems a little cavalier to say that you went to a tournament and didn't like the product, so here's the number for us to call and get him fired.
Without being negative to any person, place or thing, and in as nice of way as possible, what is the motivation for this post?
We shouldn't be using this forum to go head hunting people. Especially not people like Coach Bickley.
Feel free to delete if necessary.
Windjammer
I also think Eric Akin would be an excellent choice. I don't know coach Bickley, I am sure he is a good guy but he is not getting results. He has good talent and isn't doing much with it.
Sometimes change is good, I think 8 years is long enough. If Bill Self at kansas had that kind of record would he even last 8 years?
Tom Baughman
Just be careful when you start making comments or statements.
Defamation, Libel & Slander: Overview
Defamation is a legal action sounding in tort based on an intentional or reckless public false statement that injures another person's reputation. Libel and slander are types of defamation. Generally, libel is defamation in print and slander is spoken defamation. Court cases have blurred the line between libel and slander, however. Defamation is governed by state statutes or common law. To find defamation statutes for a particular state, go to MegaLaw's state law pages and conduct a statute search.
This topic came up last night on the national news about people making statements about individuals on the internet or in writing.
Sean McCarthy
Eric,
Let me begin by saying that I don’t know you personally but I have watched you compete a number of times and even coached against you as an assistant under Joe at Labette in 2005. I have always respected both the way you took care of business on the mat and the way you carried yourself off of it. Being a proud Kansan myself, I also took a lot of pride in your accomplishments throughout your career and I will continue to do so as long as it continues. I do wish you the best with everything you choose to take on.
With that being said, I felt compelled to respond on Coach Cody Bickley’s behalf, and namely with your point that since he was not a national champion or all-american as a competitor, he could not lead a national championship caliber program. I can’t help but feel that you’re somewhat off base with this line of thinking. If you are going to make this part of your campaign then there are some things you should understand. I can tell you that Coach Bickley dealt with some major injuries that heavily factored into him coming up empty handed at the national tournament. The details of all that are irrelevant, other than that he did all he could to wrestle through them. During his career he beat numerous all-americans and was a game opponent for whoever he faced. I have no doubt Coach Bickley would’ve accomplished his goals if he could’ve stayed healthy. I know injuries are a part of the sport, but some have more unfortunate circumstances to deal with than others. For the record, this is nothing he ever spoke of to me about. That is not his way. To him that would be making excuses. For some people that maybe true, but not in this case according to those closest to him. I was told about Coach B.’s circumstances on a couple of different occasions by the likes of Bob Smith, Myron Ellegood (teammate & 2X AA and national runner-up for FHSU), Josh Gooch(teammate & 2X or 3X AA HWT for FHSU) and Ben Loggains (teammate & FHSU first DII AA, and one of the toughest people I have ever met). All 4 men would rave about what a tough SOB Cody was and how he made himself that way through his focus and preparation. Coach B. preaches that same focus and preparation to his guys. On top of this, I contest that Coach Bickley is a great teacher of the sport as well, and I feel like I’ve been around some really good ones during my career. However, I don’t want to get into all the details that others have done a good job of covering such as Chas T. and Coach G. The point that drew me in was your belief that a main contributing factor to Coach B.’s lack of success as a coach was his inability to become an all-american or national champion as a competitor.
Before I go into this, I realize that wrestling is different than a lot of sports, and as wrestlers we take pride in the individual aspect of what we do, and that does separate us some, but at the end of the day, it’s about teaching your sport, motivating, and getting the most out of your athletes. And yes sometimes I’m sure athletes take comfort in knowing that their coach has achieved some of the goals they are seeking to, but by no means do I think it is a prerequisite for coaching success in any sport on any level. For example, I don’t think Roy Williams saw too much floor time while playing under Dean Smith, and I’m fairly sure Mike Shanahan never sniffed the NFL as a player, nor did Mark Mangino, Mike Leach, Charlie Weis, or Dennis Franchione ever even played college football. If we need to focus on individual sports more then we can look at mixed martial arts, which has a lot of wrestling ties… Greg Jackson a renowned trainer of MMA has trained 10 MMA world champions, but never even competed at that level himself, or how about Juanito Ibarra who now trains Rampage Jackson, Michael Bisping, and has co-trained Oscar De La Hoya, but also never even fought as a pro and how about boxing the sport of boxing? Freddy Roach who has trained a number of world champions including Oscar and Manny Pacquio, or how about Lou Duva (trained Evander Holeyfield & Pernell Whitaker), both of these men where scrappy but only average to slightly above average in their own careers. Lastly, here are a few examples of wrestling coaches who have had a high level of success without being highly decorated. Mark Leen comes to mind formerly of GCCC and U of Tenn. Chat.(to my knowledge never wrestled competitively in college), Mike Machholz of Missouri Valley has had great success, but I’m not aware of him wrestling at all in college. We could also mention Kevin Klemm, since Aikin’s name has come up on some posts, another phenomenal coach who to my knowledge never was an all-american. Lastly, how about an example that fits right into this DII wrestling discussion, how about Mike Denney. I’m fairly certain he never attained the accolades you’re seeking in a head coach for FHSU and I’m not knocking Coach Denney at all, he is a great man and coach. No one can argue with the results of his program, but I think it helps make my point.
Is being a national champion or all-american an important credential to have as a head coach of a college wrestling program? Sure I guess it could be. Is it the end all, be all of determining who is fit to coach at an elite level and who isn’t? No way. I don’t know Coach Zalesky or anything about his coaching methods, but I do believe he was a 3X national champion at Iowa, and for whatever reason he is no longer the coach there. I know I could make you a list of others as well, but I don’t feel right doing that. My point is that being highly decorated is not a guarantee for success either. Now with that being said, no body wants to be lead by some slug who has never been through the rigors of a college wrestling career. The mental and physical drain that can take its toll throughout a season are things that can be tough to explain to someone who has never had to deal with them, but if you’ve been through it and overcome such things yourself you can better help your athletes do the same. Coach Bickley is battle tested on the mat. His lack of never getting to the podium should not be a factor here, or at least not to me. You can throw out every other stat you like and crunch the numbers however you want, that is your right no doubt. My agenda with this post isn’t to tell you that you’re flat out wrong for what you have posted or what you are trying to do. Although, I do think both Chas and Coach G. along with a few others have made a strong case against your stance.
I think your interest in Kansas wrestling should be commended, and I know it is appreciated by many. Do I think this is the right way to go about showing your concern and support, not really, however again it is your choice. I just ask that if you feel you must continue to pursue this cause that you make Coach Bickley’s lack of all-american credentials less of a focal point.
Again, I do wish you the best in all of your future endeavors, but not with this, at least not in this manner. I will send my email to Hammeke, but it will not be to call for a man’s job. It will be to support my former coach and current head coach of the Fort Hays State University Tiger Wrestling Program, Cody Bickley!
Wrestling
Eight Individuals Represent Fort Hays State On NWCA All-Academic Wrestling Team
March 17, 2008
The National Wrestling Coaches Association released its Division II All-Academic Wrestling Team for the 2007-08 season. Eight individuals from Fort Hays State received the honors out of 133 student athletes selected from 35 universities and colleges. Fort Hays State ranked third in team GPA (3.243), behind Truman State (3.394) and Nebraska-Kearney (3.334). Truman State has now won the Academic National Championship as a team the past two years.
Receiving first team honors for Fort Hays State was Danny Grater. Grater is a sophomore majoring in Technology Studies with a 3.43 GPA.
Receiving second team honors for FHSU were Shawn Kuhlman and Blake Malloy. Kuhlman is a sophomore majoring in Health & Human Performance with a 3.77 GPA. Malloy is a junior majoring in Health & Human Performance with a 3.26 GPA.
Receiving honorable mention honors were Cody Gillespie, Dylan Loyd, Dustin Martin, Kyle Patton and Josh Peterson. Gillespie is a freshman majoring in Agriculture with a 3.79 GPA. Loyd is a freshman majoring in Health & Human Peformance with a 3.21 GPA. Martin is a senior majoring in Health & Human Performance with a 3.14 GPA. Patton is a senior majoring in Health & Human Performance with a 3.22 GPA. Peterson is a sophomore majoring in Mathematics with a 3.24 GPA.
Student athletes nominated for the Division II All-Academic Team must have a minimum 3.00 cumulative GPA on a 4.00 scale. They must also be in at least his second full year at their school, be a varsity member on his team or a key reserve, demonstrate a degree of skill and have a minimum of two letters of recommendation submitted on their behalf.
Source: Fort Hays State Web Site
First of all, I am proud to say I am a FHSU wrestling parent. I have tried not to post - but think it's time!! I could write a lot more but if someone wants to visit with me about my thoughts, I'd love to have you listen. This is not the place to run Coach Bickley into the ground!!
People - maybe it's time to realize there are other issues more important in life than winning a National Championship or Title!!!! We learned the hard way about that and I hope other DO NOT have to realize it the way Danny, Gavin, and I did!!!!!
Some reasons Danny choose FHSU - Coach Bickley and the staff was 100% upfront with him on the recruting trip, HONESTY, gave us his entire attention, the "team atmosphere", a Kansas Team, and there wasn't going to be any surprises throughout the recruiting period. That meant a lot to Danny and us!! I CANNOT say that for other colleges. It also helped that they have a great job placement %% and an excellent career field and teachers for his education.
Danny is going to FHSU for an EDUCATION (a high priority) and doing well if you read that he was selected to the NWCA 1st Academic team and to wrestle. I doubt wrestling nor a national title will not increase his starting pay when he is done with college. Yes, he is trying to work hard for a National Title and I know his team members would also love to win one, as well as a National Championship for FHSU!! He also knows and will tell you, he needs to work harder at this level BUT he does have other committments due to the death of his father too (taking over family farm, adult figure to Gavin, Mom's support man)
I feel it would be best if you would take the time to talk to the FHSU wrestlers - I would welcome Eric to give Danny a call (I know you had his # and have his email)!!! Others, he will be a Districts this weekend and Kids State if anyone wants to visit with him.
My opinion, I totally support Coach Bickley in his coaching efforts and goals!!! He is making my son into an individual that I can say that I am very proud of with or without the National Title!!
You won't find a better bunch of wrestlers than at FHSU. I'm proud when one of them hollar "Momma G, Momma Grater, or Leanna" -- It's truly the wrestling family that I know and love.
Leanna Grater
Leanna,
Well said and Thank You.
Joel,
Thank you also.
i think that should end this topic
This is my opinion. If coach Bickley's team already has good grades and has consistently maintained good grades then maybe he should start to concentrate on improving what is lacking. I personally think that Fort Hays is a good school and im am going to go there next year. This is no way shape or form a diss on Coach Bickley because hopefully I will be wrestling for Fort Hays in 2009-2010 pending on my knee and how it heals from surgery. I will also say this, if winning isn't important then why do they keep score? I don't think that if you lose you are a bad person but i wish that Fort Hays was a very successful team, and was consistently placing in the top 10 at Nationals to represent for Kansas.
Eric:
It's probably not fair to hold Coach Bickley's own college career up against the ones you've been around for the last year. Be realistic; NO ONE could match Zalesky, Brands, Gable, Hand or the rest. No one could measure up that.
This is an interesting topic. Eight years is a long time for the results that the Tigers have had, especially with being the only wrestling school in the state much of that time. With as few wrestling programs as there are anymore, there are a lot of good assistant coaches out there looking for a chance to step into the head coaching shoes. The question is whether or not this is the right place to debate this topic. I honestly don't think it is.
But the most telling thing to me is the post from Danny Grater's mom. No matter what the level, there is no higher honor for a coach than to get praise like that from the parent of one of your athletes. And I agree with her in the idea Eric, that maybe you should talk to Danny or some of the other Tiger wrestlers before you make you assessment.
Jeff Holmes,
Back In Iowa
Talking to the wrestlers themselves won't change the fact that FHSU has never placed in the top 5 at the NCAA Div. II national tournament. Bickley holding the honor as the winningest dual coach in history is huge, but only being that few losses away from the most losses as well doesn't look as good. It means the teams are mediocre at best, .500%.
Also I know the arguement about having a great team GPA should count yes it should, but UNK did win the National Tournament this year and placed in the top 3 academically. You can have the best of both worlds....
This debate is basically pointless until someone defines what is success, and don't tell me to define it, because I really don't know.
Like Gonzo and Leanna, I am also a proud parent of a FHSU wrestler. James had several out-of-state offers to wrestle at the college level, but chose FHSU.
Coming fresh from Norton’s rich wrestling tradition and under Coach Bill Johnson’s guidance and direction, our wish for James was to continue his education and wrestle at a Kansas College with the same family-type environment, hard work ethic, and sportsmanship that Coach Johnson promotes in his wrestlers. This we found at FHSU and Coach Bickley.
The Norton and Hays wrestling fans and community support, along with great coaches, such as Deyton Hager, Bill Johnson, and Cody Bickley all contributed to James’ success on the mat and attaining his “All-American” goal. I can honestly say that these coaches have helped mold and influence our son in a very positive way. My wife and I support Coach Bickley, his staff and their coaching efforts and recognize the contributions Cody has made to the great sport of wrestling.
Bobby Annon
First of all, I'm biased. I roomed with Cody and think the world of him. Great guy, great friend.
I have no problem with people questioning what is best for programs. Usually it comes from people that are actually tied to that program, but it is not always the case. I admire Eric's wrestling accomplishments, but I think it is the way that you've blasted Coach Bickley that is questionable. It appears to be either something personal or a way to get attention for yourself as a coaching prospect. If it's something else, I'm missing it.
Although I feel that Cody is the best person for this job, I'd like to know what better candidate would like this job? Who'd like to put the hours in for such little pay in this part of the state and keep the academic aspect at the high level it is? Recruiting to Hays is only getting harder as the state's best wrestlers seem to shift farther to the east. I know that western Kansas still has some outstanding wrestlers, but for the most part, the best wrestlers are coming out of larger metro areas. These kids don't all want to go to western Kansas to live (although I hope several Goddard boys do).
I've never coached at the college level, but I do know that being a head coach at any level is MUCH more difficult that people realize. It's not just about your knowledge of the sport and trying to teach technique. It's being a psychologist, a parent, a boss, and a mentor.
I think Coach Bickley is doing a great job! He'll have some down years, but he'll still be working to get the most out of what he has to work with. You can't wrestle for them. He'll still represent the university in a way that the alumni can be proud of, and he will be instilling values in the young men that will serve them far beyond their years of wrestling.
Eric (realizing, of course, that you're probably in St. Louis and won't be seeing this for a few days!):
Ryan just brought up an excellent point. If the best Kansas kids have left the state, where have they gone? You went to Iowa City, Kriegbaum to the Air Force Academy, Robeson, Pursel and Akin to (sorry) Ames, the Lawrenez brothers to Cedar Falls, LaMar and the Hoxie kid who's name escapes me to Lincoln and Garcia and Taplin to Omaha. Nothing against the town; personally I like Hays, but it would be a tough place to recruit to. It's out there in relative middle of nowhere, and with the competition out there for the best kids, Hays might be a tough sell.
And while I have no idea what kind of administrative support Bickley's program gets from the FHSU administration, it could NEVER match what you've been used to. Kansas is so lucky to still have an at least D-II school with wrestling (since the D-I schools don't have the stones to add it) and it needs the support of the whole Kansas wrestling community. But make it positive, and make the program something attractive in every way.
You know, I can honestly say this topic caught my eye and before posting I took about a week to think about. I have come to this conclusion..... It is Hays, KS people!!!! I do wish all of our good kids like Garcia, Elliott, Edison, etc. etc. etc. would go ahead and go to Hays but I can understand why they don't. It's an island in the middle of Kansas where all there really is to do is drink and get in trouble by an over barring police force that spends the majority of it's evenings on bicycles trying to sneak up on college kids drinking on the side walk.
I was at Hays for a year. I was coached by Bob Smith in his last year and decided to transfer out after that year. Coach Bickley was an amazing assistant at the time and to this day I still implement a lot of what Bickley taught me in that short year into my coaching style now. I can honestly say my largest wrestling regret in my life was leaving Bickley and Hays. For my life it was the right choice. But for my wrestling career... very bad decision.
This guy can coach. He knows wrestling and he is tough as hell. If any of my kids asked me if I thought Hays was a good choice I would 100% confirm it!!! Is 8 years a long time.. to some. It does not seem like eight years since I left Hays. However, I guarantee that man (coach) has worked his butt off to make his athletes better people, better citizens, and better wrestlers.
Recuiting is hard in the college business. Especially when you are trying to sell Hays to a bunch of kids who are living in a high speed generation and think everyone owes them the world. At this point, Hays has a good coach. He might want to use this as a wake up call and start making some changes but overall... He is doing a good job and I support him 100%!!
Now get your butt too work and put that team back in the top ten and shut these people up!!!!
bickley probally wouldn"t want a face to face with luedke he would get the smack down
HA! Great post Church, the Younger. Seriously, I enjoyed it and you brought up many excellent points. Thanks for sharing.
On a personal note - I'm curious as to where you went AFTER Hays and how it worked out for you? If you don't care to share, that is cool. Or, PM me. I just like hearing/learning from others.
Take care.
You know, I can honestly say this topic caught my eye and before posting I took about a week to think about. I have come to this conclusion..... It is Hays, KS people!!!! I do wish all of our good kids like Garcia, Elliott, Edison, etc. etc. etc. would go ahead and go to Hays but I can understand why they don't. It's an island in the middle of Kansas where all there really is to do is drink and get in trouble by an over barring police force that spends the majority of it's evenings on bicycles trying to sneak up on college kids drinking on the side walk.
I was at Hays for a year. I was coached by Bob Smith in his last year and decided to transfer out after that year. Coach Bickley was an amazing assistant at the time and to this day I still implement a lot of what Bickley taught me in that short year into my coaching style now. I can honestly say my largest wrestling regret in my life was leaving Bickley and Hays. For my life it was the right choice. But for my wrestling career... very bad decision.
This guy can coach. He knows wrestling and he is tough as hell. If any of my kids asked me if I thought Hays was a good choice I would 100% confirm it!!! Is 8 years a long time.. to some. It does not seem like eight years since I left Hays. However, I guarantee that man (coach) has worked his butt off to make his athletes better people, better citizens, and better wrestlers.
Recuiting is hard in the college business. Especially when you are trying to sell Hays to a bunch of kids who are living in a high speed generation and think everyone owes them the world. At this point, Hays has a good coach. He might want to use this as a wake up call and start making some changes but overall... He is doing a good job and I support him 100%!!
Now get your butt too work and put that team back in the top ten and shut these people up!!!!
The fact that Hays is in the middle of nowhere is a pure BS excuse. You want middle of nowhere? Travel 6 1/2 hours northwest of Hays to Chadron, Nebraska. Chadron State seems to be able to get quality wrestlers. And last I checked, Kearney wasn't exactly Las Vegas, Nevada as far as entertainment. In fact they're hours from the nearest town of any significant size (Lincoln).
Again I must ask, why does the roster not include more JUCO transfers from 4 of the top JUCO programs in the nations? Surely with such a wealth of talent less than a stone's throw away, you would take advantage of it instead of letting them get away.
Baldridge, Elliot, Adilov, Sutton-Kearn, Kumbarov, Edgmon, Gilliland, Shippers, Dennis, Garcia, Prater all come to mind that would've or would make a great addition to the FHSU team, and several I've spoken with said they have haven't been contacted by FHSU about transferring.
I must ask why not use such a valuable resource?
maybe FHSU doesn't have any scholarships to offer them, or maybe they want guys who will be with their program for 4-years, or maybe these guys don't meet the apparently strict academic standards at fort hays
I transfered to Carson-Newman College in Jefferson City, TN. Had a great group of work-out partners in Olympic Bronze Medalist Lazaro Reinoso (beat John Smith in 88 at Barcelona) and Tony Morgan 2 X All American from Oklahoma. Great college experience. Never All-American but got to stretch my college wrestling career from 5 years to 6 years.
maybe FHSU doesn't have any scholarships to offer them, or maybe they want guys who will be with their program for 4-years, or maybe these guys don't meet the apparently strict academic standards at fort hays
Why wouldn't you take a guy who can come in right away and make an impact? I guarantee you that Baldridge could have started & earned big points for FHSU at 133 this year... Prater could have started at 149, Gilliland had a good shot at 149 as well... Why not take a sure thing & give your younger guys a chance to develope around proven talent? I think you'd be stupid to turn your back on people who already proved they have what it takes at the next level... I'm 100% sure it wouldn't hurt the practice room having them.
Alex, Did Baldridge, Prater and Gilliland want to wrestle for FHSU and were turned down or not get recruited? I know they (Bickley and FHSU) have taken wrestlers from the Junior College ranks before! (Patton, Phillips, Jobe are a few that immediately come to mind)
I don't think we can overlook that FHSU has to sign wrestlers that want to be there! Some will gladly accept an offer from Hays but many will not.
My opinion, FHSU is a great school, Bickley is a great coach! But why haven't we heard of FHSU football or basketball in the last several years? It seems FHSU is a bit behind in those areas too!
I can also think of couple of others, Chas Thompson and Aaron Meister come to my mind, but I feel that there is room for more of our state's proven athletes to stay in state.
I will agree 100% on the FHSU football & basketball teams...
... but do our athletes want to stay in state at Hays?
One definitely needs to look at a two-way street ... kind of like a marriage!
Someone brought up the question of the junior college kids having success (like Eric did) then leaving the state. Well, of course they're going to; FHSU is a D-II program and the kids that win juco national titles and are All-Americans are going to go to D-I programs. FHSU could expand its scope of recruitment in the state and go after that level of kid that could compete at the D-II level (and there are a lot of them out there). The program just needs to be attractive enough for those kids to stay in state.
There is a great model on how to build a program out in the middle of no where with little money, just look north at Kearney. Unfortunately results speak for themselves. If FHSU supporters, alumni, donors, and fans are comfortable with the medicore results and above average acedemics then keep things the way they are. If better performances at the national tournment are what you want then a chnage needs to be made.
I have been reading all of the posts on the subject of a coaching change at Fort Hays. I have known Coach Bickley for quite a few years, and I agree with the comments of how mentally and physically tough Coach Bickley was in his career and how he still is today. His attitude is being passed to each and every member of the squad. The academic results speak to this. I would agree that some changes would be good especially in terms of budget, and promotion of this program and the sport of wrestling at FHSU. He is the right man for the job and his recruiting and results speak more to me as a positive for him as a coach rather then a negative. This program has improved in many ways since Cody took on the head coaching responsibilities and is still improving. I really liked the idea from one of the posts about using your money (fund raising) about a D1 program in the state to improve the program at FHSU. I also believe that some of the posts seriously underestimate the level of wrestling at the D2 level. Very few wrestlers step in their first two years and dominate.
Coach Sweet
Trojan Wrestling
I didn’t want to get involved since I am a FHSU wrestler but I am tired of seeing this topic of FHSU needs a change. I stopped reading this post because it really frustrated me because not only is Coach Bickley my coach but he is my practice partner. He has taught me how to be a better wrestler, student, and all around person on and off the mat. But now you have posted this article in our FHSU paper. I really don’t think that this was appropriate for all the students to read but that is just me. What are you going to do next start putting up signs around Kansas about us? I think that you have tried to make a point that a lot of people don’t agree with. I wish that you would have never gone about this the way you did. If you had a problem then you should have went to coach.
Dustin Dooley
I dont have a dog in this fight but I'm not really following when everyone says Eric should have gone to the coach directly. Going to the coach directly wouldn't solve anything. Eric sees the results and believes they should be better. Obviously Coach Bickley does not see the need for change or he himself would leave. A conversation between the two would solve nothing.
I am not commenting on whether change is needed or not, I really don't know. But I really feel all Eric is doing is demanding excellence. If the fans, boosters, administrators, etc. begin to view the results as unacceptable thats how change taking place, leading me to believe this not an inappopriate way of going about things. Maybe Eric is right, maybe hes wrong, I don't really know, but I'd hate to see a guy faulted to much for refusing to settle for mediocrity.
I only wanted to stir the pot once about what I thought. I wrote that like two weeks ago. Sorry, to stir the pot again. It should of been published the same time I started this topic. I think it is just my intial post. They probably are just getting it in the paper because of spring break. I have learned that alot of people respect Bickley a ton which is great. You got four years to kick some butt, win titles and prove me dead wrong. Make it happen!
I wish FHSU wrestling the best! I am done posting on this topic and think I got a lot accomplished. I brought light to a topic I believe needed addressed and that was my mission. I believe a lot more people within the state and University will be paying a little more attention to the Tiger wrestling program next year. Hopefully, it will drive some boosters to donate more!
Thank you all for a the input both ways!
Support the Tigers and do what you can to get them to the TOP!
Sincerely, Eric Luedke
People who throw stones should not live in glass houses. Arm chair quaterbacks never did anything. Vicarious people did'nt either.
I am a former college assistant. I worked my way from a student coach,a graduate assistant to a volunteer assistant coach. I wrestled for Coach James at what was then Central State University out of high school for three years before transfering to FHSU. I will tell you that it has nothing to do with the coaching ability of Cody. Uco has an operating budget of 100,000 plus. Just wonder what UNO or UK has. UCO also has at least 8.5 scholarships. They used to have 9.5 until the NCAA cut it back.
College recruiting, for those that make post's and have never done it is very difficult. There are so many variables involved that it would take several posts to even break ground on the subject.
I would suggest that before you make a comment about coaching that you should have some expertise at the level in which you are concered about.
I wrestled with Cody and was one of his coaches. I personlly carried Cody of the mat after he broke his leg. He finished the match, if that does not tell you something about his dedication and desire then what would. As one of his coaches perhaps he learned somethings from me. Perhaphs I tought him something. And you want to bash him for his coaching abilities. Now you are not only bashing him, you are bashing me as well and every other coach that has had something to do with Cody.
I would suggest to you that you become a college coach and then you can speak your mind.
Dave Hull
I am sorry I will let this go. Just one more post. This tread never shouls have even made it one day before being removed. It is this kind of negative, inexpereanced, uneducated posts that make life as a coach miserable. Somebody always thinks they know more or thinks they are better. Yet they do not have the experiance. Why not try to help the program. Send your kids there. Help promote the program. HELP IT BECOME WHAT YOU WANT. Do not bash it.
Dave thank you for your comments. I think coach is really good at what he does: recruiting, coaching and wrestling. He is not only my coach or my friend but I look at him as a father figure.
Just one more thought for our friend. UCO, enrollment of about 17,000 + UNO about the same. UCO one full time assistant two GA's and a couple of student coaches. UNO same. FHSU enrollment about 5000. One GA and a couple of assistants. Who has the advantage. If you want to stir the pot then help FHSU get a full time assitant and more GA's.
Once FHSU has what they need to fullfill your wishes; should they fall short, then you will have a leg to stand on.
Four years and owe you? FHSU nor any other school in the country owes you jack in a hat. IF anything Mr. FHSU fan and supporter you owe FHSU.
Oh and by the way, you did not stir the pot for anything positive all you did was irritate people who have and are trying to make a difference by supporting a program.
suplay1 wrote "Just one more thought for our friend. UCO, enrollment of about 17,000 + UNO about the same. UCO one full time assistant two GA's and a couple of student coaches. UNO same. FHSU enrollment about 5000. One GA and a couple of assistants. Who has the advantage. If you want to stir the pot then help FHSU get a full time assitant and more GA's."
Get real, all the guy did was state FACTS. He gave hard numbers that support his case. He IS the winningest coach in FHSU history, but he's also very few losses shy of also being the LOSINGEST coach in history. Luedke says "Coach Bickley is 57-42-5 as the head wrestling coach of FHSU. With a winning percentage of 57/104=.548" That statement speaks for itself.
Defend him as a person all you want, no one is questioning him as a man, they are questioning his coaching style/results. Defend the numbers he has posted, this is what the whole post is about, the facts, not his integrity as a person.
Suplay -
"Once FHSU has what they need to fullfill your wishes; should they fall short, then you will have a leg to stand on.
Four years and owe you? FHSU nor any other school in the country owes you jack in a hat. IF anything Mr. FHSU fan and supporter you owe FHSU.
Oh and by the way, you did not stir the pot for anything positive all you did was irritate people who have and are trying to make a difference by supporting a program"
What the heck does this all mean? Dont attack someone who has just stated his opinion, and coming from someone with his legite credintials, we can respect them, we dont have to agree but you have no right to bash him in this manner. Get a clue, we all want FHSU to succeed, we just have different ways of supporting it.
YOU WANT THE SAME RESULTS, KEEP DOING THE SAME THINGS..
Tim King
Coaching is kind of like officiating. It looks easy enough until you’re the one doing it. If you want to be the best you have to constantly critique what your doing and figure out how you can make things better. I have known Cody for many years on many different levels and I feel comfortable saying Cody is constantly critiquing himself. He has made many changes and is searching for the success we would all like to see. Cody has done many of the things some people on this forum have blasted him for such as heavily recruiting NJCAA athletes and working tirelessly to raise funds for the program. Some of these funds go into an endowment program set up to eventually fully fund the FHSU wrestling program. Before we talk about replacing the coach why don’t we talk about what can be done to support him and the program. I have wrestled with him, wrestled for him, and coached with him, and I would have gladly given him my All-American accolades his senior year because he earned it as a leader with his die hard attitude. Cody, being a coach comes with being in the spot light both good and bad, keep working hard. All you have to do is answer to the man in the mirror.
Sincerely,
Myron Ellegood
ELLEGOODMS@usd308.com
Let's support Coach Bickley and get him the things he needs to be successful. Firing coaches is not the answer
I was wondering, what do the t-shirts look like for your camp with Saferite at Andover Central this summer?
And I agree, it's not the answer