WEST VIRGINIA MAT THOUGHTS
by Dr. Bill Welker
... on Wrestling and the Dedicated Coach
It has been stated time and time again, by experts in the field of education that "teachers"
have the awesome responsibility of molding the minds of America's future generations. This
message also includes wrestling coaches.
However, before we can guide the kids, I believe that each and every coach must first
develop guidelines for his own actions and purpose for coaching.
Now consider the following "code of ethics" for coaching wrestlers:
- 1. I will remember that my ultimate responsibility is
a two-fold one: to develop each matman to his fullest
wrestling potential and to induce a character-
building environment.
- 2. I will not promise my wrestlers anything that can
not be fulfilled.
- 3. I will demonstrate fairness, but at the same time,
be firm in disciplining wrestlers.
- 4. I will not be afraid to admit my mistakes.
- 5. Under stress, I will attempt to evaluate before
reacting.
- 6. I will always strive to improve myself by keeping
up with the latest rules, reading current coaching
periodicals, and when feasible, attending important
clinics.
Many coaches, I am sure, will view these guidelines as somewhat idealistic. And to some
extent, I must agree with them. However,
there are moral goals we should all strive to obtain. We need to understand that our athletes will
have to live with the values we teach them.
Yes, I have made many mistakes in my 10 tens of coaching--but fortunate, with the preceding
"code of ethics" my struggle has been made easier. Maybe, just maybe, they could also help
you.
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Updated July 1, 1997