The path from athlete to coach is paved with countless lessons in resilience, adaptability, and growth. In a recent episode of the Richmond Elite Podcast, we explored these themes with Trevor Kittleson, the head assistant coach at Wartburg College. Known for his role in shaping successful wrestling programs, Trevor shares his journey from being a college athlete to a revered mentor, offering insights into coaching philosophies, athlete development, and the ever-evolving landscape of sports.
From Athlete to Coach: A Journey of Mentorship
Trevor's journey into coaching was influenced significantly by his father, a lifelong coach, and his mentors during his initial years in the field. The early experiences at Perry high school, where he juggled teaching and coaching multiple sports, taught him invaluable lessons. Even as he stumbled through challenges, the mentorship and camaraderie with fellow coaches paved the way for his future endeavors. The transition to college coaching at Loras College marked a turning point. Trevor learned to build a winning culture and establish a team that respected and trusted him—not just as a coach, but as a person. His focus on deep relationships helped athletes buy into a culture of hard work and resilience.
Navigating the Challenges of Coaching
Coaching comes with its unique set of challenges, whether it's managing different personalities or strategizing to keep athletes motivated. Trevor emphasizes that high school coaching can be exceptionally challenging due to the diverse skill levels present in a single team. His approach combines maintaining high expectations with building strong relationships, highlighting the importance of mentors who guide athletes through personal and athletic growth. One of the toughest aspects Trevor notes is ensuring athletes understand the importance of building good habits early. These habits are critical for long-term success not only in sports but in life. It's about teaching athletes to embrace the mundane and consistently strive for excellence.
The Changing Landscape of Recruiting
Recruiting in today's sports world is dramatically different from even a few years ago, with NIL deals and social media playing significant roles. Trevor acknowledges the challenges small colleges face compared to larger Division I schools, yet he remains steadfast in selling the unique opportunities at Wartburg. The college provides a platform for athletes to excel both in their sport and in their personal lives, highlighting the balance between athletics and other life passions. Programs like Wartburg's demonstrate that success can be achieved at any level. Showcasing athletes like Mo, who has excelled internationally, underscores that dedication and hard work can propel Division III athletes to compete with the best.
Building Lifelong Skills and Relationships
The essence of great coaching lies in being able to see each athlete's potential and guiding them through both triumphs and failures. Trevor underscores the importance of treating each child as unique; each has different needs and requires different methods of coaching to reach their potential. This adaptability is a cornerstone in Trevor's philosophy. Beyond simply building champions, the goal is to build character and teach lifelong skills. Coaches like Trevor are not just shaping athletes; they are developing individuals who will carry the lessons learned in sports into all facets of life.
Conclusion
Trevor Kittleson's journey mirrors the transformational power of coaching—it's not just about winning matches, but about impacting lives. His insights remind us that while the trophies are great, the real victories are the enduring relationships and the unbeatable spirit instilled in athletes. For aspiring coaches and athletes alike, Trevor's story is an inspiring blueprint for building successful teams and championing personal and professional growth. Whether on the mat or beyond, the lessons from wrestling resonate in every arena of life.
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