Manheim, PA - The NWCA/FCA Collegiate Leadership Academy, a transformative event designed to nurture CEO leadership skills in wrestling coaches, took place May 16-17 at the Jon Davis Wrestling Center in Edwardsville, Illinois. The academy brought together a rockstar lineup of mentors, speakers, and attendees to inspire and empower the next great generation of wrestling leaders.
The academy boasted a remarkable roster of mentors who provided invaluable guidance and mentorship to the attendees. These mentors included Jim Gruenwald, Jim Miller, Jack Spates, Mark Cody, Mike Denney, and Travis Patrick. Each mentor brought their wealth of experience and knowledge to the academy, helping shape the future leaders of the wrestling community.
Notable speakers covered a range of important topics throughout the event. Dr. Scott Westfall expertly facilitated discussions, ensuring a dynamic and engaging learning environment. Jim Gruenwald, a guest presenter, shared his insights on leadership and success in wrestling. Mike Moyer, the NWCA Executive Director, delivered a heartfelt greeting and addressed the importance of fundraising. Mark Cody and Mike Denney spearheaded discussions on effective fundraising strategies, while Jack Spates and Jim Gruenwald delved into ethics. Kris Whelen, Jack Spates, and Mike Denney shared their inspiring life journeys, providing valuable perspectives to the attendees. FCA representative Mark Ellis shed light on the role of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes in the wrestling community. Dr. Tom Smith offered valuable guidance on pursuing their administrator's top organizational goals, and Jim Miller, a guest presenter, shared his expertise with the participants. Additionally, Kerry Regner, the NWCA Director of Coaching Development, led discussions on the art of recruiting.
The NWCA Director of Coaching Development, Kerry Regner, expressed gratitude for the collaboration with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and the Jon Davis Wrestling Center, stating, "The NWCA is grateful for our partnership with Fellowship of Christian Athletes and the Jon Davis Wrestling Center which annually hosts our NWCA/FCA Collegiate Leadership Academy. This event is possible because of the success of not just the work of Mike Moyer and Dan Weaver but also because of all the speakers and mentors. As a coach who completed this course a decade ago, this is a life-changing event for all in attendance."
The academy welcomed an impressive group of attendees from various colleges and universities. Among them were Andrew Colborn from Davis & Elkins College, Jeff McGinness from Simpson College, Marquise Camp from Saint Andrews University, Toby Bryant from the University of Sioux Falls, Trica Martin from Augustana College, John Lewis from Trinidad State College, Caleb McElfresh from Missouri Baptist University, Roy Hill from Marymount University, Danielle Martinez from Trinidad State College, Andrea Prise from Bakersfield College, Jake McKiernan from Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville, Colton McKiernan from Southern Illinois University-Ewardsville, Tarkyia Mensah from Schreiner University, Margaret Kermoade from Alfred State, Alijah Jeffery from Fort Hays State University, Khris Whelan from Blackburn College, Ian James from Truett-McConnell University, Kevin Kelly from Vanguard University, Armon Fayyazi from Vanguard University, Tyler Stegall from Maryville University, Frank Johnson from Linfield University, Brett Robbins from Illinois Wesleyan University, and Marshall Petty from Blackburn College.
The NWCA/FCA Collegiate Leadership Academy continues to serve as a beacon of inspiration for wrestling student-athletes, fostering leadership, ethics, and personal growth. The success of this year's event is a testament to the dedication and commitment of the NWCA, FCA, and the Jon Davis Wrestling Center staff.
