***This story was written by Chase Palm, a participant in The Kewanee Voice Student Journalism Program, funded by the Harry Anderson Memorial Trust.
Winning one match or game can come down to luck, but building a strong sports program takes years of work, dedication and passion.
At Kewanee High School, Head Wrestling Coach Charley Eads has put in the work and long hours needed to forge a formidable wrestling program.
As a result of his dedication, Eads recently reached his 200th win as a Boilermaker, something both he and Kewanee School District 229 are celebrating.
Eads said that it was a great feeling to hit a benchmark that hasn’t been attained by any other wrestling coach at KHS.
“I really can’t take credit for it all, as there have been multiple assistant coaches,” said Eads. “Even bigger than that are the athletes themselves. If wrestlers don’t show up, I have no one to mentor,” he added.
KHS Athletic Director Tim Atwell, who used to coach wrestling, stressed how important Eads’ accomplishment is for the entire Boilermaker community.
“Priorto Coach Eads, no KHS wrestling coach had even reached 100 wins. So, this benchmark of 200 wins is very significant, not only for him but also for the school,” said Atwell.
“There are a lot of times that staying at KHS has been tough,” noted Eads. “I’ve spent a lot of hours here in Kewanee instead of at home with my family.” (It should be noted that Eads makes the daily commute from New Windsor).
“The dedication it takes to build teams year in and out is hard to measure other than saying it is a lot,” said Eads. “My choice to stay here has been about the students and the belief that some of them need me to help guide them to the future.”
Eads instills dedication and passion in each of his wrestlers and gives them the tools to succeed. Ultimately, however, it’s up to the athletes to utilize his advice and training.
Alex Duarte, currently a wrestling captain and three-year member of the wrestling team at KHS, shared his thoughts about Eads. “He taught me to be tough not only on the mat, but in life because that’s what’s required in order to succeed,” Duarte said.
Duarte also mentioned that Eads’ coaching style is “intense,” but that doesn’t deter Duarte. “I wish other coaches had the care for their player that he does, because he cares for all of us and wants nothing but good things for us,” Duarte said.
The wrestling team’s other captain, Ben Taylor, said that Eads’ coaching style was energetic. “Eads has his own coaching style that’s different from any other coach,” said Taylor. “It gives his athletes a different perspective,” Taylor said.
Eads’ dedication may be the reason why his 200th win is so celebrated. Coaches need to build relationships with their athletes. That’s the only way these accomplishments can happen.
It’s also good for coaches to remind their athletes that losses happen.
“He makes us remember that wrestling is only a small part of life and losing isn’t the end of the world. It’s more important how you respond to a loss,” said Taylor.
“The fact is, life is hard. You need to stay focused on goals that help guide you and keep you on the path that makes you a better person,” said Eads.
