Mailbag

Dear Editor;

Having devoted the past 31 years to the Minneota wrestling program, this letter can only begin to scratch the surface of all the memories and emotions associated with my time as head wrestling coach.

Wrestling exposes a person's vulnerabilities, strengths, weaknesses, great potential, and character. I’m thankful to have been some small part of that process. During my time as head wrestling coach, I did my best to build, develop and maintain a program that all those associated with it could be proud of.

I have been fortunate to have had the privilege to work with them. Building a program to the level that we aspired to took a great deal of planning, development, and unselfish individuals that did not get the attention or credit that they deserved. I can only hope they know how grateful I am to them.

During my tenure, I had the pleasure of working with many excellent coaches who I owe for their dedication and commitment to the kids. My heartfelt thanks to the wonderful parents, school administration, and community members whose support was crucial to the success of our wrestling program.

My heart was always full because of the opportunity I was given and for what I received in return from the individuals I worked with. I’m thankful for my time as head wrestling coach of the Minneota Vikings, and most importantly, I will be forever grateful to the young men that I had the privilege of working with.

Respectfully yours,

Joel Skillings