Letter about… Bring Bart Back
To the Editor,
Just like the kids of the last near two decades, we’ve gone through Chatfield’s Wrestling program and came out a better student-athlete and leader because of Bartels’ coaching ability. Some of the members of Chatfield’s council or board may not always see how things work in the lens of a middle schooler coming in to wrestling with a stomach full of anxious thoughts. I can say that I did, along with the many other cohorts including Coach Viss and 30+ young men ready to work.
Leadership is a dynamic part of the success Chatfield Wrestling has had and is having. This leadership stems from the culture of our coaches over the years. This culture is to work hard in school, wrestling, running, circuit training, and ANYTHING else you do. Travis Bartels holds up the importance of team bonding and group success.
Coach Bartels or “Bart” introduced every young wrestler to the room in a way that made you want to not only come back tomorrow, but come back tomorrow and get better… again. The practices weren’t made for going through the motions and being content. These scheduled times after school were always an opportunity for the team to come together and work towards one goal collectively.
Chatfield Wrestling to myself is and always will be something to look back on and be thankful for. I’m thankful I was able to be coached by Travis among others. Without Travis’ efforts, I can’t be certain I would’ve been able to accomplish some of my personal goals. Chatfield’s Wrestling program would hurt a lot more than most think. I stand alongside Travis as Chatfield Wrestling’s Head Coach.
With concern,
Jake Mandt
Chatfield Wrestling
Chatfield, Minn.
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