I am pleased to announce that Cole Schmitt  has been selected as the recipient of the  Dave Schultz High School Excellence Award for the state of Wisconsin. This is another award in Cole's illustrious career, one that has included both USA Wrestling Cadet and Junior National titles, to go along with his 3 WIAA state titles. Cole is invited to an all expenses paid camp at the US Olympic Center in Colorado Springs. 

In 2007 Wisconsin was fifth in membership in the country and this past year our coaches have made a commitment to move to the next level and become more competitive nationally and offer more opportunities for all athletes to train and compete, I would strongly encourage any interested athlete to seek out those opportunities. Our Cadet and Junior camps will be held in River Falls for Greco and Freestyle in July. Any current member is welcome to attend those camps and would have the opportunity to compete for any available spots on the national teams that go to Fargo. The WWF has done a good job in managing the costs to these camps and other available opportunities in our state. If you not aware of the schedule ,please feel free to contact Mike Deroehn or any of our age level directors for more details.

This past year the WWF implemented a grant program that was put into action in 2008, we had multiple requests and accommodated three requests that were directly related to expanding or improving specific programs. I would encourage our board of directors to offer this for next year also , assuming that our funding is available. More information will be made available for this program after our fiscal year end in August.  

I would also encourage all coaches and parents to consider participating in the Copper and Bronze Clinics that are held throughout the year. These clinics are a great instructional opportunity as they offer technique, conduct and coaching philosophy and strategies for all age levels. I can get a very good idea who have completed either of these courses by their actions and conduct at events and in coaching situations, it is worth the time and the minimal expense.

The WWF will be holding elections this fall for the age level positions , i.e.; Kids, Cadets and Junior Directors and the Pairings Director. The age level positions will be voted on at the annual meeting in October and the Pairing Director will be elected amongst their peers with a nomination and vote done per licensed pairing officials in August. 

I want to acknowledge my appreciation and I'm confident that I represent the board also in extending a special thanks to Culvers and Pepsi for their continued support with their gracious financial contribution to the WWF. 

Have a great summer , yours in wrestling : Dave Black