Woodford County is not only renown for its distinguished academics, but it also has a reputation for its prestigious athletic programs. The Yellow Jackets are well rounded and dominant when it comes to sports: a solid track team, a record-winning wrestling team, an outstanding swim team, an elite volleyball team, among other strong sports programs. With a variety of strong athletic opportunities available during high school, many WCHS students plan to take their sport to the next level: college athletics.

Behind these successful teams and successful athletes are hard-working coaches that dedicate tons of their time and energy into guiding and supporting their athletes. With the time devoted to their sports and their expertise, most coaches can identify traits that help benefit the athlete and the team in general. I interviewed a coach and asked what characteristics he finds significant in an athlete; characteristics that help lead athletes to success beyond high school.

Brent Courtney is a lifelong resident of Woodford County. Throughout his life, he has played several different sports, including basketball as well as wrestling, which stuck with him for the rest of his life. He has been involved with Woodford County wrestling for over thirty years, many of which he spent as a coach. He has coached countless state placers and state champions.

What are three traits you believe are the most valuable for an athlete planning to compete on the collegiate level?

Discipline, dedication, and responsibility. Without discipline, you’re not going to prepare yourself or stay prepared to compete. Without dedication, you are not going to go the extra mile that is necessary to prepare yourself for the next level of competition.  Without responsibility, you are unable to keep your grades up, you’ll run with the wrong people, you won’t train properly, and you will do things that are harmful to your body.

In your experience, you have undoubtedly coached excellent team leaders. Describe the attributes and responsibilities of a leader.

Leaders are the hardest workers who lead by example, build teammates up rather than tear them down, and do everything that the coach asks of them and more. They can essentially become another coach to the team.

What are some beneficial characteristics that today’s athletes seem to lack?

Dedication, responsibility, respect, and work ethic.