My name is Kent Wire, I have been a secondary educator in Kansas and now, Oklahoma for almost 40 years. Prior to becoming a school administrator I spent 13 years teaching various classes including Biology, Physical Science, Earth/Space Science, Health and Physical Education. I also enjoyed coaching basketball for 19 years as well served various stints in Track, Golf, and Football. Even though, having served 26 years as a school administrator, If on occasion someone asks me what I do for a living, I proudly say “I’m a teacher and a coach.” After all, other than “Dad,” what could be better than being called “Coach?”
I am certain there are former teachers, coaches, students, and athletes who will wonder at the thought of me lasting 40 years in the public school system. Some might even use such evidence to support President-elect Trump’s claim that public education is a “disaster.” (As an aside, despite my participation as long-time employee, public education is not a disaster, in fact, quite the opposite is true) I must admit with laughter and a shrug that, I too, am surprised I lasted this long. Which, by the way, is one of reasons I decided to write this blog. If you’re interested, please read on.
While attending Midwest Christian College in Oklahoma City in 1978 I decided to become a youth minister. I thought I had a fair understanding of the Bible and had a keen interest in affirming my own salvation and fulfilling the Great Commission to “Go Ye therefore…” During the summer after my freshmen year of college I accepted a part time youth ministry internship at Collinsville Christian Church near Tulsa, Oklahoma. There, I learned I related very well to junior high (the middle school movement hadn’t taken form yet) and high school youth. However, after about a year, it seemed clear that church ministry wasn’t a good fit. It was at that time I started thinking about what it might be like to be a coach. In January of 1980 Linda and I left Midwest Christian College (OK) and headed to Pittsburg State University (KS) to begin the journey to coaching and teaching.
I am writing this blog to any former students and/or athletes who will read it, not as a historical memoir, but as fulfillment of my commitment to “minister.” Disclaimer: readers of this blog have likely seen “Coach Wire” at his best and worst. You have certainly seen my greatest successes because, whatever role I may have played, small or great, my successes are YOU! And, you have witnessed my greatest failures because coaching didn’t always reflect my very best character. In format, I hope to share a teaching or coaching story and a reflection of sorts. Readers should follow with any thoughts or comments, especially when offering a correction or clarification of the facts, etc. Please have fun and enjoy the blog. Please share your thoughts and comments along the way and feel free to share it with other Jets, Rangers, Bulldogs, Tigers, and Comets!
I bet it’s good read.