Q&A with Coach Toran

Coach Toran gives his thoughts on retiring as a wrestling coach after 35 years.

Q%26A+with+Coach+Toran

Aurora Mangune, Staff Writer

Q: What led you to retire as a wrestling coach?

A: I just felt like it was time to step back and let someone else manage the coaching duties. The time served was fulfilling and my purpose was met.

Q: What did you like most about your occupation?

A: The relationships built and the experiences held with the student athletes and other coaches.

Q: What were the greatest challenges you faced in your career?

A: Some of the greatest challenges were getting the athletes to commit fully to the sport, along with having parents and other coaches buy into the program. Academic concerns were alway an issue as well.

Q: How about your greatest achievements?

A: Winning is the ultimate goal, but building champions on and off the mats/field is the great achievement. Being a positive impact to those I coach and watching them become productive citizens in life.

Q: Do you have any advice to give to Salem students who may start careers of their own in the future?

A: Knowledge and experience is the key to anyone being successful. Developing strong relationships and networking with others is very important. Understanding that everything is not always going to go your way and learning from your failures propels you to greatness throughout the process. Always be willing to get better while appreciating the opportunities that you are afforded will take you a very long way.