Matt McFarland Takes the Helm as St. Clairsville’s New Wrestling Coach
St. Clairsville High School welcomes matt McFarland, a proven leader both on and off the mat, as its new head wrestling coach. The St. Clairsville Richland City School district Board of Education recently approved the appointment of the 27-year-old, a 2016 Union Local High School graduate.
A Return to Familiar Territory
McFarland is no stranger to St. Clairsville. I’m very excited to be a part of the St. Clairsville Richland City School District. I’ve been wanting to be there ever as I was there in 2020 during the COVID year,
he said, recalling his time in the district. I enjoyed the kids there. I enjoyed the culture there.
Dual Role: Coach and Educator
Beyond the wrestling room, McFarland will also contribute in the classroom, teaching 7th and 8th grade math. I will also be teaching at St. Clairsville.I will be teaching 7th-8th grade math,
he confirmed. I did my student teaching there and I loved the student body and the attitude inside the school, as well.
did You Know?
Matt McFarland’s appointment marks a important investment in the St. Clairsville wrestling program, combining his coaching expertise with his passion for education.
Building a Winning Culture
McFarland’s track record speaks for itself. He revitalized the Bridgeport wrestling program, instilling a strong work ethic that led two Bulldogs to the state meet last winter. You can see what I’ve done here at bridgeport,
McFarland stated. We didn’t have much, but we found a way to win. When you find the kids that want to do it and put in the work, they will follow you and you will get better. We all have a common goal. We want to be on top of the podium at the OVAC Ron Mauck Tournament and make some noise in Columbus (at the state meet).
If I can find a group willing to do those things, we are going to work towards those goals. Those goals don’t happen without hard work and dedication, especially in wrestling. You’re going to have to love the sport.You’re going to have to love what we do every day … the work, the grind, the running, the wrestling and in the classroom, as well, so you can be an attribute to our program.
Matt McFarland
Staying True to Himself
McFarland plans to bring his authentic coaching style to St. Clairsville. I’m not looking at changing much. I just want to be myself and let what I do be contagious. Hopefully, we can all come together for that common goal,
he explained.
A Decorated Wrestler
McFarland’s wrestling pedigree includes being a two-time OVAC Ron Mauck Tournament runner-up and a three-time ohio state qualifier during his time at Union Local.
Enthusiasm for the Team
McFarland is eager to work with the St. Clairsville wrestlers. I met with the team, accept the middle school kids who were on a field trip, and I am very excited to work with them. In the high school meeting I saw some faces that weren’t on the team last year that I did notice from years prior,
he said. I’m excited to have them back.
Pro Tip
Building a strong team culture requires open interaction, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to excellence. McFarland’s approach emphasizes these values, fostering an environment where athletes can thrive.
A Arduous Decision
Leaving Bridgeport was not easy. it was very difficult to leave Bridgeport. I had several boys – Robert Weekley and Ax’Zavior Santana – who bought into what we were trying to teach them, and it showed as both ended up at the state meet.We put on the Columbia Blue and represented Bridgeport in the best way we coudl,
McFarland reflected.
At the end of the day, the boys have their goals and I have mine. Having to go and chase them is hard, but it is what I want to do. I wish Bridgeport the best.
Matt McFarland
Legacy at Bridgeport
McFarland takes pride in establishing the Bobby Douglas Invitational Tournament at Bridgeport. That needs to remain,
he said. I hope whoever takes over for me keeps it going.
Gratitude and Acknowledgements
McFarland expressed gratitude to those who supported him. My family. My father, especially. He’s been there with me in my coaching passion. I’d like to thank all my coaches at Union Local and at Ohio University. Joel Greenlee has been a big influence on me.
He also thanked former St. clairsville head coach Joel sansone, assistant coach Kyle Solar, and greg Honaker for their guidance and support.
I just hope peopel understand why I had to make the move. I’m going to miss Bridgeport, but, simultaneously occurring, I’m ready for the next chapter in my life and I’m writing the book now.
Matt McFarland
McFarland succeeds David Nelson as the head wrestling coach.
