BOGART, Ga. — Coach Walker Daniel is a wrestling coach at North Oconee High School. He sat down with us to share a little bit about athlete Vera Spencer and coaching.

What do you teach and coach?

Walker Daniel: I have been teaching for 12 years. I teach business education classes. I have been a wrestling competitor and coach for 21 years.

What does the team do in training that are keys to their success?

Daniel: Our entire team works hard, including during the summers, but Vera has gone above and beyond by joining Team Georgia and competing against the nation’s best all over the country.

What is your most memorable win as a team?

Daniel: We had a really great state tournament in which we finished 4th as a team and had a school-record number of placers.

How do you encourage the team after a disappointing loss?

Daniel: By reminding them that their worth is not dependent upon wins and losses, but on their integrity and how hard they compete.

What is your proudest coaching moment?

Daniel: That would definitely be when we finished as state runners-up.

What is the biggest life lesson you’ve learned from being a coach?

Daniel: Just learning that some things are out of my control and being flexible is imperative.

What legacy do you hope to leave as a coach?

Daniel: As someone who improved the lives of others.

What are some strengths of this year’s team?

Daniel: We are really balanced. We have an entire team of kids that are capable of competing with just about anyone.

What are some goals for this year’s team?

Daniel: To win the region and state tournaments.

Who are some key players that you’re expecting big things from this season?

Daniel: Dom Lasher, Aaron Davis, Cole Cano, Wyatt Anderson, and Louden Schnake

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