As members of the Flandreau High School wrestling team, we want to speak up about something that means a lot to us.

Coach Wade has been a huge part of our team, our progress, and our everyday lives. He shows up for us, pushes us to get better, and teaches us lessons that go far beyond wrestling. He doesn’t just show wrestling moves, he teaches discipline, hard work, and how to handle tough situations both on and off the mat. He believes in every one of us, and his energy makes us want to work harder and stay focused. You can tell he truly cares about us as athletes and to us it feels like we’ve lost someone we respect and trust, someone who helps us stay motivated and confident in what we do.

It feels like a big piece of our program is missing. We know how important good mentors are for student-athletes. Having someone who consistently shows up, supports us, and helps us grow makes a huge difference in the way we preform and carry ourselves.

We, the wrestlers, want to do what we can to bring Coach Wade back. We’re asking the Flandreau School Board and everyone involved to please reconsider and reinstate our volunteer coach. We honestly believe it’s what’s best for our team, our program, and our futures.  

By signing this petition, you’re standing with us—the athletes—and supporting someone who has helped us become better wrestlers and better people.   


Thank you for listening to our voices and supporting our team.