A few years back, when I was making yet another of my seemingly endless Iowa references, Fanatic — in a weak moment — suggested that I go back to Iowa if I liked it so much.

Well, it took long enough to follow that advice, but I'm finally getting around to it.

Due to an incredible professional opportunity in journalism for my wife we are indeed moving back to Iowa, effective June 1. So after six years of coaching in Kansas, I must take my leave of you all; with thanks and appriciation.

Wrestling is "King" in Iowa and it always has been. On shear numbers, it's twice as big there as it is in Kansas. But here there is something different, and it's hard to but into the right words, but I'm not too far off if I call it a "community of wrestling."

We all have our favorite team, classification, State site, Manhattan wrestler, etc., and at times we all fight like siblings in the back seat on a cross-country trip. But when all is said and done, we're all members of the same family — the family of Kansas wrestling.

I guess it all became clear to me reading the outpouring of support that everyone has shown to Aaron Sweazy. We may all disagree at times, and have absolutely no problem telling each other, but when the chips are down, we pull together.

I've made a lot of great friends here in Kansas. Over my years at Immaculata, Maur Hill (well, anyway) and this past year as an assistant at Atchison I've met a lot of people who truly care about this sport and the fine young people who have commited to it. I'll miss you all.

As for me, I have some pretty good things in the works — but my superstitious nature won't allow me to discuss them in detail. Suffice it to say that I'll most likely be working in the "family business" next winter, among other things.

Rest assured that I'll be keeping up with things in Kansas here on the KWCA website, and who knows, maybe the Bobcat Classic is almost ready for another Iowa school (hint, Scott, hint!). I can be reached on email at matman5775@hotmail.com

Thanks again, Kansas. Keep up the good work.

Best to all,
Coach Jeff Holmes

Good luck in your future endeavors! I hope you do well in Iowa.

On a side note, why did Kenny Compton move down from 215? I wrestled him in the finals of the South tournament and he was really good. I was befuddled, especially after he beat Campbell.

Kenny was a natural 189-pounder. He and we (as a coaching staff) made a decision after Josh Erpelding broke his leg Jan. 31. We thought he had a better chance of placing at State at 189, but luck wasn't with him at Regionals as it turned out.

Good luck Jeff!

So who will be taking over coaching duties now at Atchison? Also what part of Iowa you heading up too?

I was the assistant coach this year at Atchison. Coach Crouse is still the head coach. As for where in Iowa, we'll be near Cedar Rapids in my hometown of Vinton.

Take care Aaron and keep fighting!

Yes, Kansas... Thank you for "Carry on My Wayward Son!"

Coach Holmes good luck and I hope everything turn out GREAT for you. Still trying to get dual-state passed here at the state office. I am hosting a dual - tournament on Saturday Dec.4 2004 and have an opening for
your team. We will even provide you with housing. Send me an e-mail and I will fill you on the details. GOOD LUCK, Coach Robert Gonzales Shawnee Heights Senior High.