5/30/2008 1:30:00 PM
The National Wrestling Coaches Association is pleased to welcome back to its annual convention one of the most revered speakers in the country. Lt. Gen. Martin Steele, Ret., of the United States Marine Corps will highlight the annual NWCA Convention presented by Cliff Keen, Resilite, Asics and Crayhon Research in Las Vegas, Nev., June 11-12 at the Excalibur Hotel Casino. The NWCA Convention precedes the 2008 U.S. Olympic Team Trials for Wrestling and Judo held June 13-15 at the Thomas & Mack Center on the campus of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Lt. Gen. Steele’s message is one of power and inspiration and is geared towards the determination and grit wrestlers display. He previously spoke at the 2003 NWCA Convention at the New York Athletic Club prior to the 2003 World Championships of Freestyle Wrestling held at Madison Square Garden. “We’re honored to have Lt. Gen. Steele speaking with us again,” said NWCA Executive Director Mike Moyer. “He delivers a powerful message to our member coaches and it’s surely something everyone will appreciate.” “The numerous decorations Lt. Gen. Steele has received during his storied military career are rivaled by few. He speaks with a power and respect you just can’t miss.” “Lt. Gen. Steele also dedicates a lot of his time to helping Marines transition from the Corps to civilian life. Many of the principles he applies in his practice are very applicable to helping our elite student-wrestlers transition from competitor to coach. This insight will be very helpful in the development of our “Coaching Academy” over the next 18 months.” Lt. Gen. Steele recently retired as President & CEO of the Intrepid Sea-Air-Space Museum, in New York City. He assumed this position after retiring from active duty in the Marine Corps on Aug. 1, 1999 from the position of Deputy Chief of Staff for Plans, Policies and Operations, Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps. He also heads a group called Uncommon Leadership. The group focuses on developing leadership skills that are relevant, measurable and easily transferable to organizational leaders at all levels. “To have Lt. Gen. Steele return is an honor for our organization,” said NWCA President Ron Mirikitani. During his distinguished 34-year military career, Lt. Gen. Steele received the following decorations: The Defense Distinguished Service Medal; The Distinguished Service Medal; The Defense Superior Service Medal; Legion of Merit; Meritorious Service Medal; Navy Commendation Medal with gold star; and The Combat Action Ribbon. Information about the event, hotel room rates & lodging info, event schedules, online registration and things to do around Vegas are available at: http://www.nwcaonline.com/convention.cfm The National Wrestling Coaches Association, established in 1928, is a professional organization dedicated to serve and provide leadership for the advancement of all levels of the sport of wrestling with primary emphasis on scholastic and collegiate programs. The membership embraces all people interested in amateur wrestling. The NWCA, through its organizational structure, promotes communication, recognizes achievement, recommends rules and regulations, sponsors events, and serves as an educational and informational source. Additionally, the NWCA strives to foster the sportsmanship and integrity that are the cornerstones of athletic competition.
Jason Bryant
Lt. Gen. Martin Steele Convention