A Hall of Fame Worthy Coach
Photo by: Kevin Beauchamp
October 24, 2020
As over 1,000 grieving people are in attendance at his beloved father’s funeral, Mr. Chris Rundquist reflects on the impact this man has had on him along with many other individuals.
Not only does Rundquist carry his dad’s legacy of being an accomplished teacher, he carries the legacy of being an amazing coach, mentor and friend. He enjoys living his life following the path his father once walked.
“Being a teacher or a coach and helping kids learn is temporary, but changing someone’s life is permanent.”
In the classroom and on the mat, Rundquist continues to inspire teenagers. He walks into the wrestling room and reminds himself of why he continues to pursue his career in coaching.
He sits down next to a kid that feels unappreciated and forgotten. Rundquist willingly takes this kid under his wing and shows him what a father is meant to do for his kid.
“It’s not all about who will win you a state championship. No matter the skill level, you have to treat everyone equally.” This kids’ name is Pete. Pete does not have a father, but Rundquist is the closest thing to one.
Rundquist ensures that Pete never feels alone whether it’s in time of grief or in time of triumph.
It is the end of the match. Pete’s hand is being raised by the referee. He runs off the mat in pure excitement. He gazes over every fan, teammate, friend and foe in hopes of finding the one man who kept him alive. That man is Mr.Rundquist.
Rundquist congratulates and hugs Pete just as if he had won an Olympic gold medal.
Pete is so thankful for Rundquist; he crafts a pheasant out of wood just for him. Rundquist turns over the pheasant and stares upon a note that reads “Thank you for everything!”
Rundquist is flooded with warmth and continues to touch other people’s hearts no matter the circumstances or fame.
(Like Pete, I want to say thank you to Coach Rundquist for being one of my biggest advocates and influences in my life. You are an amazing man.)
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Payton McClowry • Mar 12, 2021 at 10:37 AM
I love that there is this article to honor Mr. Runquist. He has had a great impact on many people’s lives. I am glad he has joined the football program as a coach, so he can make more of an impact on even more students’ lives.
Alexa Dahms • Oct 29, 2020 at 11:49 PM
This article really brings out the best in Mr. Rundquist. It shows how someone can be more than just a teacher or coach, but someone who can changes someones life and be that positive impact. We all know teachers and coaches are important, but we don’t always get to see behind the scenes. I think this article did a great job in bringing this importance out.
Kara Diedrich • Oct 28, 2020 at 3:16 PM
I am incredibly grateful for teachers like Mr. Rundquist. The divide between teachers and students can sometimes become so great and when someone outstretches their care to someone on the other side–it’s astounding. When teachers take the time away from their already busy schedules to help mentor students, they deserve additonal respect and gratitude from everyone.
Jaden Hackbarth • Oct 26, 2020 at 2:57 PM
I really liked how you made it about the bigger picture, which was the impact on someone’s life. We all know how important teachers and coaches are, but I feel we forget to give them credit sometimes for the people they shape us out to be.
Maggie Mantel • Oct 26, 2020 at 2:17 PM
This article brings light to all Mr. Rundquist has accomplished as it specifies all he as undergone and grown from. As a student body, it is always helpful and nice to know what our staff and teachers are going through, their story, and aspects of life they feel are important.
Natalie Flom • Oct 26, 2020 at 1:55 PM
This was very well written, Evan. I am lucky enough to have experienced Mr. Rundquist both in the classroom and near the mat. He is a great person and I know would do anything for anyone. I especially like that you also were able to incorporate part of his father’s legacy into this also which really adds in pathos.