Sportrait

Sport doesn't build character - it shows character.

That's a philosophy that appeals to Kevin Butz, now in his second year of teaching and coaching at Weyburn Junior High.

"I'm very competitive," Butz admits. "I think working with the kids has helped me to realize sports can be fun."

Butz is obviously making things enjoyable for the students in his successful junior high wrestling program. After coaching just over a dozen wrestlers in its inaugural season last year, Butz had over 50 participants turn out for practice this year.

He also coaches the Cobra boys volleyball team and enjoys working with the athletes for a number of reasons.

"It's an opportunity to see the kids in a different setting other than the classroom," he says. "It's a lot of fun to work with them."

One of his goals is to become the best coach he can in terms of teaching skills to younger kids, but Butz hasn't always been a coach. Originally from Swift Current, he has wrestled, played football and golf and was a shortstop with the first team out of Swift Current to win the Beaver Provincial baseball championship.

Baseball, with its summer skies and smell of fresh-cut grass, was probably his greatest love while growing up, he says, and the Iron Horse work ethic of Cal Ripken, Jr. is among his inspirations.

Now Butz is inspired by his players.

"We're not concerned about conquering the world," he says. "I want them to have as much fun as they possibly can."

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