Jackson seniors shine in Coach Wachter’s final home meet

JACKSON, Mo. (KFVS) - After nearly half a century coaching Jackson wrestling, head coach Steve Wachter coached his final home meet.

Wachter was an assistant coach for 13 years and head coach for the last 31. He was welcomed with a standing ovation in front of a packed home gymnasium, Thursday night.

Wachter thanked the people who helped him throughout his storied 44-year career.

“It’s a tough moment,” Wachter said. “I’ve been so blessed, being in this school district and the great kids that I’ve got to coach. The administration’s been great. My wife and my family have been tremendous.”

Wachter doubled down in his thanks to his family, especially his wife, remarking about the time he had to sacrifice due to his coaching career.

Another thanks went out to the Indians seniors, who were also honored on Senior Night, a stacked group that helped Wachter temporarily delay his retirement.

“I think that’s the reason I stayed one more year, is because I really enjoyed being around them,” Wachter said. “They’re just a great group and they’re very committed; their work ethic is second to none.”

Of the seniors, Graidy Rice is one of Jackson’s most decorated, with more than 100 wins over four years. Rice credited a lot of it to Wachter.

“He’s played a huge role in it,” Rice said, speaking of Wachter’s part in his success on the mat. “Probably one of the biggest actually. He’s just impacted me as a player and as a wrestler. He’s helped me just to guide me in the right direction, whether it’s mentally, physically, or even spiritually with God. He’s just allowed me to be the best version of myself.”

Kayleigh Milam, Jackson’s first girls state finalist, scored the first victory for Jackson on the night. Milam noted that Wachter was fairly influential in her joining what was at the time a girl’s wrestling program in...its infancy, noting her excitement toward making a run at state again this winter.

“One thing that I just keep reminding myself is that, as long as I’m working hard, there’s not a lot of people that can out-work me,” Milam said.

While Jackson has no more home meets, the season is far from over for the Indians.

Jackson has the SEMO Conference tournament on January 23 and 24, before the Francis Howell Tournament, Cody Greene Memorial Tournament, districts and state.