Al Witt, born near Charlestown, West Virginia, graduated from Poca High School and West Virginia University where he won the Freshman Tournament and was invited to join the varsity team. An injury, however, ended his college wrestling career. Al subsequently taught at Emerson High School in Gary, Indiana, where he coached football, basketball, wrestling and track. Witt returned to this area to teach and coach at Williamsport High School, becoming the second coach there when he took control of the team. Witt went on to coach the Wildcats for 30 seasons before retiring in 1989. While at Williamsport, Witt amassed 201 victories and 65 losses, a winning record of 76%. During the seven years from 1983-1989, he had one State Champion per year. With eight State Champs altogether and his 201 victories, Witt ranks among the elite of Maryland State wrestling coaches. His team won several Bi-State League Championships, numerous invitational tournament titles, and several district championships. Witt's influence extended beyond the wrestling mat; he taught art and supervised work-study programs at Williamsport High School. Along with Ernie Walters and Don Healey, he started the YMCA Junior League Wrestling Program. Several years later, he was instrumental in organizing the Wildcat Wrestling Club, the first Washington County Junior League program. Witt also coached the first two girls in the county to compete on the boys' wrestling team. Coach Witt was a quiet man at mat-side. Anyone who attended Williamsport matches will remember Witt's trademark sound to get the attention of his athletes. It was a combination of a whistle and "ssst" sound. When they heard that signal, Williamsport wrestlers knew the coach had something important to share. He had a singular intensity that was the source of inspiration to many of his athletes. He also offered guidance to young coaches, mentoring them from technique to the daily planning of practices. Al Witt has been married for 57 years and has four grown children. He has retired from teaching and coaching and currently lives in Front Royal, VA.