John Welch’s interest in wrestling began at an early age when he competed on the living room floor with his brother, Charles. He started wrestling officially at North Hunterdon High School under legendary coach Harold VanDermark. John wrestled at Rutgers where he captained the team and he continued his participation as an Air Force Captain winning the Air Force Championship on two occasions. He began his success in coaching at Ridge High School where he earned an enviable record as the Head Coach for eighteen years. His overall record is 209-81-3 including 13 conference team championships and 2 State Group II team Championships. His wrestlers individually amassed an impressive record: 60 District Champs, 28 Region Champs, 7 State Champs and 6-second place winners. Five of his wrestlers earned over 100 wins in their careers. Perhaps most satisfying of all, his two sons, John and Peter, won NJ State Championships when he was their coach. John’s support and promotion of wrestling has made and affect the local, state, national, and international level. From the founding of community wrestling programs, camps and clinics, to the inception of the Somerset Junior Varsity Wrestling Tournament, John has helped hundreds of young men grow through wrestling. Young men have had the opportunity to compete in the international arena due, in large part, to John’s dedication and commitment to wrestling.