Scott Goodale's Big Decision

There’s a pretty good chance SCOTT GOODALE did not get a good nights sleep Monday and tossed and turned a bit as he contemplates the biggest decision of his professional career. Goodale is a teacher at Jackson Memorial High School, his alma mater and the only place he’s worked since graduating from college. He’s also a highly-regarded assistant football coach for the Jaguars and has been part of some very good teams under head coaches Reggie Lawrence & Mike Smith.

The decision the 35-year old Goodale is mulling over is whether to leave the safety and security of Jackson for the unknown as he’s been offered the position of head wrestling coach at Rutgers University and will make his choice known before the day is over.

The shore has been buzzing over this for weeks since his name surfaced as one of the leading candidates to replace the retired John Sacchi. While jumping from high school to the Division 1 college level is a huge move he seems prepared for such a leap after guiding Jackson to the top of New Jersey high school wrestling in each of the last two seasons. The Jaguars are 156-15 in Goodale’s 7 seasons as head coach and he’s become a respected figure throughout the state.

Less than two weeks ago I spoke with Scott before he left for a national tournament in North Dakota and he was anxiously waiting for the call from Rutgers. It finally came on Friday when he was first told he was the choice to take over the Scarlet Knights program. Over the weekend I ran into his wife and mother on the beach and they were both excited although there were details that needed to be discussed and negotiated. That apparently took place Monday and now the decision rests with Goodale, who is a husband and father in addition to being a coach.

While most assume this is a no-brainer, it’s more complicated than that. Wrestling programs are being cut one after another on the college level and Rutgers just eliminated several sports from its athletic program. Yes it’s Division 1, the big time but there’s a lot to consider. Giving up your teaching tenure and all the success for the unknown. I have no doubt that if given the chance and resources Scott Goodale will succeed and whatever the decision I hope he makes the right one. He’s one of the good guys and is deserving of the opportunity.