Doug Parker Wrestling Room Dedication Ceremony (June 9, 2012)
Description:
This video shows the dedication ceremony for the Doug Parker Wrestling Room, which honored wrestling coach and alumnus Douglas Parker (class of 1951). The room is located at Springfield College’s Physical Education Complex.
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Parker served as head wrestling coach at Springfield College for thirty-five years starting in 1955 and concluding with his retirement in 1990. In that span, Parker’s teams won twenty-two New England Championship titles, including sixteen consecutive from 1955-1970. Overall, Parker finished his coaching career with 485 victories, thirty-five straight winning seasons, and fifteen top-20 national rankings. In February 2009, he was recognized as the New England Wrestling Association (NEWA) "Man of the Year" during the NEWA Tournament held at Springfield College. Kathy Scweitzer, director of athletics, opened the dedication by introducing Doug Parker, Dr. Flynn (Springfield College’s twelfth president), and Jason Holder (head wrestling coach), all of whom spoke during the ceremony. Flynn and Holder both discuss Parker’s athletic achievements and lasting legacy. Parker then shares his favorite memories from coaching at Springfield College. At roughly forty-seven minutes, the video cuts to the second part of the ceremony, where coaches, athletes, friends, and family members are invited to share their stories.