Marc Welch graduated from Trinity-Pawling in 2018 and went on to play lacrosse at Hamilton College. While there he earned a bachelor’s degree in Spanish, the subject he currently teaches in the Modern Languages Department here at Trinity-Pawling. Welch also coaches the sports he played as a student: varsity soccer, JV hockey, and varsity lacrosse. We recently talked about his experience coming back to the School as a teacher and coach.
What brought you back to Trinity-Pawling?
Athletic Director Brian Foster ’79 reached out to me and asked if I had an interest in coming back to Trinity-Pawling as a faculty member. I had a great experience here as a student and I wanted to give back to the School that helped shape me into the person I am today.
What has the transition been like from student to teacher and then from player to coach?
The transition from student to teacher has been an enlightening experience in that I have gained a better understanding of the different ways that students learn, allowing me to grow as an educator. The transition from player to coach has been rewarding because I am provided with the opportunity to guide and develop players, not only as athletes but as young men.
What’s been the best part of coaching for you?
The part I enjoy most is the opportunity to build relationships. I have been able to create bonds with players through our many interactions, which I deeply cherish. I have thoroughly enjoyed coaching the same sports that I played during my time as a student. I do my best to pass down all the things that I have learned in my time playing those sports. It is also a new perspective for me as there are different challenges that come with coaching. Overall, I have enjoyed working with the players and have learned a great deal from other coaches, as well as the players themselves.
by Kyle Miller ’18