Coach’s Corner: Keith Watson

Coach’s Corner is a weekly column where local coaches share practical advice, personal insights, and valuable lessons from the world of youth and high school sports. Whether you’re a coach looking to lead better, a parent supporting from the sidelines, or a player working to grow on and off the field, Coach’s Corner offers guidance, encouragement, and real-world experience to help you navigate the game—and life—with purpose.

Keith Watson – Wrestling Coach

Coaching Background

Keith Watson grew up a military brat, living in Alaska, California, Florida, Ohio and Maryland. He moved 14 times before graduating from Bel Air High School in 1980, so he played one year of youth football and two years of youth baseball until his junior year at BAHS. At BAHS he lettered in football, track, and wrestling.

After BAHS, he played three years of football at Towson State University until knee injuries became too much to overcome. Keith coached two years of football and 27 years of high school wrestling between BAHS and John Carroll, earning MD Coach of the Year twice and National Prep Coach of the year in 2015. He is a member of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame.

Advice to Other Coaches

Be supportive and assist with sports besides your main sport. Showing love to the other sports will help when you need to recruit from the hallways. Being supportive in general earns a gold star by your name from the administration and parents.

Advice to Parents

Let the coaches coach. If you played, the game is likely different from when you played and good coaches stay current with training techniques, etc. Offer to do help by doing the time consuming things that most parents won’t offer to do. If you feel like your athlete is getting what they need and are having a positive experience, spread the word.

Advice to Players

Focus on the basics, because a solid foundation is essential. Tune out the “noise” from well intended adults and peers that may not have your best at heart. Be a good person, student, team mate and family member. Be respectful and if you’re on time you’re late…but if you’re early then you’re on time.

Coaching Takeaway

Athletics is supposed to be enjoyable. Of course it’s more fun to win than it is to lose, but maintain perspective. If it turns into a discount on college, great….but most of the time it won’t. So just enjoy yourself