Damon Parker
Age: 38
Teacher, Coach and Mentor
Auburn-Washburn USD 437
Damon Parker is committed to the development and advancement of his students and athletes. Under his coaching leadership over the past nine years, the Washburn Rural High School wrestling program has broken every team and individual school record previously held, while maintaining 1st Team All-State academic status. The program has grown from 19 student-athletes to over 70, and this year Damon will coach the first girls wrestling program with 64 female wrestlers.
Damon has received nine coaching awards during his career, including 6A State Coach of the Year in 2018. Since moving to the capital city in 2011, Damon and his family have found their “home” here.
“Leadership is recognizing that everyone
around you is as powerful as you, as brilliant as you,
and has the same capacity for greatness.”
What brings you joy?
The gratitude I have for everything in my life is what brings me joy. I am fortunate enough to spend every day with students that provide me with equal parts laughter and inspiration, I love my community, and I’ve got a beautiful wife and two kids at home that support me every step of the way. I lead a joyous life.
What do you hope your legacy will be?
As we depart, I often tell my students, “Leave everyone and everything better than you found it.” It is my hope that when I move on, people will say that I did the same.
Best advice you have received?
There are three things in this world you can never get back: an arrow spent, a word said, and time wasted. So, aim carefully, spend your time wisely, and be kind to everyone, for every person is fighting a tremendous battle that you could never possibly hope to understand.
