CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa – Chris Winter, a native of Waverly, Iowa, and a proud alum of Wartburg College, has a profound connection to his alma mater and the American Rivers Conference (A-R-C).
Reflecting on his college days, Winter's journey at Wartburg was about more than just academics and athletics; it was a transformative experience that left an indelible mark on his life.
The decision to attend Wartburg was rooted in family ties and strong connections.
With his mother as an alumna, Winter felt a familial bond to the college. However, it was his interactions with coaches Rick Willis and Joel Holst that sealed the deal.
Their investment of time and effort during the college decision process made Winter feel valued and motivated.
“I didn’t really want to give up football or baseball, so the opportunity to do both played a big role in my decision as well,” Winter said.
A REWARDING EXPERIENCE
Winter describes his journey as a Division III student-athlete as "rewarding."
For him, it wasn't just about victories and championships but the relationships and life lessons he gained along the way.
“I made strong relationships with some amazing people during my time as a student-athlete. I also had coaches who had a significant impact on who I am as a person and what I do for a career today,” Winter said.
Being part of seven conference championship teams (four in baseball and three in football) during his four years at Wartburg provided Winter with a roadmap for success in life.
The camaraderie and support from his teammates and coaches taught him that true confidence comes from being surrounded by a supportive and prepared team.
BEYOND THE FIELD
While Winter's athletic accomplishments are impressive, he emphasizes that it was the relationships he formed that mattered the most.
“The time we spent together and the relationships we built through those championship experiences were more important than any of the trophies we received,” Winter said.
These bonds, which have stood the test of time, continue to be a source of strength and inspiration in his life.
Today, as the head football coach at Wartburg College, Winter carries the core values he learned as a student-athlete into his coaching philosophy.
He instills in his players the importance of team, toughness, humble, hungry, and smart.
These values, Winter believes, are not only the foundation of the football program but also essential for success and happiness in life.
LOOKING BACK
Winter's journey at Wartburg was a crucial stepping stone to his career as a coach.
The lessons he learned about teamwork, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence continue to guide him as he mentors and leads student-athletes.
As Winter reflects on his college experience, he acknowledges the wisdom of a quote from "The Office": "I wish there was a way to know you're in the good old days before you've actually left them."
He encourages current and prospective student-athletes to savor their college days and cherish the relationships and experiences that come with them.
For Winter, Wartburg College was not just an educational institution but a place of development and growth. It challenged him to step outside his comfort zone while providing unwavering support from faculty, staff, coaches, and teammates.
It's a place where student-athletes can relentlessly pursue the best version of themselves and reach their full potential.
Winter's story is a testament to the enduring impact of a Division III education and the values it instills in student-athletes.
His journey at Wartburg College and in the American Rivers Conference has shaped him into the person and coach he is today, and he continues to carry those lessons forward in his career and life.
Don't forget to become a fan of the American Rivers Conference on Facebook @AmericanRiversConference, X (Twitter) @AmerRiversConf, and Instagram @AmericanRiversConference.
About the American Rivers Conference
The Conference dates back to December 8, 1922, when representatives from 12 colleges got together and formed the "Iowa Intercollegiate Athletic Association." Honoring its heritage in Iowa and its expansion outside the state, the American Rivers Conference brand was established on August 9, 2018, to build on the academic and athletic success provided by its legacy, the Iowa Intercollegiate Athletic Conference. The A-R-C has nine full-time members: Buena Vista University, Central College, Coe College, University of Dubuque, Loras College, Luther College, Nebraska Wesleyan University, Simpson College, and Wartburg College.
