Jamestown coach resigns 3 weeks after gun incident

Talk about it

JAMESTOWN — Jamestown College wrestling coach Cisco Cole resigned on Thursday, bringing an end to a tumultuous three weeks for him and the school.

The resignation stems from an incident that occurred in his home on July 26 that resulted in Cole pleading guilty to disorderly conduct, a misdemeanor.

The college continued to back Cole, who had a successful run as both the Jimmies’ men’s and women’s coach, up until he submitted his resignation on Thursday morning.

“Clearly, this was going to continue to be a distraction to both of the teams and this school and instead of having this constantly hanging over everybody’s head, I chose to remove myself and hope now everyone can move forward,” he said. “I can’t say enough about the support and the people that backed me at Jamestown College. The support I got from my family and the school meant a lot to me.”

He does regret the actions that led to his resignation, which involved discharging a firearm in his basement during a verbal dispute with his wife.

“I’m grateful that the truth came out with what I was really charged with. I’m thankful that the truth came out in that there was no felony, no endangerment of my children. But I take full responsibility for the mistake I made. It was a severe error in judgment. It’s not something I am going to forget, nor should I,” Cole said. “I have to live with the consequences.”

Cole said he was not pressured into resigning, but realized there was a cloud hanging over the program.

“I didn’t come to this decision because I felt pressured at all, in fact, I had some people try to talk me out of it, but like I said, I think this is the best road for everybody,” he said. “Some people may not think so right now, but there are definitely people that do.”

Cole had been the men’s head coach since 2007, and then started the women’s program from scratch a year later. Both teams were ranked in the top 20 in the country last season, but the demands of running two varsity programs took a toll.

“I wasn’t putting my family first and I think that’s something I need to correct,” he said.

Jamestown College Lawrie Paulson was grateful for Cole’s contributions to the school.

“We thank Cisco for his years of commitment to Jamestown College and wish him well as he pursues other interests,” he said.

Leaving the school, especially with the new school year beginning Monday, was a tough call, but in the end, the right one, Cole said.

“I just personally think enough negative light has been shed. Couple that with the fact that I am feeling a bit burned out, this seemed like the right decision at this time,” Cole said. “Jamestown College stood by me, and I’ll be eternally grateful for that. I think I did a lot of good things for this college. But for myself, my family, my team, and ultimately for this school, at this point it’s best for everybody to go our separate ways.”

Selvig is the sports editor of The Jamestown Sun, which is owned by Forum Communications Co.

Tags: cisco cole, jamestown college, college wrestling, sports, wrestling