Teachers secret to success

Posted on September 26, 2011 , by charley

In the UK Mark Cocker is the deputy Headmaster of Sale High School in Greater Manchester, and what makes him so successful encouraging his students? He puts it down to his decade long wrestling career.

Mark was introduced to Wrestling by his father at the age of 11 and puts his own success with studying and his career down to his involvement in the sport. After completeling A levels which are taken at the ages 16-18, Mark then attended University and gained a degree in Philosophy. During this whole period Mark continued to train tirelessly thanks to the funding he gained from Sport England.

Now at the age of 29, Mark is not only a deputy head but also British Wrestling Champion, weighing in at 18st at 6ft tall. He believes that his pupils respect him as he has such an interesting double life, and an incredible hobby in which he had achieved greatly in.

"Sport gives you disciplin and focus, I know I couldn't be where I am today if I hadn't been introduced to sport at a young age".

Mark competed in the commonwealth games in both Greco Roman and Freestyle Wrestling.

"The best thing about competing has been travelling and learning about other countries. I really believe sport can break down boundaries and create opportunities". Mark narrowly missed out on a medal in India, and is only one of a few wrestlers who compete in both Greco Roman and Freestyle wrestling events.  Previous to his new job Mark was training 5 times a week to put him in great fitness so he could defend his title, now he's going to have to make special time to do so. He believes that his secret life as a wrestler really makes his job as a deputy Headmaster successful, and the kids really find his wrestling stories inspiring.