Featured Fathers

Jeff Warrick, coach for the Iowa State University diving teams, says that although being father can sometimes be a lot of work, it has been one of the most rewarding experiences in his life. Not only is Jeff a father, husband and ISU coach, he also coaches an age-group diving club almost year round and runs a summer diving camp at ISU.

Jeff and his wife Kathy have a 4-year-old daughter Elyse, and are expecting their second child. “When Elyse was born, I didn’t get to golf as I had been accustomed to doing in the summer, but the things I have given up seem petty in comparison to the things I have gained. I hope that my children will have many fond memories of their childhood and will be able to create many fond memories with their own children someday. But my greatest hope is that they will put their faith in Christ and live their lives accordingly.”

Jeff gets as involved in Elyse’s life as he can, “I help get Elyse ready in the mornings by making breakfast, helping her dress, and walking her to pre-school. At night time I generally put Elyse to bed which usually involves reading several books and saying her bedtime prayers.” Jeff finds being involved with Elyse’s life very rewarding and challenging. “The biggest challenge that I face with being a father, is remaining consistent with discipline no matter what day or time it is and no matter how tired or busy I am.”

Jeff gives a lot of credit to his father Max for being a wonderful role model for him on how to be a good father. “I hope that I can be as good a father to my children as he was for my sister and me. I’ve only been a father for 4 years, so I definitely don’t have all the answers. However, I see many fathers who basically ignore their children and focus on their careers. On the other hand, I also see fathers and mothers who spoil their kids rotten and make their kids the center of their worlds. I think that fathers need to spend quality time with their children. They should tell their children that they love them and then display that love through their actions. But a father needs to love his wife first and foremost."