All stories are not created equal. Some stories are created to entertain. Others are created for profit. Some do both. However these stories are not necessarily true and often take liberties regarding the facts, deemed unethical by those with character. Unreflective through beginning thinkers simply live a shallow life of gossip.In 2009, the City of Lakeland lost an important individual. James Goetz (Florida) was unjustly scrutinized and driven out. He has kept constant his mouth shut, been beaten and crucified. He has been unable to speak the amazing truth, as it is not a fight he can win. He has too much to lose and has too much to accomplish, which has nothing remotely related to any difficulties arising in Florida. Because of this, this chapter of his life appears closed for over half a decade now. "I never want to look back. There is not good there, only evil (James Goetz Florida)".
Goetz moved to Lakeland in 2004 at 23 years of age, in order to renovate a dilapidated house. Goetz, who did not so much as own a hammer at the time and admits he was fooled (the first of many times- lesson learned) into purchasing the home, had stated he had no business in renovating a house at that time, especially one in such disrepair.
Shortly thereafter, he was married and moved to Lakeland full time.
Goetz did not belong in Lakeland or Florida for that matter. There are certain cultures that do not necessarily mix. A fast paced northerner with lofty goals and aspirations typically do not gel with southern culture.
In an attempt to fit in, he took a job coaching the young men of the Kathleen High School wrestling team. Goetz had never wrestled or coached wrestling previous to this. However, with his professional strength and conditioning experience combined with his experience playing for the University of Tampa baseball team, he (James Goetz Florida) and Coach Dail changed the team from non- existent to a formidable and highly successful force. Goetz demanded all student athletes sign contracts in order to make them accountable for their actions on the mat, in the classroom and at home. He also demanded daily study halls, tutoring (if necessary) and had the team wear shirts and ties to each match. Many of these young men quickly went from failing out of school to honor roll students and became role models in the school and their community. Though Goetz was very demanding, the student athletes always felt they could talk with him about anything...and they did.