John Welborn's East Carolina University teams dominated North Carolina collegiate wrestling from 1967-77. 

Welborn's teams compiled an impressive 94-14-3 record over that span, earned national ranking and recognition, and lost only one match to an in-state opponent.  

At one point, East Carolina captured five consecutive Southern Conference championships.  

With limited resources, Welborn was a skilled recruiter who could also mold and develop talent from within.

At the 1973 North Carolina Collegiate Championships, East Carolina won the 18-team tournament after crowning individual tournament champions in all 10 weight classes.  

As a coach, Welborn was known best for conveying his confidence in his athletes, who in turn, reacted with confidence in themselves.