Jim Wendler positively impacted the Wheeling athletic program for many years. He was an assistant boys track and field coach from 1984-2001, coaching numerous Mid Suburban League champions and I.H.S.A. sectional champions and state qualifiers. Jim also served as the boys athletic director for 17 years. In that role, Jim oversaw an expanding athletic program that served thousands of student-athletes. As AD Jim also mentored many coaches at Wheeling. Jim served as the tournament manager for many events at WHS, including many I.H.S.A. regional and sectional tournaments. Jim also served as the long time manager of the 16-team Wheeling Hardwood Classic boys basketball holiday tournament. Under his direction the Hardwood Classic grew into one of the premier holiday tournaments in the state.