In 1992 John Degl was informed by the legendary Coach, Dan Gable, that the Iowa Wrestling team had no space on the roster for him. Refusing to accept the news, John packed up his things and drove from Mahopac, New York to the famed University of Iowa intent on pursuing his academic and athletic career. Once there, John was met by Coach Gable in person who only confirmed the bad news. Undeterred, John showed up for every practice and watched from the sidelines as the team practiced. Three weeks later, an impressed Gable took note of John’s tenacity, and he allowed John to practice with the team.
John went on to qualify for and wrestle at the NCAA Championships for the Hawkeyes, and participate in four National Championship teams, and the rest was history.
Today, John brings the same methods and spirit of Iowa wrestling back home where he runs his own club—Empire Wrestling Academy. From humble beginnings in his parent’s barn to a state-of-the-art training facility in Somers, NY, Empire is known as one of the premier wrestling clubs in the country.
John is married to Jennifer and they have four children and four dogs. (Sean, Jack, Shane & Joy) – (Pudding, Ace, Thor & Paris).
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE & EDUCATION
- 20+ Years of Coaching Experience at the Youth, High School, & Collegiate Levels
- 1991 New York State High School Wrestling Champion
- 1994, 2001 Empire State Games Champion
- University Nationals All-American – 1995, 1996
- 2x Place Winner at Midlands Invitational, Northwestern University – 1994, 1995
- 1996 National Qualifier for the University of Iowa
- Member of 4 National Championship Teams at UI & 5 Big 10 Team Titles
- Head Assistant Coach at Hofstra University – 1997. 1999-2000
- Former Head Coach at Mahopac HS – 2002 Section One Team Champions
- Currently, Owner of Empire Wrestling Academy & Coach at Iona Prep
- University of Iowa, BA
- Mercy College, MS
