Meet The Coaches - Empire Wrestling Academy

Elite Wrestling Coaches. Proven Results.

Our staff includes Division I All-Americans and college-level wrestling staff dedicated to building disciplined, resilient athletes.

Why Our Coaches Make the Difference

Wrestling is a sport where coaching matters. At Empire, every coach brings elite competition experience, proven results, and a commitment to helping young athletes grow on and off the mat. Parents trust us because our staff is made up of elite wrestling coaches who have wrestled -and won -at the highest levels.

Meet Our Elite Wrestling Coaches

Each of our coaches brings unique expertise to Empire Wrestling Academy. Together, this Division I wrestling staff builds a culture of discipline, respect, and continuous growth. Explore our youth wrestling coaching bios below to see how our team supports every athlete’s journey.

More Than Wrestling

While our staff has competed at the highest levels, their focus is on building well-rounded athletes. Empire coaches emphasize discipline, accountability, and resilience -qualities that prepare kids for success far beyond the mat.

Families Who Found Their Fit

Parent of Jr. Titan

The coaching staff understands kids as people first.

Wrestling skills come with life lessons.

Parent of Elite Member

Every coach brings energy and expertise. They push athletes, but also believe in them.

    
 
 
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   Jack Magnani 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great tournament last weekend!  Youth eastern states at empire wrestling was a fantastic experience for our entire family. Quick, smooth, and great competition. It’s our second time attending and can’t wait for next years. Thanks again empire wrestling !
  
 
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   Holly Rousseau 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Empire Wrestling Academy has been fantastic! I have two teen sons who have wrestled for a few years and have had various coaching opportunities. They have excelled in the sport of wrestling, having placed at the state level and won many matches. Since they've started at Empire they come home praising   Empire. Every practice they feel challenged.  Every practice the coaches are diligent in identifying if they are partnered up correctly. Every practice the coaches stand by and ensure the techniques are being done correctly. These are a few examples among the many things that stand out with my sons. One of the best things to hear after practice was how much the coaches really care about the students. Thank you Empire!!
  
 
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   Adriana MacGregor 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We joined EWA this year and our experience has been phenomenal. The coaches are fantastic and the club is committed to providing high quality wrestling instruction as well as an amazing and supportive community of wrestling families.
  
 
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   barron ransom 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I couldn’t be happier with this club. The coaches have not only helped me improve as a wrestler but also as a person. The bonds you form here are truly lasting, and the coaches are fully dedicated to your growth. When you join, you become part of a second family. The club brings together people from across Westchester and even out of state. They also host clinics featuring world champions and other accomplished athletes and coaches who share techniques and insights about advancing to the next level. Overall, this club has been life-changing for me, and I’m confident it can do the same for you if you give it a chance.
  
 
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   Luke Ryan 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Joining Empire Wrestling Academy has completely transformed my wrestling. I went 0-2 at sectionals my sophomore year before switching to EWA and now as a junior I'm now competing with some of the best kids in the state. The coaching staff is phenomenal—they’re knowledgeable, encouraging, and really focus on each member's individual growth. The environment is both friendly and competitive, with excellent training partners who push you to be your best. Since switching I’ve never looked back. If you’re serious about improving, Empire Wrestling Academy is the place to be.
  
 
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   Youssif Hemida 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Empire Wrestling Academy is a great place to train! Great facilities and great coaching. John Degl brings a passion to the sport that is unmatched. One of the best decisions in my wrestling career was coming here to train in the offseason which set me up for much success in college and beyond.
  
 
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   Robert Demauro 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My experience at Empire Wrestling Academy has been excellent. I switched over from another club 2 years ago and it was the best decision for my wrestling career. Empire has the best coaching staff and all the kids in the club help each other get better everyday. Everyone practices together so younger students can get mentored and older students can learn from mentoring. Empire offers numerous clinics and camps so the students can get different wrestling perspectives and learn different technique. All around Empire is a extremely inclusive place where everyone can improve and enrolling in Empire has elevated my wrestling tremendously.
  
 
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   Tina Pote 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I can't say enough good things about my son's wrestling club! The coaching here is top-notch, but what truly sets this club apart is its commitment to fostering personal growth in the young athletes. Beyond just teaching wrestling techniques, the coaches mentor the wrestlers to develop courage, independence, perseverance, and self-esteem. For those who may not have a strong high school program, Coach Degl is incredibly supportive, providing invaluable guidance as he prepares them for college wrestling and walks them through the recruiting process. It’s evident that this club is about so much more than just winning matches; it's about building character and life skills. We are so grateful to be a part of this amazing community that invests in the athletes’ futures, both on and off the mat. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a positive and nurturing wrestling environment!