Who Are the Iowa Wrestling Coaches?

When it comes to wrestling, Iowa is undeniably one of the powerhouse states in the United States. It has produced some of the best wrestlers in the country, and much of its success can be attributed to the exceptional coaching staff that has been assembled over the years. Let’s take a closer look at who these Iowa wrestling coaches are and how they have contributed to the sport.

The Head Coach: Tom Brands

Tom Brands is a name synonymous with Iowa wrestling. He has been the head coach of the University of Iowa Hawkeyes since 2006 and has had an incredible impact on the program.

Brands himself was a legendary wrestler, winning two Olympic gold medals and three NCAA titles during his college career at Iowa. His aggressive coaching style and emphasis on mental toughness have helped shape countless successful wrestlers.

The Assistant Coaches

Ryan Morningstar: Ryan Morningstar is an assistant coach who joined Tom Brands’ staff in 2010. He was a standout wrestler at the University of Iowa, where he earned All-American honors twice. Morningstar’s technical expertise and attention to detail make him an invaluable asset to the team.

Terry Brands: Terry Brands is Tom Brands’ younger brother and another former Hawkeye wrestler who has made his mark as an assistant coach. Terry himself won an Olympic bronze medal and was a two-time NCAA champion during his time at Iowa. His fiery personality and relentless work ethic inspire wrestlers to push themselves beyond their limits.

Bobby Telford: Bobby Telford, another former Hawkeye wrestler, joined the coaching staff in 2019 after a successful career as a competitor. Telford’s experience as a heavyweight wrestler brings valuable insight to his coaching approach, helping athletes develop their strength and technique in the upper weight classes.

Contributions to the Sport

Under the guidance of these coaches, Iowa wrestling has continued to dominate at both the collegiate and international levels. The program has produced numerous NCAA champions, All-Americans, and Olympic medalists. Their coaching philosophy revolves around a strong work ethic, mental toughness, and a focus on fundamentals.

These coaches have cultivated a culture of excellence, where wrestlers are pushed to reach their full potential while also learning valuable life lessons about discipline, perseverance, and teamwork. They instill in their athletes a sense of pride in representing the University of Iowa and its rich wrestling tradition.

Conclusion

The Iowa wrestling coaches are a group of dedicated individuals who have made significant contributions to the sport. Their passion for wrestling, combined with their wealth of knowledge and experience, has helped shape countless successful wrestlers over the years. Through their guidance, they have not only built a winning program but also empowered young athletes to become better versions of themselves both on and off the mat.