Coaches Corner – Steve Strange
Steve Strange – Oakdale HS
Steve Strange – Oakdale HS
Sac-Joaquin Section
How long have you been coaching and why did you get into it?
2013/2014 will be my 12th season. I always wanted to be a coach.
What are the goals for your program this season?
For each wrestler to live up to there potential in March.
What wrestlers on your team are you expecting big things from this season?
State medalist: Nico Colunga
State qualifiers: Max Stevens, Trevor Williams
Impact returners; Tanner Reeves, Logan Eaton, Frank Trent
Incoming freshman: Cody Williams, Abel Garcia
How’s your relationship with your wrestlers?
I enjoy their success; hopefully they appreciate what the program has to offer.
How would you describe a typical week of practice during the season?
We focus on getting wrestlers ready for the upcoming competition and the post season by continuing to make improvements individually. Hopefully the coaching staff can provide a motivating and intense training environment.
Who do you think is the best wrestler(s) to have ever come out of your high school?
Rudi Burtschi 2x CIF State Champ,
Matt Cox 1st and 2nd at CIF State and Pac-12 Champion for Cal Poly
Trevor Machado Ching CIF State Champ as a freshman
Shane Tate 3x CIF State Medalist
Trent Noon 2x CIF State Medalist, JC National Champion
What advice would you give to those coaches who are barely starting a wrestling program?
Make sure your expectations for wrestlers and parents are very clear. Get your feeder programs in place. Surround yourself with good people.
What is the answer to having a successful wrestling program?
Getting wrestlers to buy in to your program and give 100% commitment to being their best. A feeder program, great coaching staff, talented wrestlers, and a little luck.
What advice would you give a high school wrestler who is considering wrestling in college?
1. Spend the time in the books to be exceptional in the classroom.
2. Don’t give anyone too much respect.
3. Start thinking about your future after wrestling
What is your favorite vacation spot?
Maui
What is your favorite TV show?
Mike & Mike in the morning on ESPN
What is one thing that most people don’t know about you?
Is there anything else you’d like to mention about your wrestlers or your program?
We can’t wait for the season to start.
