Coaches Corner – Wayne Branstetter
Wayne Branstetter – Poway HS
Wayne Branstetter – Poway HS
San Diego Section
How long have you been coaching and why did you get into it?
41 years – Junior College Coach suggested it and the “light went off!”
What are the goals for your program this season?
Win the CIF, Master’s and STATE MEET.
What wrestlers on your team are you expecting big things from this season?
Ray Cordova – 108 Freshman
Scotty Kiyono – 115 Freshman
Manny Lair – 122
Kimo Dial – 128
Ralph Tovar – 140 or 147
Sergio Enloe – 147 or 154
Cody Doyle – 154
Colt Doyle – 160
How’s your relationship with your wrestlers?
Great – like sons
How would you describe a typical week of practice during the season?
Lift or run early in the day. 2 hour practice after school. Possibly work out on Saturday if there’s no tournament.
Who do you think is the best wrestler(s) to have ever come out of your high school?
Difficult to answer….
Some good ones.. Brody Barrios, Paul Baird, Todd Schavrien, Andy Kim, Joe Baker, Pat Payne, Andrew Gharst, Aaron Gharst, Colton Nichols, Fred Wong, Shane Rosselle, Ian Daube, Henry Yorba, Victor Lopez, Stevie Cervantes,
old timers – Glenn Martins, Bob Connolly
Norm LaCombe, (Those are names off the top of my head – many more).
What advice would you give to those coaches who are barely starting a wrestling program?
Develop a relationship with the kids.
The rest is easy…
What is the answer to having a successful wrestling program?
It’s a MYSTERY! ha – Dedicated coach who love’s the kid’s and the sport of wrestling, knowing that it will “change” their life for the better.
What advice would you give a high school wrestler who is considering wrestling in college?
Better have good grades and lots of “perseverance” and a never give up attitude.
What is your favorite vacation spot?
MONTANA – I was born there and I’m an avid hunter and FISHERMAN.
What is your favorite TV show?
Duck Dynasty!
What is one thing that most people don’t know about you?
I enjoy great movies that are meaningful and powerful. I also will go to plays. ( I have an “artsie” side) and I’m a devout Christian.
Is there anything else you’d like to mention about your wrestlers or your program?
“After it’s all been said in done, there’s a whole lot more SAID than DONE!” Your actions will define you.
