Biography:
Justin Halaska brings a wealth of experience, passion, and dedication to his coaching roles. A proud alumnus of Parma Senior High (Class of 2013), Justin is a two-time state placer in wrestling, earning 8th place in both his junior and senior years. His athletic journey continued at the collegiate level, competing in NCAA Division III wrestling for Heidelberg University before transferring to the University of Indianapolis, where he completed his career in NCAA Division II wrestling. Justin is finishing up two bachelor's degrees, one in Criminal Justice and one in Sociology, showcasing his commitment to excellence both on and off the mat.
Justin began his coaching career at Parma Senior High, where he spent five years coaching JV and varsity boys’ wrestling alongside Head Coach Chris Finowski and Assistant Coach Terry Juhn. Transitioning to girls' wrestling, he started a program at Parma Senior High with just six athletes. After Parma High closed, he moved to Normandy High School, where he expanded the program from two participants to over 30 in just two years. Justin also founded the Pink Flamingos, a district-wide middle school girls' wrestling program for grades 5-8, which now boasts over 20 athletes.
In addition to wrestling, Justin coaches middle school volleyball at Shiloh and club volleyball at Maverick, where he inspires athletes to grow in skill, teamwork, and passion.
This spring, Justin is launching Apex Girls Wrestling, an all-girls Freestyle and Greco-Roman wrestling club. As one of the few all-girls wrestling clubs in Northern Ohio, Apex Girls Wrestling will provide a unique and empowering space for female athletes to excel in the sport.
Throughout his coaching career, Justin has had the privilege of mentoring numerous state placers and qualifiers in wrestling and fostering growth and development in volleyball. His dedication to building strong programs and empowering athletes ensures a bright future for wrestling and volleyball in the community.
Tommy Kennell.
Volunteer Coach
Biography:
Tommy is a dedicated supporter of wrestling, with a passion that began during his high school career at Parma High and has continued as an enthusiastic follower and coach. He finds fulfillment in coaching girls' wrestling, striving to be a positive influence and create a meaningful impact in their lives both on and off the mat.
Outside of wrestling, Tommy is an avid baseball fan, passionately supporting the Cleveland Guardians and Atlanta Braves. In the offseason, he enjoys traveling across the United States to experience baseball in different states, combining his love for the sport with his interest in exploring new places.
Tommy’s mission as a coach is to emphasize the values of personal growth, perseverance, and perspective. He aims to show young athletes that life is about more than just winning and competing. By fostering a supportive and enjoyable environment, Tommy helps his wrestlers focus on their individual goals and develop a broader outlook on life while having fun along the way.
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