Coaches
Our coaching staff is the foundation of Iron Forge Combat Club. Each coach brings a unique background, skill set, and passion for helping athletes grow through wrestling, strength, and discipline. Together, they create a positive and challenging environment where wrestlers can learn proper technique, build confidence, develop character, and push toward their goals. From beginners stepping onto the mat for the first time to experienced athletes preparing for competition, our coaches are committed to guiding every wrestler through the process of being forged into their best.
Coach Lloyd
Coach Mario
I began coaching wrestling as a way to build a stronger bond with my children after they decided to step onto the mat. What started as an opportunity to support them quickly became a true passion. As I spent more time coaching, I discovered how rewarding it is to help young athletes—from first-time wrestlers to high school competitors—develop not only their wrestling skills but also their confidence, discipline, and work ethic.
Coaching rekindled my love for the sport and reminded me of the impact a coach can have on an athlete’s life. There is nothing more rewarding than watching wrestlers achieve goals they have worked tirelessly for, whether it’s earning a spot on the podium at the state tournament, winning a championship, or simply accomplishing something they once thought was out of reach.
My wrestling journey began in eighth grade when a friend encouraged me to give the sport a try. After my very first match, I realized that wrestling is unique—when you win or lose, the responsibility rests with you. That lesson in accountability has stayed with me throughout my life and continues to shape my coaching philosophy.
During my first season, I earned placements at several tournaments, and I went on to become a four-year varsity wrestler in high school and a multi-state qualifier. The lessons I learned through wrestling continue to influence the way I coach today. My goal is to help every athlete reach their full potential while teaching the values of perseverance, accountability, respect, and resilience that extend far beyond the wrestling mat.
Coach Amanda
Coach Cory
Coach Cory coaches because he believes wrestling can shape young athletes far beyond the mat. For him, wrestling provided a strong foundation during his youth, helping him build discipline, work ethic, confidence, and life skills that carried forward into adulthood. The positive impact his own coaches had on him inspired his desire to give back and be a strong role model for the next generation. Coach Cory is passionate about helping kids grow not only as wrestlers, but as hard-working, respectful, and resilient young people.
Coach Cory wrestled for Lake Elsinore High School in California, where he was a four-time CIF champion and qualified for the state tournament all four years of high school. In addition to his wrestling background, he has over 10 years of experience practicing various martial arts, with a focus on UFC-style combat training. His combination of wrestling experience, martial arts knowledge, and commitment to youth development allows him to bring a strong, well-rounded coaching approach to Iron Forge Combat Club.
Coach Heidi
Strength & Conditioning Coach
Coach Heidi’s journey into wrestling began through her children’s love for the sport. As she spent more time around the wrestling community, she found a place where her own passion for fitness and athlete development could make a meaningful impact. Most recently, she has continued to stay closely connected to the sport through her daughter, who wrestles for Ellison High School.
With a strong background in fitness and conditioning, Coach Heidi loves helping young athletes build strength, confidence, and discipline. She enjoys watching kids learn, grow, and discover what they are capable of both on and off the mat. As Iron Forge Combat Club’s Strength and Conditioning Coach, she is committed to helping athletes develop the physical foundation they need to train hard, compete well, and stay prepared.
Coach Heidi is a NASM Certified Personal Trainer and also holds NASM credentials in Performance Enhancement Specialization, Mixed Martial Arts Conditioning Specialization, and Advanced Cardio Programming.