In late June, Nick Gwiazdowski joined the Spartan Combat RTC as a resident athlete. Now, the two-time NCAA champion has been named the volunteer assistant coach at Cornell.
“It’s my first time on a coaching staff and I’m excited about it for sure,” Gwiazdowski said. “I’ve never been in that role, although I’ve been around it a lot. I’m excited to be in the room and be in the corner for dual meets. I'm ready and I’ll also learn from experienced coaches like Mike [Grey], Kellen [Russell], and Donnie [Vinson].” Since 2003, Big Red wrestlers have earned All-American honors 68 times, an average of almost four per season, including 13 at 184 pounds and 10 at 197. However, none of those All-Americans have been heavyweights. “That’s an interesting statistic - and not a good one if you ask me,” Gwiazdowski said. “I know how to get on the podium at nationals. There are able bodied guys here with good skill. It’s all about buying in and committing everything, to develop trust in themselves and the confidence they need against anyone in the country. Heavyweight is different - all athletes need to learn how to adjust their skills against different body types.” Gwiazdowski, who made the podium as a true freshman and was a four-time All-American, clearly learned. Now one of the top heavyweights in the World in freestyle, he’s begun working in Ithaca with fellow Spartan Combat RTC athlete Youssif Hemida, a two-time All-American at Maryland who Gwiazdowski said is “definitely a great training partner for me and the other 197s and heavyweights at the RTC.” Gwiazdowski is currently preparing for the World Team Trials, which will take place in September if Gable Steveson decides not to go to the World Championships in Oslo. (That decision will be made by August 15). A multiple-time medalist at the World Championships, Gwiazdowski said that if he has the opportunity to compete for a World team spot, "I’m looking to make the most of it.” Until then, he is excited to meet all the Big Red wrestlers and get started with a young and talented squad.
"I love teaching and learning,” he said. “I’m excited to help others around me rise up and improve.”