The Hawkeye Wrestling Academy, founded by University of Iowas 4x All American, 4x Big Ten Champion, Hawkeye Wrestling Club member Alex Marinelli is where champions are made no matter win or lose. The academy is committed to give one-on-one coaching to youth, middle school, and high school wrestlers. Instilling principles and values that allow our athletes to take on any challenge. Coaching alongside Alex Marinelli are some of Iowa Wrestling greats, Hawkeye Wrestling Club members Austin Desanto, and Kaleb Young and Iowa Wrestler Kolby Franklin. At the HWA we will be instilling the values that our coaches have learned from their mentors Tom and Terry Brands and from their past legendary youth club coaches.

Our mission is to build exceptional young men and women on and off the mat. We strive to retain and graduate athletes from our academy who work hard and are great members of society. Our approach to our athletes is to never train alone and to build camaraderie. To hold each other accountable while pushing each other towards greatness. We strive to win at the HWA but we want to win the right way. Being a champion means more than just getting your hand raised. Here at the HWA we have standards for academics, lifestyle and athletics that will never be compromised.

an enviroment to succeed

With our world class coaching and mentoring, the youth will be provided what best fits their needs. They will train in the same environment as legends have and still train in today. Each wrestler in the HWA will receive the same support and guidance as each coach received during their time here at the University of Iowa. We will incorporate the latest sports science, recovery techniques and strength programs that we received at Iowa to set our academy apart.

where you will train

At the Hawkeye Wrestling Academy you will be utilizing two of the best facilities in the world. The Dan Gable Wrestling Complex located in Carver Arena and the brand new state of the art $31 million Goshke Family Wrestling Training Center. With some of the latest technology, sports equipment and recovery rooms your athlete will have everything they need and more to succeed.

Join the hwa

Whether you're aiming for the top of the podium or striving to refine your technique, our elite coaches and cutting-edge training will push you beyond your limits and build you up beyond measures. Whether you are just starting your wrestling journey or your journey has just begun, come be a part of greatness. Join the Hawkeye Wrestling Academy where champions are forged the right way.

COACHING STAFF

ALEX MARINELLI

University of Iowa (2016-2022)
4x All-American
4x Big Ten Champion
2021 NCAA Team National Champions
Graham High School (2012-2016)
4x Ohio High School State Champion
4x Ohio High School Team State Champions
2015 High School National Champions
2x Iron Man Champion (4x Finalist)
Youth Club: Team Jordan (Jeff Jordan)
AUSTIN DESANTO

University of Iowa (2018-2022)
4x All-American
2021 NCAA Team National Champions
Drexel University (2017-2018)
NCAA Qualifier
2017 Pennsylvania High School State Champion
KALEB YOUNG

University of Iowa (2016-2022)
3x All-American
2021 NCAA Team National Champions
2016 Pennsylvania High School State Champion
Super 32 Champion
Youth Club: Young Guns (Jody Strittmatter)
KOLBY FRANKLIN

University of Iowa (2022-23)
Pennsylvania Prep State Champion
PIAA State Runner Up
Prep National Runner Up
2X Fargo Champion (Two-time finalist)