New Wrestling Coach Named For Westlake High School

WESTLAKE, OH — Westlake High School has a new wrestling coach. Mike Carpenter, pending Board of Education approval, will take over the job, succeeding Joe Heiland.

Carpenter has a long history as both wrestler and coach. A two-time state placer for St. Edward's High School, and the 1986 OHSAA State Champion, Carpenter is a member of the St. Ed's Athletic Hall of Fame. He wrestled for Dan Gable at the University of Iowa and earned a varsity letter for the school. He then suffered a series of injuries and transferred to Cleveland State University. As a Viking, he set a single season win record in 1991, posting a 37-4 record and qualifying for the NCAA Division 1 National Championships.

After graduation, he spent time as a graduate assistant at Cleveland State, helping coach the team. It was there that he developed his love for coaching.

Carpenter was head coach of the Avon High School wrestling program from 1994-1998. For the past three years he's served as an assistant coach at St. Edward's. When Heiland stepped down to focus on his family, Carpenter saw an opportunity.

"This seemed like a good time to get back involved with the sport," he said.

During his most recent stint at St. Edward's, Carpenter has had an opportunity to watch the Westlake wrestling team. He noted their skill and watched Demon wrestlers head to sectionals and states. "They're a really good team," he said.

Now, he said, he's excited to grab this latest opportunity by the horns.

"I’ve always loved working with the teams and I’ve always loved being involved with the sport. Being around the sport and trying to build something everyone can be proud of," he told Patch.

Carpenter hasn't yet met with the team, or developed a familiarity with the talents. He said the hiring process was a whirlwind that saw him land the job in about three days. He's planning on meeting with the wrestlers as soon as possible.

"I'm just grateful Westlake gave me this opportunity," he said.

Carpenter is a history teacher in the Berea School District.

Photo from Mike Carpenter