At Ascend Wrestling Academy, our mission is to elevate the sport of wrestling in Southwest Michigan by providing high-quality, character-driven training for athletes of all ages and experience levels.
We are committed to helping each wrestler—from Pre-K beginners to high school competitors—unlock their potential, develop mental and physical toughness, and grow both on and off the mat.
Through expert coaching, a supportive team environment, and a focus on long-term athlete development, we strive to empower every individual to continue to ascend—in wrestling and in life.
Mattawan High School Wrestling Barn
Three Full Mats
Indoor Bathroom and Plumbing
Adequate Parking
At Ascend Wrestling Academy, we offer programs designed to meet each athlete where they are—and help them grow. Whether your child is new to the sport or training for regional and national competitions, there's a place for them here.
Youth | $250
Mondays & Wednesdays
Mon & Wed 6:00-7:00 PM
November 2nd through January 27th
This program is for youth wrestlers who want extra training and the opportunity to learn from Ascend's coaching staff. It's a great supplement to a local community program: wrestlers can attend their local club on Tuesdays and Thursdays, then train with Ascend on Mondays and Wednesdays.
Beginners are welcome! We'll divide the class by experience level when needed so every wrestler can learn and improve.
All Ages | Registration: $150 | Monthly: $100 (Dec–Apr) | Total: $650
Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays
Mon & Wed 7:00-8:30 PM
Fri 6:00-7:30 PM
November 2nd through April 29th
Ascend Elite is for serious wrestlers across Southwest Michigan who are ready to train at a higher level. Wrestlers will work with experienced coaches and strong practice partners while developing advanced technique and preparing for regional and national competitions.
Meet our experienced coaching staff dedicated to developing wrestlers of all skill levels through expert instruction and mentorship.
Founder of Ascend Wrestling Academy
Coach Nico Lopez has been immersed in the sport of wrestling for his entire life and has spent the past 25 years coaching in the Kalamazoo area. His wrestling journey began at a young age and spanned multiple states, eventually leading to a standout high school career at Kalamazoo Central, where he was a four-year varsity letterman, amassed over 100 wins, and was a state qualifier.
Following high school, Coach Lopez competed collegiately for two years at Muskegon Community College. After concluding his competitive career, he transitioned directly into coaching, spending the next two decades assisting at Kalamazoo Central.
Coach Lopez has also been deeply involved with USA Wrestling, particularly in freestyle and Greco-Roman disciplines. He was a multiple-time Team Michigan member, a national qualifier, and competed on the national stage at the Junior Nationals in Fargo, North Dakota.
In 2021, Coach Lopez and his family relocated to Mattawan, Michigan. He became the head coach of the Mattawan Wrestling program in 2023. Under his leadership, the program has thrived, and in 2025, he was honored as the MWA Regional Coach of the Year.
Coach Lopez is known for his coaching philosophy centered around respect, discipline, and the belief that wrestling provides life lessons that extend far beyond the mat. He and his wife Andrea—his high school sweetheart from Kalamazoo—have been married for 20 years. Together, they have three children: MaKenna (23), Cohen (19), and Kendall (12), all of who or whom have wrestled.
Coach
J.D. Greathouse is a 2017 graduate of Mason High School where he earned all-state honors twice throughout his career. He also garnered over 130 career wins.
Greathouse wrestled at Indiana University, a Division I institution in the Big 10, which is widely considered the toughest wrestling conference in the country. He was coached by Duane Goldman, a 4x National Finalist for the Iowa Hawkeyes and Pan Am Games Gold Medalist.
After one year of full-time club coaching, he has helped develop kids at both the youth and high school levels. On the youth side of the house, he's been responsible for helping with the development of 1 state champion, 3 state finalists, and 23 total state medalists. On the high school side, he helped develop 12 kids into first-time state qualifiers and an additional 19 kids as first-time state placers.
Coach
Leonardo Galasso brings a high-level competitive background and a passion for developing wrestlers of all ages to Ascend Wrestling. A graduate of Kalamazoo Central High School, Leonardo wrestled under Coach Nico and established himself as one of Michigan's top competitors, earning two state medals and finishing as a Michigan State Finalist.
Following high school, Leonardo continued his wrestling career at Central Michigan University before transferring to Indiana Tech. At Indiana Tech, he became a WHAC Conference Champion and a Round of 12 National Tournament finisher. During his senior season, Leonardo was ranked in the NAIA top 10 throughout the year, reaching as high as No. 2 nationally. Along the way, he earned victories over three NAIA All-Americans and established himself as one of the premier wrestlers in the country.
Leonardo also led his team in single-season takedowns and major decisions, showcasing an aggressive, offense-first style that continues to influence his coaching today. His expertise centers around leg attacks, reattacks, and developing wrestlers who can score consistently from every position.
At Ascend Wrestling, Leonardo is committed to helping athletes maximize their potential through disciplined training, technical excellence, and a relentless pursuit of improvement both on and off the mat.
3-Time Varsity Letterman · Former University of Olivet Wrestler
Charles Wilks is passionate about helping wrestlers grow both on and off the mat. As a former collegiate wrestler at the University of Olivet and a three-time varsity letterman, he brings valuable experience, a strong work ethic, and a servant's heart to every practice.
Charles enjoys coaching because it gives him the opportunity to invest in the next generation, teaching not only wrestling technique but also the discipline, character, and life lessons that helped shape him as both a wrestler and a student-athlete.
Outside of the wrestling room, Charles enjoys spending time with family and friends, staying active through fitness, and serving in his church. His faith, family, and passion for mentoring young athletes are at the core of who he is.
At Ascend Wrestling Academy, Charles is committed to creating an environment where athletes are challenged, encouraged, and equipped to reach their full potential—both in wrestling and in life.
2012 Michigan State Champion · Former University of Michigan Wrestler
Angelo Latora brings an exceptional wrestling background and a rich family legacy to the Ascend Wrestling Academy coaching staff.
A 2012 Michigan State Champion at Portage Central High School, Angelo earned All-State honors all four years of his high school career, compiling an impressive 200-21 record while setting numerous school records. He continued his wrestling career at the University of Michigan, where he earned a starting position at 141 pounds and achieved national rankings.
The Latora family has been a cornerstone of Southwest Michigan wrestling since the 1960s. Angelo follows in the footsteps of his grandfather Carl, father Tony, uncles Andy and Joe, and brothers Dominic and Dante, who collectively have earned numerous state championships and All-State honors.
Angelo brings collegiate experience, championship-level knowledge, and a passion for developing the next generation of wrestlers. His addition to Ascend strengthens our commitment to providing athletes with high-level coaching, advanced technique, and opportunities to reach their full potential.
From the practice room to the podium — see our wrestlers compete, train, and grow together.
