I noticed Russ is the 5A asst coach of the year. What a great choice. I have thought for the last three or four years, he was a guy that somebody ought to latch on for a head coach. I have always been thoroughly impressed with him.

Paola is lucky to have him. He puts a lot of time and effort into coaching and it shows. He has done great things for the program at both levels. Congrats Russ!

I agree totally! And, he is constantly looking to improve his abilities. Russ is always at USA Wrestling's big events learning new techniques.

Bump to keep those Paola boys near the top.

Another assistant coach that deserves mention is Jason Blanding, who is also from Paola and was either a 2 or 3x state champion. He helped Pittsburg win their first individual state title in many years and he also dedicates much of his summer working with the National team.

Jason B was as class of an act as you could find and untouchable his Soph and Junior years, but Paola cant take much credit for that. His folks and Kevin Klemm are where that came from. And of course Jason himself. I am sure he is a great coach.