CrankMat Podcast EP. 1 New Topsail Head Coach Dave Baumgarten on Building NC Wrestling
- Ryan Hayes
- 1 day ago
- 1 min read
Description:
On this episode of the CrankMat Podcast, Ryan Hayes sits down with newly named Topsail High School head wrestling coach Dave Baumgarten.
Baumgarten discusses his move from Long Island to North Carolina, the welcoming wrestling community he has found in the Topsail area, and his vision for building a strong, family-centered program. He explains why he believes North Carolina has the talent to become an even bigger wrestling hotbed—and why challenging the system, including conversations around the state’s classifications, can help push the sport forward.
Coach Baumgarten also breaks down the foundation already in place at Topsail, highlights returning and incoming wrestlers and also explains his approach to scheduling. Rather than chasing dual-meet records, he emphasizes tournament development, giving athletes opportunities to battle back through brackets, and building a complete team capable of competing at the highest level.
The conversation also covers:
• Dave’s early wrestling days at Hauppauge on Long Island
• His experience around wrestling, MMA, and boxing communities
• The mentors, coaches, teammates, and families who shaped his career
• The growth and mission of Prestige Worldwide National Teams
• Why relationships, community, and having fun matter in wrestling
• His respect for Scott Fike, Staunton River, and the River Rumble
• Advice for young coaches, mentors, wrestlers, and parents
Coach Baumgarten shares a clear message throughout the interview: success is bigger than individual accolades. Build people, support your community, lead the right way, and give young athletes a place where they can grow both on and off the mat.
“If you ain’t cranking, you ain’t turning.”
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