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
Beginner Program
6:00-7:00 PM
High School
7th-12th Grade
7:00-8:30 PM
Youth
2nd-7th Grade
6:00-7:30 PM
Beginner Program
6:00-7:00 PM
High School
7th-12th Grade
7:00-8:30 PM
Youth
2nd-7th Grade
3:00-4:30 PM
Girls Wrestling
All Ages
5:00-6:00 PM
At Ascend Wrestling Academy, we offer age-appropriate, skill-based programs designed to meet each athlete where they are—and help them grow. Whether your child is brand new to the sport or gearing up for state-level competition, there's a place for them here.
All Ages | $100
Tuesdays & Thursdays
6:00-7:00 PM
August 30th through November 1st
Perfect for wrestlers who are new to the sport or need additional time developing the fundamentals.
This class focuses on basic wrestling skills, body movement, coordination, confidence, and creating a love for the sport. It is the perfect head start for athletes planning to wrestle in their local MYWAY or community wrestling program this winter.
2nd-7th Grade | $250
Wednesdays & Sundays
Wed 6:00-7:30 PM
Sun 3:00-4:30 PM
August 30th through November 1st
Our Youth Fall Session is designed for experienced wrestlers who want to continue training, improving, and competing throughout the fall.
Practices will emphasize technique, drilling, live wrestling, and competition preparation while building confidence heading into the winter season. Whether your goal is to win tournaments or simply continue improving, this program is designed to help you take the next step.
7th-12th Grade | $350
Tuesdays & Thursdays
7:00-8:30 PM
August 30th through November 1st
Our High School Fall Session is designed for dedicated wrestlers who want to continue training and competing before the school season begins.
Practices will focus on advanced technique, drilling, live wrestling, match strategy, and competition preparation to ensure athletes are ready to compete from day one of the winter season.
All Ages | $100
Sundays
5:00-6:00 PM
August 30th through November 1st
Join us as we continue growing girls wrestling throughout Southwest Michigan.
This practice is open to girls of all ages and experience levels. Whether you're stepping onto the mat for the first time or you're an experienced competitor, you'll find a positive environment focused on learning, improving, competing, and building lasting friendships.
Our goal is to build a strong community while continuing to grow the sport of women's wrestling throughout Southwest Michigan.
All Ages | $125
Sundays
3:00-4:30 PM
August 30th through November 1st
Can't make practices during the week because you're playing another fall sport?
Our Sunday-only option gives wrestlers the opportunity to stay on the mat, continue sharpening their skills, and be ready for the winter season. Wrestlers will be grouped by age and experience level to ensure quality instruction for everyone.
Don't let another sport keep you from continuing your wrestling development.
Compete at top events throughout the fall season.
September 12-13
Fort Wayne, Indiana
Registration opens July 24 and this event typically sells out quickly.
Learn more →October 24-25
Las Vegas, Nevada
Free hotel accommodations and tournament entry are available for qualifying athletes. Athletes must be full-time Ascend members, approved by the coaching staff, and committed by August 15. Contact Coach Nico for details.
Learn more →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.