Rusak named Apprentice School head coach

<< Back to Articles
Jim Heath (The Apprentice School Sports Information)
09/22/2004


NEWPORT NEWS, VA. - Jeff Rusak, a two-time Colonial Athletic Association wrestling champion and four-time NCAA Tournament qualifier for Old Dominion University, was named head wrestling coach at The Apprentice School on Wednesday by Director of Athletics Bill Casto. Rusak comes to The Apprentice School after a one-year stint as assistant coach at his alma mater ODU.    "I am very pleased that we were able to hire a young man of Jeff's stature to lead our wrestling program," stated Bill Casto. "We have had some outstanding coaches in the past and Jeff certainly fits the mold.  He comes to us highly recommended as a coach and as an individual with integrity and class.  Jeff is already employed as a Technical Instructor with Northrop Grumman Newport News which enables an easy transition for all of us."    While wrestling for ODU, Rusak compiled a 135-19 overall record and held a 54-0 dual match record while wrestling for the Monarchs.  He was a three-time Virginia State Champion and a four-time NCAA Tournament qualifier and a four-time wrestling MVP for ODU.  Rusak earned CAA Rookie of the Year honors in 1998 and was CAA Wrestler of the Year in 2001-02.  Also in 2001-02 he was named the ODU Male Athlete of the Year.    "I'm honored to be named coach of the Apprentice School. This is a great opportunity and I'm looking forward to working with a great group of guys," said Rusak.  "The Apprentice Wrestling team has a strong tradition and I look forward to keep moving this program towards the top."