Building a Legacy of Champions
Poway Legacy: Coach Wayne Branstetter
“The season started in 1978” famous words of the coach who started this. Wayne pulled 9th graders from PE classes and from the halls to recruit kids to enlist in the program that would change their lives forever.
State titles in 1986, 1999, 2005 and 2009 are highlighted by the Fred Wong switch heard around the world! In between these titles and beyond through Wayne’s retirement were countless lives touched by Poway Wrestling on and off the mat. The program uses wrestling as a vehicle to create young men and women of high character, morals, and grit to take on life’s challenges as champions. Those Who Stay Will Be Champions!
Branstetter says that his greatest accomplishment was “turning hundreds of young boys, through a very sport called wrestling, into great men, regardless of where they finished on the podium, in order to become ‘productive’ members of society.”
Shaping Success and Legacy
Achievements & Impact
Celebrating Wayne Branstetter’s unparalleled achievements and lasting influence on Poway Wrestling, shaping champions on and off the mat through dedication, leadership, and a legacy of excellence.
Dedication and Leadership
Branstetter’s commitment to excellence not only brought success to Poway Wrestling but also fostered a deep sense of pride and belonging among his athletes. His influence went beyond the mat, as many former wrestlers credit him for teaching life skills like leadership, persistence, and discipline, which have shaped their personal and professional lives.
Prestigious Coaching Honors
Over the years, Branstetter has been recognized with numerous coaching accolades. He was named National Wrestling Coaches Association Coach of the Year in 2005 and was honored as Male Coach of the Year by the San Diego Hall of Champions. His impressive achievements also include being named National Coach of the Year by the National Federation of State High School Associations in 2001 and by the National High School Coaches Association in 1998.
Hall of Fame Inductions
Branstetter’s legacy in wrestling is cemented through his many Hall of Fame inductions. He has received the Lifetime Service to Wrestling award from the California Chapter of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame and is a member of the Ventura College Hall of Fame, the California Coaches Association Hall of Fame, and the Chico State Hall of Fame.
Leading with Passion and Excellence
About Coach Wayne Branstetter
A legendary coach, spent 40 years leading the Poway High School wrestling team, concluding his illustrious career in 2018. During his tenure, he amassed an impressive record of 471-6-2 in dual meets, won 39 Palomar League championships, 37 San Diego Section titles, 35 section Masters meet crowns, and four California State Championships.
Honoring a Lifetime of Excellence
Recognition & Legacy
A plaque honoring Coach Branstetter hangs in the Poway High wrestling room, commemorating his remarkable career. The Perry L. Munday Wrestling Center, named after its benefactor, serves as a shrine to the sport, featuring walls adorned with plaques and awards.
The Poway Titan Wall of Fame, located in the foyer, showcases the achievements of the team’s most accomplished wrestlers.
United by Tradition and Pride
Poway Community
Poway High School’s wrestling program has become synonymous with excellence, attracting top talent from around the region. The program’s reputation and Coach Branstetter’s legacy have created a sense of prestige among students, with many considering wrestling a badge of honor.
