John J. Grillo, Holley wrestling coach and athletic director, will be honored at the National High School Athletic Coaches Association (NHSACA) National Awards Banquet in Florida on June 30. He is one of eight finalists from around the country, one of whom will be selected as NHSACA Coach of the Year for wrestling. Overall, 144 finalists are being honored. Each nominee selected as coach of the year in his or her sport will receive a 10-carat ruby ring in the tradition of football's Super Bowl ring. Grillo was nominated to represent the eastern United States based on his dedication to the athletes he serves, his administering of programs and his foresight and successes. Before a coach of the year is named, each nominee must present his or her career highlights to a panel of judges, who will then ask the nominee questions. Grillo joined the Holley School District in 1975, then left to teach in the Pavilion School District from 1977 to 1989. He returned to Holley in 1989 to coach his three sons in wrestling. Over the years, Grillo has had more than 390 wins as a coach and has led Holley to win seven out of the past eight sectional titles. He's also coached three state champions - his son, Ashley John, who came in fifth; Adam Ezell, who was fourth; and most recently, his son, Andrew, who was first. Overall, Grillo has coached his teams to 87 Genesee Region Championships and 52 Section V Class Championships. |
