SOMERS – Corey VanGroll earned All-American honors as a wrestler for the University of Wisconsin-Parkside in 2009. Last week, the former 165-lb. star was named head coach of the Parkside wrestling program.

"I am honored and humbled to return to UW-Parkside and to carry on this program's rich tradition," VanGroll said. "I look forward to developing each and every athlete as we strive for athletic and academic prowess. I also look forward to connecting with old and new fans, friends, families, and alumni."

VanGroll was born and raised in Maribel, Wis., and attended Denmark High School where he twice placed at the WIAA state championships.

"We are thrilled to welcome Corey back to campus to lead our wrestling program and our student-athletes," said Andrew Gavin, Director of Athletics. "His experiences and successful track record as a head coach are impressive and will be complimented by his knowledge of our University and wrestling program, connections to Ranger Alumni, and ties to the wrestling community in the area. Our storied program looks forward to a bright future with Corey at the helm."  

VanGroll graduated from UW-Parkside in 2009 with a bachelor of science degree in fitness management. He earned a master of education degree from Iowa State University in 2011, and a doctor of education degree with a sport psychology emphasis in 2015.

He also brings over eight years of coaching experience at the NCAA III and NJCAA levels, including six years as a head coach. VanGroll started his coaching career as an assistant coach at Iowa Lakes Community College in 2009 and coached the school's first national champion.

In 2012 VanGroll was selected to head the wrestling program at Concordia University Wisconsin where he coached two national champions, including Concordia's first, and a total of nine all Americans. He was named Northern Wrestling Association Coach of the Year and led the team to three consecutive conference championships in 2013, 2014, and 2015.

VanGroll takes over for former UW-Parkside wrestling coach Gregg Lewis, who stepped down when the coaching position was changed from part time to full time. Lewis guided the program for the past six years.