From Iowa to the Redwoods: Coach Lennie Zalesky & the Rise of Cal Poly Humboldt Wrestling

In this episode of Airey Bros Radio, we’re joined by wrestling icon Coach Lennie Zalesky, whose journey spans from being a 3x All-American at Iowa under Dan Gable to reviving collegiate wrestling at Cal Poly Humboldt. Coach Zalesky reflects on building championship programs, launching Humboldt’s first-year team from scratch, and coaching alongside his brother. He shares insights on recruiting blue-collar wrestlers, the West Coast wrestling scene, and what it takes to build something from the ground up.Whether you're a student-athlete, wrestling fan, or coach, this episode will inspire and inform. Don't forget to follow, rate, and share!

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⏱️ Show Notes & Timestamps

• 0:00 – Intro / Why We Spotlight Programs Like Humboldt
  
  
• 2:30 – Meet Coach Zalesky: Career Highlights & Vision at Cal Poly Humboldt
  
  
• 5:30 – Colorado Trips & Tom’s River Connection
  
  
• 6:50 – From Basketball Dreams to Wrestling Reality
  
  
• 9:00 – Coaching with His Brother: Full Circle Moment
  
  
• 13:30 – Building a Program from Scratch: No Room, No Mats, No Staff
  
  
• 17:00 – Outdoor Lifestyle & Academic Majors at Humboldt
  
  
• 25:00 – Recruiting the Underdogs: Fifth-Place Guys with Fire
  
  
• 30:00 – The California High School Scene & Statewide Talent
  
  
• 35:00 – Coach Zalesky’s Cal Baptist to D1 Journey
  
  
• 43:00 – Scheduling Struggles, Open Tournaments & First Home Dual
  
  
• 50:00 – The Grit it Takes to Build & Advice to Young Coaches
  
  
• 1:03:00 – Dave Schultz Stories & Lessons from the Mat
  
  
• 1:10:00 – Final Four: Coffee, Routines, Music, and Guilty Pleasures