Wrestling’s new coach finishes successful opening season

Jamie Gibbs was hired as the new head wrestling coach at the University of North Carolina Pembroke in July of 2006.             Gibbs finished his first season at UNCP by sending four of his wrestlers to the National Tournament.

UNCP wrestling improved to a record of 8-8 in dual meets, up from 4-12 last season.            

“This was a transition year for the kids from one coach to another,” Gibbs said.

Gibbs is taking the place of Coach P.J. Smith, who retired after 25 years of being the head coach.             

“Our current coaching staff has very high expectations for them,” Gibbs said.            

UNCP also had two wrestlers named to the All American team and three wrestlers received the Academic All American award.            
“I am very excited about the future of our wrestling program here at UNCP. Their work ethic is constantly improving which will help us reach our lofty goals,” he said.

Gibbs comes to UNCP from Coe College in Cedar Rapids, where he was the assistant coach for four years.            
           
Gibbs was an All-Iowa Conference wrestler during his years as a wrestler at Coe College.  He also earned a spot at Nationals while in junior college.