On Monday, the Ottumwa wrestling program will make history as they kick off the 2021-22 season.
The district is the first in the state to hire a coach dedicated to the girls wrestling program. Isaiah Cox, an OHS alumni and former wrestler, was named to lead the program. According to Athletic Director Scott Maas, "Cox was a great wrestler and a great athlete with an outstanding collegiate career." After wrestling for both Iowa Lakes and Wartburg, Cox returned to Ottumwa and has been involved in the wrestling program since. He also serves as an associate in the district's Transitions program, serving middle school youth.
A Chicago native, Cox began his wrestling career as an OHS freshman when he moved to Ottumwa. "It changed my life, honestly," he said of the sport. Cox will be responsible for building the girls program from the ground up. His goals in the first year include building on the success of the past as well as starting a youth program.
His previous experience coaching OHS wrestlers means he already has connections with the girls. "They are tough," he said. "I'm looking forward to creating something very special."
