Wrestle with the Best
About Us
At Eastern Carolina Wrestling Academy, we are more than just a wrestling club— we are a community committed to building champions both on and off the mat. Based in Jacksonville, North Carolina, we specialize in developing elite wrestlers through disciplined training, mental toughness, and a relentless drive for excellence. Proudly named one of the Top 10 Wrestling Clubs in North Carolina by USA Wrestling, we set the standard for what it means to train, compete, and succeed.
Our all-volunteer coaching staff is composed of some of the most respected figures in the region, including:
- The only USA Wrestling Silver Certified Coach in Eastern NC
- A coach with Division I-level experience
- The Women’s Assistant Coach at the University of Mount Olive
With decades of combined experience, our coaches have helped athletes become state qualifiers, state placers, and national team members. Every coach is here because they love the sport and are dedicated to giving back — no pay, just passion.
Whether you're new to wrestling or an advanced competitor striving for the next level, our academy offers a supportive yet challenging environment where athletes grow in skill, confidence, and character.
Join us and discover what it means to train with purpose, compete with pride, and pursue greatness.
Why the Rhino
- Thick and Tough Skin: Rhinos are built to endure — their skin is incredibly thick and tough. In our program, we develop that same mental toughness — not just for wrestling, but for life. We learn to stay strong, resilient, and unshaken by adversity.
- Limited Vision, Unshakable Faith: Rhinos can only see about 12 feet ahead, yet they charge forward with confidence. Like the rhino, we may not always see the full path ahead, but we believe in ourselves and trust that we can overcome whatever lies in front of us.
- No Reverse Gear: Rhinos can't walk backward — they only move forward. We adopt that same mindset. No matter the obstacles or setbacks, we stay focused on our goals and keep pushing forward.