Have you ever wondered what it’s like to step into the shoes of a wrestling coach? Our guest for today's episode, Coach Troy Steiner, takes us on a deep dive into the world of wrestling. From the Central Valley in California to the Midwest, he shares the vibrant local wrestling culture and the journey that led him from his first head coaching position at Fresno State to his current role at the Gopher Wrestling Club at the University of Minnesota. His experience with program discontinuation at Fresno State opens up a conversation about the difficulty of making financial decisions at the university level and the crucial task of providing opportunities for students.

As we continue the conversation, we venture into the complexities of college coaching, putting the spotlight on NILs and RTCs. Coach Steiner shares his insights about the impact of the transfer portal on teams and emphasizes the necessity for prioritizing the team and adapting to changes. He also provides a unique perspective on how coaches can utilize NIL to benefit their athletes. These insights will certainly give you a new appreciation for the challenges and rewards of coaching at a college level.

In the final segment, we explore the realm of professional sports and the opportunities that wrestling provides. Coach Steiner shares his thoughts on Gable Steveson's professional wrestling career and the booming MMA scene. He also discusses the criteria for joining an RTC and the evolution of the sport. Lastly, we discuss the struggles faced when coordinating practices for RTCs due to conflicting work schedules. So, whether you're a wrestling enthusiast, a coach, or just generally interested in college sports management, this episode is packed with fascinating insights and stories from the frontline. Join us for this heart-to-heart chat with Coach Troy Steiner, as he shares about his coaching intensity, his love for the sport, and his experiences with the transfer portal.