Join us for Episode 368 as we welcome Coach Dan Roy from Southern Regional High School—NJ State Coach of the Year & state title-winning architect of a wrestling powerhouse. In this unfiltered, deep-dive conversation, Dan shares his journey from wrestler to mentor, the impact of youth programs, the public/private dynamics in NJ wrestling, and how Southern's community culture fuels championship success.

Tune in now—available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & all your favorite platforms!


📋 Show Notes with Timestamps
0:00 – Introduction & guest welcome —Coach Roy is here to share his story.

2:08 – Promo & community engagement plug Coach highlights Southern’s social media, golf outing, and summer camp (July 7–9, 9 AM–12 PM).

3:37 – Golf banter Coach Roy’s golf game: strong driver, needs work on the short game.
5:03 – Jersey pride Old-school debate: Taylor ham or pork roll? Plus childhood memories from
Belmar.

7:43 – Wrestling origin story Started wrestling in 6th grade, inspired by his brothers; the wrestling community provided support.

11:00 – Coaching lineage Learning from Jerry Tabuchino (“Tabby”) and John Stout shaped Roy’s coaching identity.
 
14:02 – Tough competition philosophy Southern’s success comes from consistently high-level opponents and early losses.

19:00 – Handling slumps Coach Roy on staying positive, breaking down film, and working through losing streaks.

22:54 – Feeder and youth programs Southern’s strong link with Stafford wrestling club and middle school continuity.

27:23 – Building community support Teachers, alumni, and even Stafford PD grads return to support the program.

31:56 – State title journey Three-peat achievement despite injuries; nutritional adversity and grit.

34:43 – College placements Students to UPenn, West Point, Bucknell, Virginia Tech, Air Force, and more.

39:03 – Reload mindset Returning starters and upcoming freshmen news—no rebuild, just reload.

41:32 – Public vs. private squads & club impact - On navigating Ivy-tier clubs, private schools, and building the Southern advantage.

46:14 – Managing large teams
Over 100 wrestlers; multi-room practices and rotating coaching staff.

49:43 – Girls' wrestling 20+ girls on the team; growth, crossover athletes, and early success.
 
52:01 – Olympic influence Frank Monolo’s return each year inspires young Rams—club legend turned Olympian.

54:06 – Reclassification reflections Region realignment benefits “giving kids more opportunity to compete.”

1:06:30 – Finale & light-hearted wrap-up Coffee preferences, favorite guilty-pleasure pizza slice, and concert culture on the Shore.