Roots
Wells’ journey with wrestling began long before his high school accolades. It started when he was just seven years old, full of energy and competitive spirit, growing up alongside a cousin who shared both.
“One day, my dad took us to a wrestling practice,” Wells recalled. “We both instantly fell in love with the sport.” That early spark would grow into something much bigger. By the time he entered Central High School in 2009, Wells already had a foundation of discipline and drive that would carry him through four standout seasons.
From 2009 to 2013, he became one of Central’s most dominant wrestlers, earning three state championships. But for Wells, those medals weren’t just symbols of victory—they were proof of his values in action. “For me, the gold medals all have the same meaning: dedication, hard work, and sacrifice,” he said. That mindset defined not only his performance but his commitment to wrestling at every level. He believes success requires prioritizing passion over comfort. “Sometimes you have to sacrifice things you like for things you love,” he added, “and I love wrestling and winning.”
His success didn’t come in isolation. Wells is quick to credit the people around him—coaches, teammates, and mentors—who shaped his development both as an athlete and a leader. “Coach Foster, no question. He taught me many things, but most of all how to be a leader,” he said. That leadership foundation, instilled early on, would later prove essential as Wells transitioned into coaching himself. Alongside Foster, Wells also leaned on the guidance of Coach Galloway, Chuck Mulligan, and the energy of his training partners, forming a network of support that helped elevate his competitive edge.
The Journey
After graduating from Central, Wells continued his wrestling career at Colby Community College in Kansas. His decision was influenced by familiarity and trust—one of his close friends had gone there the year prior, and the coaching staff made him feel at home. That sense of belonging turned out to be the right call, as Wells developed into an All-American at the collegiate level.
But the path wasn’t linear. In one of the most defining moments of his college career, Wells found himself on the wrong end of a 10-0 loss in the national quarterfinals. “I was devastated. My national championship dream felt crushed,” he said, reflecting on the disappointment. Yet it was in that setback that he demonstrated what he values most—resilience. “I wrestled all the way back and ended up beating that same guy for third place,” he said. It wasn’t just a comeback; it was a statement that effort and mindset matter more than one bad match. For Wells, the lesson was clear: perseverance isn’t optional—it’s essential.
When his college career concluded, Wells chose to come home—not just to Omaha, but to Central. He joined the special education department as an paraprofessional, and soon after, stepped in as an assistant wrestling coach. His return wasn’t about nostalgia. It was about giving back. “Central has done amazing things for my life,” he said. “I just hope I can help others do amazing things with theirs.” That desire to mentor and guide others now defines the way he coaches and teaches, driven by the same values that fueled his time on the mat.
Under the guidance of former head coach Matt Storm, Wells found himself learning not just about wrestling strategy, but about team management, discipline, and the quiet work of building a program. “He accomplished a lot, but what I took most from him was how to be a true leader,” Wells said. Working alongside Storm gave him the opportunity to grow into his own coaching identity—one that blends technical expertise with the empathy of someone who once walked the same hallways as the athletes he now leads.
Looking Ahead
Now, as head coach, Wells has his eyes firmly set on the future of the Central wrestling program. He steps into the role with deep roots in the program’s past but a clear vision for what comes next.
“My goal is to continue the tradition of excellence here at Central,” he said. But for Wells, excellence goes beyond just winning matches. It means shaping student-athletes who excel both on the mat and in the classroom. His approach emphasizes the full development of each athlete—physically, mentally, and academically—creating a team culture built on growth, accountability, and pride.
With his championship experience, coaching knowledge, and personal connection to the school, Coach Wells represents a full-circle moment for Central Wrestling. He knows what’s possible because he’s lived it. And now, he’s ready to lead the next generation of Eagles to soar even higher.
