CCC
COLBY - Colby Community College is excited to announce the inaugural head women's wrestling coach, Michael Ruiz, as the Trojans aim to begin competition in the fall of 2025.
Ruiz has coached women's wrestling at various levels, with stops at Portville High School and the University of Providence-Great Falls. Recently, he was an assistant wrestling coach at Benedictine College in Atchison last season and is the resident director on campus.
A native of Porterville, Calif., Ruiz began his collegiate wrestling career at West Hills Community College, where he excelled as a student-athlete and earned California Junior College All-American honors, placing third at the state tournament. He continued his wrestling journey at the University of Providence and became a two-time NAIA All-American, placing fourth and second in the country.
After completing his collegiate career, Ruiz turned his attention to coaching at his high school alma mater, Porterville High School. He was the assistant girl's wrestling coach alongside head coach Julian Palomino for three years. Coach Ruiz developed into a coach who wants to see success on the mat and personal development for all his student-athletes, helping develop young athletes and build a competitive program.
Under his guidance, numerous wrestlers succeeded at the local, regional, and state levels, with many continuing their careers in college.
Ruiz's dedication to fostering athletic and personal growth in his athletes is at the core of his coaching philosophy. As he transitions to Colby Community College, he brings a deep passion for the sport and a commitment to helping student-athletes excel on and off the mat.
"I'm honored to join the Colby Community College family and lead this historic moment for the women's wrestling program," he said. "I'm looking forward to recruiting and mentoring the first group of student-athletes who will lay the foundation for this program. There's something special about being part of the beginning of a legacy."
Students interested in becoming part of the women’s wrestling program can submit the recruitment interest form or contact Coach Ruiz at [email protected].