OUR COACHES
Decades of wrestling expertise. A passion for developing champions on and off the mat.
Meet the Coaches
Our experienced coaching staff brings decades of wrestling expertise and a passion for developing young athletes.
Wrestling is more than a sport to Cedric Gibson; it is the vehicle through which he found his purpose and the foundation for the Gorilla Lab Wrestling Academy. Cedric founded the Lab to build a family where young athletes transform into individuals of exceptional integrity, consistency, and commitment. His "people-first" philosophy ensures every student feels valued, fostering an environment where technical mastery is matched by character development. Cedric's own journey as a late starter who became a 2-time NCAA All-American and 7-time National Champion serves as a testament to the power of resilience and grit. A proven leader and former UW-Whitewater team captain, he was recently recognized as part of the NCAA D3 Region V Coaching Staff of the Year. By maintaining roles with UW-Whitewater and the Badger RTC, Cedric provides his athletes with a direct bridge to the highest levels of the sport.
Wrestling was always more than a sport to me — it was an outlet that provided a sense of purpose and a community of lifelong mentors. I coach to recreate that safe "happy place" for others, ensuring every athlete feels the same sense of belonging I found on the mat. This mission is rooted in my primary pillar of integrity: true character is forged in the disciplined habits an athlete maintains when no one is watching. My journey began at Madison East High School and led me to UW–Whitewater, where I served as a team captain and earned the 2019 Most Valuable Wrestler award with a 40–5 record. On the mat, I specialize in technical systems like the front headlock and mat returns to help athletes find their competitive edge. Off the mat, I leverage my experience as an apprenticeship manager to guide others in their careers, and in my free time I enjoy traveling, golfing, and spending quality time with my family.