Empire Wrestling Academy
About
Empire Wrestling Academy offers both MMA and wrestling training in New York City, led by founder and head coach John Degl, whose credentials include being a 1991 NY State High School Champion, 2x Empire State Games Champion, University Nationals All-American, NCAA National Qualifier for the University of Iowa, and a member of four national championship teams. The gym provides 24/7 access to its flagship facility and an instructional video library, with a sauna coming soon. Members consistently praise the high level of coaching, noting that coaches have a lot of love for the sport and go above and beyond for students, ensuring techniques are done correctly and partners are matched appropriately.
reviewsWhat Members Say
Members consistently praise the high level of coaching, noting that coaches like John Degl are knowledgeable, encouraging, and really care about the students, going above and beyond for the kids. They highlight the friendly yet competitive environment with excellent training partners that push everyone to improve, and many report significant transformations in their wrestling skills after joining. Parents emphasize that their children develop a love for the sport and become great wrestlers due to the diligent coaching and proper technique oversight. Specific mentions include the Youth Eastern States tournament being a fantastic family experience with smooth operations, and no concerns are raised in the reviews.
rate_reviewGoogle Reviews (5)
Matthew Cucolo
3 weeks ago
The level of coaching at Empire is at an extremely high level. The coaches Have a lot of love for this sport and the for kids that show up. I’ve known John Degl for a very long time as he coached and trained my brother 20 years ago to be one of the best in the NY state . And now my son Jackson in a little over one year of wrestling at empire Has not only turned into such a great wrestler already, but it has fallen in love with this sport. Every single coach is incredible And the Level of intensity at practice is top notch. If you want to see your kid get developed And have love for this sport you take them here. I assure you, you will not be disappointed. Best of the best !
Jack Magnani
2 months ago
Great tournament last weekend! Youth eastern states at empire wrestling was a fantastic experience for our entire family. Quick, smooth, and great competition. It’s our second time attending and can’t wait for next years. Thanks again empire wrestling !
Holly Rousseau
10 months ago
Empire Wrestling Academy has been fantastic! I have two teen sons who have wrestled for a few years and have had various coaching opportunities. They have excelled in the sport of wrestling, having placed at the state level and won many matches. Since they've started at Empire they come home praising Empire. Every practice they feel challenged. Every practice the coaches are diligent in identifying if they are partnered up correctly. Every practice the coaches stand by and ensure the techniques are being done correctly. These are a few examples among the many things that stand out with my sons. One of the best things to hear after practice was how much the coaches really care about the students. Thank you Empire!!
Luke Ryan
a year ago
Joining Empire Wrestling Academy has completely transformed my wrestling. I went 0-2 at sectionals my sophomore year before switching to EWA and now as a junior I'm now competing with some of the best kids in the state. The coaching staff is phenomenal—they’re knowledgeable, encouraging, and really focus on each member's individual growth. The environment is both friendly and competitive, with excellent training partners who push you to be your best. Since switching I’ve never looked back. If you’re serious about improving, Empire Wrestling Academy is the place to be.
James Flanagan
3 weeks ago
Empire is the best club around. The coaching and training partners for my son are unparalleled. Coaches go above and beyond for the kids and it shows on the mat. Thanks EWA!
fitness_centerAmenities
Contact
245 NY-100, Somers, NY 10589, USA
scheduleHours
Monday: Open 24 hours
Tuesday: Open 24 hours
Wednesday: Open 24 hours
Thursday: Open 24 hours
Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday: Open 24 hours
Sunday: Open 24 hours
groupCoaches & Instructors
John Degl
Founder & Head Coach
1991 NY State High School Champion, 2x Empire State Games Champion, University Nationals All-American, NCAA National Qualifier for University of Iowa, Member of 4 National Championship Teams
Former University of Iowa wrestler under Dan Gable. 20+ years coaching experience at youth, high school, and collegiate levels. Former Head Assistant Coach at Hofstra University and Head Coach at Mahopac HS.