For the 2024 season, the Fords wrestling team has undergone a coaching change.
New head coach, alum Chris Kober ’17, wrestled and then coached at Campbell University in North Carolina. This fall, Mr. Kober was appointed as head coach and director of the wrestling program.
Under his leadership, the team has begun to see success early into the season. The Fords recently faced off against Westtown, resulting in a 44-21 win.
In early December, the varsity roster traveled to a tournament in Pottstown, mentally and physically prepared due to Coach Kober’s intense practices. All three of the wrestling team’s captains set the tone.
Sixth Form captains Quinn Sullivan and Zach Moua finished in fourth place and Fifth Form captain Ian Thomas placed third. Thomas went 4-1 with two tech falls, one pin, and a major decision.
Thomas was excited about the game-changing attitude of the team.
“I left it all on the mat,” Thomas said. “We have some real gritty guys and a lot of opportunity.”
In the last three years, the team has had three different head coaches, exposing the team to several philosophies and coaching styles, breeding diverse styles among the wrestlers. Still, the team appears to have transitioned well to Coach Kober’s program.
“Coach Kober is fully committed to helping his wrestlers reach their full potential.”
Zach Moua ’25
“I think the transition has been smooth,” Moua said. “With the same assistant coaches here, there is a sense of familiarity, but Coach Kober has quickly built strong relationships with the wrestlers.”
As more wrestling meets arrive, Coach Kober has been having the team train rigorously. He emphasizes mental toughness and being the most conditioned man on the mat.
“Getting pinned is a choice, so push yourself to the limit,” Coach Kober said. He means business in the wrestling room. It is apparent that he cares deeply about the team and for each wrestler.
“Whether it’s teaching new techniques pushing us to the limits or dedicating time outside of our regular practice,” Moua said, “Coach Kober is fully committed to helping his wrestlers reach their full potential.”
