YORK, Neb. -- York University is proud to announce the appointment of Shawn Contos as the new head coach of the men's wrestling program. With more than 20 years of coaching and competitive wrestling experience, Contos brings an exceptional background in both collegiate and international wrestling to the Panthers.

Contos most recently launched the men's wrestling program at Hope International University (Calif.), where he laid the foundation for a new era in collegiate wrestling. His ability to build programs from the ground up adds a vital dynamic to York's long-term vision for competitive success.

Previously, he led programs at Lyon College (Ark.), Iowa Wesleyan University (Iowa) -- where he also started the women's wrestling program -- and St. John's Jesuit High School and Academy (Ohio). At the collegiate level, he served as a coach at powerhouse programs such as Pennsylvania State University, where he was part of Cael Sanderson's staff that captured four NCAA National Championships, and Iowa State University, where he helped lead the team to a Big 12 Championship and third-place NCAA finish.

An accomplished wrestler himself, Contos is a four-time USA Wrestling All-American, a junior national champion in both freestyle and Greco-Roman, and qualified for the 2012 U.S. Olympic Trials, where he was ranked in the top 10 nationally.

His wide-ranging coaching resumé includes roles as camp coordinator for Legends of Gold, assistant coach at Neosho Community College and Eastwood High School, and director of the Mat Rat Wrestling Club. At Iowa Wesleyan, he managed recruiting, practice planning, strength programming, social media, scheduling, and athlete development. At St. John's, he more than doubled the program's roster in a single year while also managing strength and inventory operations.

Contos holds certifications including Bronze Level Coaching, USA Wrestling Level One, CrossFit, Level One Olympic Weightlifting, and kettlebell training.

"I'm incredibly honored to join the York University community," said Coach Shawn Contos. "Having recently built a program from scratch at Hope International, I'm excited to now step into a role where I can grow and elevate an established team. My focus is on creating a culture of grit, integrity, and continual improvement."

Athletic Director Brian Walth added, "Shawn brings a rare combination of elite-level experience and a heart for mentorship. His vision aligns perfectly with our mission to develop champions in competition, in the classroom, and in life. We're excited for what lies ahead."

York University Athletics is thrilled to welcome Coach Contos to the Panther family and looks forward to the continued growth and success of the wrestling program under his leadership.