The men’s wrestling team recently replaced one of its coaches.
C.J. Campbell, former head wrestling coach, was fired on March 6 due to unknown circumstances after returning from the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics Championships.
The position was filled on March 2 by Sam Hazewinkel.
Campbell began working for the men’s wrestling team in 2014 and became the head coach in the Fall 2016 academic year. He served for two years. He was previously employed as a head wrestling coach at the University of Jamestown.
Mark Palmer, senior writer for intermatwrestle.com, interviewed C.J. Campbell and summarized the event.
“We originally had a 27-man roster, which was pretty typical for the program in recent years,” Campbell said in the interview. “A total of 10 wrestlers left during the season, including three who I dismissed initially for disciplinary reasons.”
Campbell announced his termination in a Facebook post.
“I have had the honor and privilege of working with some great people, outstanding coaches, and wonderful student-athletes during my time at Oklahoma City University,” he wrote. “This year was the most difficult year I have had as a coach. There were several ups and downs and lots of difficult decisions to make. Ultimately my efforts were not enough to withstand the tides of change. I have been fired as the head wrestling coach at Oklahoma City University and will be looking for additional opportunities to continue coaching.”
Campbell’s team ended with an 8-2 dual-meet record. His team placed 20th in the NAIA this year and 23rd in 2017.
“There are too many young people’s lives who need to be changed for the better, and I feel I am still equipped to make a difference,” Campbell said.
Hazewinkel served as coach at the University of Central Oklahoma for two years and competed in the 2012 Olympic games in freestyle wrestling.
“I’m excited to have someone with Sam’s experience leading Oklahoma City University men’s wrestling,” said Athletic Director Jim Abbott said. “Sam has excelled as a student athlete, competitor and coach, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact that he has on OCU wrestling.”
OCUsports.com published an article about Hazewinkel on March 28.
“I am excited to be the head coach, but I’m more excited to teach the philosophies that will drive these young men to be successful in the classroom, on the mat and in life,” Hazewinkel said in the article. “I couldn’t be more encouraged and excited to get started.”
Wakhid Edy says
where does he work now?