Hi, my name is Codey Stephens, Head Coach of PYWC. Wrestling has always been a passion of mine that started from an early age. I wrestled for the cyclones in Quincy, IL starting in 2003 and continued my wrestling career in high school for Quincy Notre Dame. During that time, I participated in Purler Academy weekly and also completed J. Robinson Intensive Camp. I have a 8-year-old son, Knox, who wrestles with PYWC, and he loves every minute of it. Wrestling has always been in my blood and is a part of my life in so many ways. I enjoy more than anything seeing the hustle and dedication of our kids on a daily basis. I love this sport and seeing these kids succeed!

"A wrestler doesn't decide to be good just by himself. He needs people behind him to support him." -Ed Ruth

Hi, my name is Eric Nicholson, associate head coach for PYWC. This is my fifth year with PYWC. I grew up in Quincy and have been involved in coaching youth sports for the last 20 years.  Prior to moving to Palmyra, I was an assistant coach with the Champions Wrestling Club in Quincy. Wrestling is a family affair for us, my wife Andrea assists coaching and our son  Cooper (4th grade) are both involved in the sport.  Wrestling is a great way to push yourselves as an athlete and person.  The emotions experienced during a match are above and beyond that of many other sports. It's also not about winning or losing but learning from your matches and working toward your goals.

Hey Everyone my name is Trayton Harris and I am excited to be returning to PYWC as an assistant coach this year. I'm originally from Humbolt, IA and I started wrestling in Kindergarten, through my senior year. During that time I was a 7 time state qualifier and 3 time state placer. I have wrestled on numerous national teams traveling to tournaments in placed like Las Vegas and Virginia Beach. Outside of wrestling I work as a case manager for individual with developmental disabilities and I am working towards my masters degree in mental health. My wife Rachel and I live in Quincy and are expecting our first child this winter! Wrestling has given me so much throughout my life and I am beyond grateful to have the opportunity to give back to the sport and your PYWC wrestlers.

Hi, my name is Tyson Latner, assistant coach for PYWC. I have been involved in wresting since I was 4 years old all the way through High School. Wrestling has always been a huge part of my life and growing up in a family of multiple wrestlers it was a true family affair.I am originally from Kansas City and my wife Josie and I recently moved to Quincy, we are grateful to be a part of this community and have the chance to give back to the sport that has meant so much to me throughout my life. What I love most about wrestling is watching the kids work hard, challenge themselves and grow. Wrestling teaches discipline, confidence and resilience, but intern it creates friendships and character that extends beyond the mat. I look forward to helping shape the next generation of wrestling again this season. "Hard work beats talent when talent doesn't work hard" -Dan Gable

With over 10 years of wrestling experience and four years of coaching at palmyra , I am passionate about helping young athletes reach their full potential both on and off the mat. My background also includes martial arts training during my service in the U.S. Army, where I developed the discipline, resilience, and leadership skills that I bring to every practice.

Wrestling has had a tremendous impact on my life, teaching me perseverance, accountability, confidence, and mental toughness. Coaching gives me the opportunity to give back to a sport that has given so much to me.

My goal is to build a strong, positive wrestling club where every athlete has the opportunity to grow, regardless of experience level. I believe in developing not only successful wrestlers but also respectful, hardworking young men and women who carry the lessons learned on the mat into every aspect of their lives. By investing in our athletes today, we’re helping build a foundation for their future success—in sports, school, and beyond.

Hello, my name is Travis Hays. I am the president of the PYWC. I have 3 kids, Walker (11), Sawyer (8) and Kenlee (2). My son, Walker, is in his 5th season wrestling with PYWC and I enjoy watching the growth he has each year and the friendships he has made through the club and the way they all support one another on and off the mat. My daughter Sawyer will be trying out the sport this year and I cannot wait to watch her fall in love with the sport like Walker and I have. I look forward to serving the club!

My name is Abby Kerkhoff and I’m excited to serve as the PYWC Board Treasurer. My husband and I grew up in Quincy and moved to Palmyra in 2023 after being in NC for 17 years. This will be our son Nathan’s (8) third year wrestling. I truly believe wrestling is the hardest sport out there. The work and accountability expected of these kids is incredible. They’re learning lessons and making friends to last a lifetime.  

“We don’t lose, we learn” - Coach Rife 



Hello, my name is Taylor Stephens, and I’m excited to step into the role of Parent Representative for the Palmyra Youth Wrestling Club! Wrestling has been such a positive influence for our son Knox —building confidence, discipline, and teamwork—and I look forward to supporting both our athletes and families this season. My goal is to be a bridge between parents and the club, helping with communication, sharing important updates, and making sure every family feels welcomed and connected. I’m eager to contribute ideas, support events, and cheer on our wrestlers as they continue to grow on and off the mat. I look forward to a great season ahead!

Hello, my name is Katherine Huff and I am a PYWC parent rep. My husband Rob and I call Palmyra home along with our kids. Wrestling has been rooted in my family since I could remember and now my son, Cain (7) is continuing that tradition as we enter his third year in PYWC. I am excited to serve on our board and even more excited to see our athletes thrive in this sport. My favorite thing about wrestling is the confidence it helps build in a child and how it shows them what they are truly capable of. 

“Everything you want is on the other side of fear.”

George Addair

Coming Soon.....