PAINESVILLE, Ohio -- Lake Erie College Athletics has announced the hiring of John Penfold as the new head coach of the Storm wrestling program. He becomes the fourth head coach in program history.

"I am excited to announce the hiring of John Penfold as the new head coach of our wrestling team at Lake Erie College," said Molly Hoffman, Executive Director of Athletics. "As a valued alumnus, John brings not only a wealth of experience in wrestling but also a deep understanding of our college's values and traditions. His impressive track record as both a competitor and a coach reflects his commitment to excellence and his ability to inspire student-athletes. I look forward to supporting him in this new role and are eager to see the positive impact he will make on our wrestling team and the broader Lake Erie College community."

A native of Goodrich, Michigan, Penfold has a strong competitive and coaching background. He wrestled at Lake Erie from 2016 to 2022, where he was a three-time regional placer. After graduating, he remained at Lake Erie as a coach from 2022 to 2024, where he helped train four All-Americans and a National Finalist. In 2024-25 he served as an assistant coach at Goodrich High School, guiding four state placers and one state champion during his lone season. In addition to his school coaching roles, he founded Attrition Wrestling, a club which has quickly earned a reputation as one of Michigan's top wrestling programs.

"I am ecstatic to become the next wrestling head coach at Lake Erie College," said Penfold. "I believe the college is moving in the right direction and I'm excited to be back to help get this thing rolling with these guys. We will continue to chase the ultimate goal of bringing a team trophy back home to Lake Erie. I am excited for the future. Rage On!"

Penfold holds three degrees from Lake Erie. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Sport Management with a minor in Coaching in 2021, a Master of Education in 2023, and a Master of Business Administration in 2024.