OUR TEAM

Founder and Head Wrestling Coach

A visionary leader in the wrestling community, Justin Accordino is the founder and head wrestling coach at Savage Wrestling Academy. With a storied career and dedication to the sport, Justin brings a wealth of experience and passion to his coaching role.

High School Career: Justin's wrestling journey began at Coughlin High School, where he achieved remarkable success as a high school national champion with an impressive record of 150-11. He was also a 2x PIAA All-State, 2x NHSCA All-American, and a 6-time Fargo All-American.

College Career: Continuing his wrestling career at Hofstra University, Justin was a 4x Team Captain, 2x All-Conference, and 2x NCAA Qualifier, ultimately earning NCAA All-American honors (6th place).

Coaching Achievements: Since transitioning to coaching, Justin has made significant contributions to the sport. He has been a vital part of the New York National Team since 2021 and previously led the Junior and U16 Pennsylvania National Team in 2017. At Ascend Wrestling Club and Chaminade High School, Justin played a key role as Assistant Coach, helping the team secure League and State Championships.

Certifications and Personal Life: Justin holds a USA Wrestling Bronze Certification, demonstrating his commitment to professional development and coaching excellence. Outside of wrestling, Justin is an art teacher at Chaminade High School, where he fosters creativity and artistic expression. His multifaceted expertise and commitment to mentorship make him a guiding force at Savage Wrestling Academy, shaping the future of wrestling both on and off the mat.

Assistant Coach for Middle School and High School Programs

Joe Calderone is the esteemed Assistant Coach for our Middle School and High School Advanced programs at Savage Wrestling Academy. His collegiate wrestling career at Long Island Post is marked by being a three-time Division 3 All-American.

Early Career and Education: In high school, Joe was a two-time New York State place finisher and an NHSCA National finalist, showcasing his prowess on the mat early in his career. His rich background contributes to the diverse style of fundamental techniques and ideal coaching philosophy he brings to our programs.

Coaching Approach: Joe holds a USA Wrestling Bronze Certification, demonstrating his commitment to professional development and coaching excellence. With Joe's guidance, our middle school and high school advanced wrestlers receive unparalleled expertise and mentorship, fostering skill development and a commitment to excellence. Joe Calderone's experience and dedication make him an invaluable part of our coaching team.

Assistant Coach for Middle School and High School Programs

Jermaine John is the dedicated Assistant Coach for our Middle School and High School programs at Savage Wrestling Academy. His wrestling journey began at Bethpage High School and continued at Hofstra University, where he competed as a Division I wrestler.

Early Career and Education: Jermaine's extensive experience and expertise have made him an integral part of our coaching team. He brings his passion for the sport and dedication to excellence to guide and inspire the next generation of wrestlers.

Coaching Philosophy: Jermaine holds a USA Wrestling Bronze Certification, demonstrating his commitment to professional development and coaching excellence. His commitment to mentorship adds invaluable depth to our programs, ensuring that every athlete under his guidance reaches their full potential. Join us in the pursuit of wrestling success with Coach John at Savage Wrestling Academy.

Head Coach for Elementary School Programs

Chris Cardella is the esteemed Elementary School Head Coach at Savage Wrestling Academy. A Walt Whitman High School alum, Chris's wrestling journey began with notable achievements, earning titles as a two-time All-League and All-County wrestler.

Early Career and Education: After high school, Chris joined the prestigious NYAC freestyle wrestling team, where he became a 1-time Masters All-American and a 1-time Masters National Champion. His commitment to youth wrestling development is evident in his roles at Delaware Valley Wrestling Camps and East Stroudsburg Warrior Wrestling Camps.

Coaching Achievements: Chris holds a USA Wrestling Bronze Certification, demonstrating his commitment to professional development and coaching excellence. Currently serving as the Head Wrestling Coach at Walt Whitman High School, Chris also leads the Kids/Future Champions division for Ken Chertow Wrestling Camps. His wealth of experience and passion for nurturing young talents make him an invaluable asset to our elementary wrestling program.

Assistant Coach for Elementary Wrestling Program

Tom DiGennaro is the dedicated Assistant Coach for our elementary wrestling program (grades 1-6) at Savage Wrestling Academy. Tom's wrestling journey began at Massapequa High School in Long Island, NY, where he honed his skills on the mat.

Early Career and Education: Tom became a Division I wrestler at Long Island Post, competing at the highest collegiate level for four years. Beyond his college career, he delved into MMA training, showcasing his versatility and commitment to combat sports.

Coaching and Personal Life: Tom holds a USA Wrestling Bronze Certification, demonstrating his commitment to professional development and coaching excellence. A proud product of Savage Wrestling Academy, Tom embodies the values of our community both on and off the mats. His wealth of experience and dedication make him an invaluable asset to our elementary wrestling program, where he inspires young athletes to reach their full potential.

Assistant Coach for Elementary Wrestling Program

Jared Zenie is the dedicated Assistant Coach for the elementary wrestling program at Savage Wrestling Academy. Jared's wrestling journey began at Walt Whitman High School under the guidance of Coach Chris Cardella.

Early Career and Education: Jared continued his wrestling career at Brockport University, where he further honed his skills on the mat and graduated with a degree in physical education. His commitment to the sport is evident through his active involvement as a coach for Team New York National Team, working with 14U, 16U, and Junior age levels.

Coaching and Certifications: Jared holds both USA Wrestling Bronze and Teal Level Certifications, showcasing his dedication to professional development and coaching excellence. His multifaceted experience in wrestling and coaching makes him an invaluable asset to our elementary wrestling program.

Jared's commitment to fostering young talent and his passion for the sport ensure that our elementary wrestlers receive top-notch coaching and mentorship. His expertise and dedication inspire young athletes to reach their full potential.