Olympic Gold Medalist Takuto Otoguro Joins California Regional Training Center for Two-Year Coaching Apprenticeship

The California Regional Training Center (CA-RTC) and the Cardinal Wrestling Club are proud to announce that Japanese Olympic gold medalist Takuto Otoguro has joined the CA-RTC for a two-year coaching apprenticeship running from August 2026 through August 2028. This prestigious international collaboration is made possible through the support and partnership of the Japanese Olympic Committee.

One of the most accomplished freestyle wrestlers in the world, Coach Otoguro will play a pivotal role in developing athletes across all levels in the Bay Area. He will share his elite technical knowledge, training philosophy, and championship experience with the resident athletes and youth programs.

The CA-RTC coaching staff Chris Ayres, Sean Gray, Patrick Brucki, and Hayden Hidlay are incredibly excited to work directly with Takuto, integrating his elite-level perspective into the daily training environment and learning from his world-class approach to the sport.

“We are thrilled to facilitate this bridge between Japanese and American wrestling styles,” says Lori Ayres, Executive Director of the CA-RTC. “Takuto’s technical mastery is world-class, and having him share his knowledge with our athletes is a transformative opportunity for our program.”

In addition to his coaching responsibilities, Otoguro will be immersing himself in the local culture and community during his time in California. Coach Otoguro’s presence elevates the program and provides a rare opportunity for Bay Area wrestlers to train alongside a true global icon of the sport.

“I am truly grateful for the warm welcome from the California Regional Training Center and the Stanford Wrestling program,” said Takuto Otoguro. “I am very much looking forward to connecting with the wrestling family in the U.S. and throughout California.”