Olympic Gold Medalist Joins California Wrestling Program

A wrestling legend is crossing the Pacific to share his championship secrets with the next generation of American athletes.

Takuto Otoguro, who won Olympic gold for Japan at the 2020 Tokyo Games, is joining the California Regional Training Center for a two-year coaching apprenticeship starting August 2026. The collaboration between the Japanese Olympic Committee and the California program marks a groundbreaking cultural exchange in the wrestling world.

The 2020 freestyle wrestling champion will work directly with athletes at all levels across the Bay Area. His role goes beyond teaching moves on the mat. He'll share the training philosophy and mental approach that carried him to the top of the podium.

"Takuto's technical mastery is world-class, and having him share his knowledge with our athletes is a transformative opportunity for our program," says Lori Ayres, Executive Director of the CA-RTC. The center's coaching staff, including Chris Ayres, Sean Gray, Patrick Brucki, and Hayden Hidlay, will integrate Otoguro's elite perspective into daily training sessions.

For young wrestlers in California, this means unprecedented access to international excellence. They'll learn techniques refined at the highest levels of competition and gain insights into how champions prepare mentally and physically.

The Ripple Effect

This partnership creates benefits that extend far beyond individual athletes. When Olympic-level coaches share their expertise, they elevate entire programs and communities. The wrestlers Otoguro trains today could become tomorrow's Olympic medalists, carrying forward the techniques and mindset he brings from Japan.

The exchange also strengthens bonds between two nations with proud wrestling traditions. American wrestlers will gain exposure to Japanese technical precision, while Otoguro immerses himself in California's wrestling culture and community.

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

The timing couldn't be better for American wrestling, which continues building momentum toward future Olympic Games. Having a recent gold medalist in the training room provides daily inspiration and proof that Olympic dreams are achievable.

Bay Area wrestlers now have a front-row seat to excellence that few athletes anywhere get to experience.