Justin Halaska is in his first season as the assistant women's wrestling coach at Baldwin Wallace University in 2025-26. Halaska brings experience, passion, and dedication to every athlete he coaches. A 2013 Parma Senior High School graduate and two-time OHSAA Division I state placer, Halaska continued his wrestling career in college at NCAA Division III Heidelberg University and NCAA Division II University of Indianapolis. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Indianapolis.
Halaska began coaching at the high school level with Parma, guiding the JV and Varsity boy's wrestling programs for five years. He founded girl's wrestling program in the Parma City School District, starting with just six athletes. After Parma closed, he moved to Normandy High School, growing the girl's program from two participants to over 35 in just two years. He also created the Pink Flamingos, a district-wide middle school girl's wrestling program for grades 5–8, now serving more than 20 athletes.
In the spring of 2025, Halaska launched Apex Girl's Wrestling, an all-girl's Freestyle and Greco-Roman wrestling club and one of the few of its kind in Northern Ohio. Apex provides a unique and empowering environment where female athletes can develop skills, compete at high levels, and grow in confidence. Throughout his career, Halaska has mentored numerous state and national-caliber athletes, building strong programs and empowering athletes to reach their full potential.
Halaska is excited to begin his tenure at Baldwin Wallace and join the Yellow Jacket family, contributing to the continued success of the wrestling program.
