Episode 7: Global Reach, Novel Approach – Coach Carolyn’s Trip to Finland

In this episode of the Wrestling Prep Podcast, head coach Carolyn Wester sits down with Finnish coaches Niko Kettunen, Ville Heino, and Jere Heino to discuss her recent coaching clinic in Finland. The trip, initially sparked by casual conversations, quickly turned into an impactful week of training and learning. Carolyn’s unique Body Leveraging and wrestling technique and coaching philosophy left a strong impression on the group, as coaches and athletes alike experienced new ways to approach movement and technique. The episode highlights the long-term impact Carolyn’s work might have on Finland’s wrestling coaching and culture, and how this collaboration could shape the future of the sport in this country.

Niko Kettunen is the national freestyle and women’s team coach of the Finnish Wrestling Federation.

Ville Heino is the manager of coaches education of the Finnish Wrestling Federation. As an athlete, Ville was 7th at the world championships in 2018 (86 kg) and was a two-time NCAA qualifier at Campbell University (2013-2017).

Jere Heino is a coach in the Finnish Wrestling Federation. As an athlete, Jere placed 5th at the U20 World Championships (125 kg), was a multiple-time age group placer at the European Championships, and a three-time NCAA qualifier at Campbell University (2015-2020).