Manny resigns as head wrestling coach

INDIANOLA, Iowa – After leading the Simpson College wrestling program the last four seasons, Clint Manny announced he will resign from his post as head wrestling coach.

The Storm went 6-14 under Manny in 2011-12, the most wins by a Simpson team since 2006. Manny posted a 12-53 dual record during his tenure and coached two top-4 finishers at the Iowa Conference Championships.

"I'd like to thank [director of athletics] John Sirianni for giving me this opportunity and everyone in the Simpson community who made my experience a positive one," Manny said. "I've learned a ton about the sport of wrestling and about developing relationships with student-athletes, parents and co-workers. I've also learned a lot about myself, my coaching philosophy, my teaching philosophy and the way I live my life. The process has come full circle and it's time for a change; it's time for me to take on a new challenge."

Manny was a three-time All-American wrestler for the Storm at 149 pounds, claiming national runner-up honors as a junior and senior in 2004 and 2005. He closed his career with a school-record 148 wins, going 148-24.

He spent one season as a student-assistant and two as an assistant before taking over for Ron Peterson prior to the 2008-09 season.

"We are very sorry to see Clint leave," Sirianni said. "He was an outstanding wrestler for us, a great assistant coach and did a very good job as the head coach while competing in the nation's toughest conference. He has been a good role model and mentor for his student-athletes, has worked his tail off and has always been extremely loyal to Simpson College. We want to wish him the very best of luck and success in all of his future endeavors."

Manny took over a program that had only nine wrestlers. He left with a 19-man roster consisting of 15 freshmen and sophomores.

"Over the last few years we have been able to develop more of a team atmosphere," Manny said. "We were able to compete in duals and have some individuals do some really great things. To leave those guys – especially on an upward swing – is the most difficult part of my decision."

Reflecting upon his 11 years as a student-athlete and coach at Simpson, Manny recalls more than just wins and losses.

"I don't remember the days when I was really upset about a loss or really excited about a win," he said. "But I do remember the days when a kid came up and said 'thanks'. Those are the things that are really rewarding to a coach. Those intangibles that nobody sees mean the most."

A nation-wide search for Manny's replacement will begin immediately, Sirianni said.