Meet the Coaches

Welcome to Diesel Wrestling Academy – Where Champions Forge Their Path

At Diesel Wrestling Academy, our story isn't just about wrestling; it's about resilience, determination, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Founded by Coach Nicolas Cabrera, a veteran and educator with a passion for molding young athletes into champions both on and off the mat, our academy stands as a beacon of innovation and excellence in the wrestling community.

Our unique approach combines rigorous physical training with mental and emotional development, ensuring our wrestlers are prepared for every challenge. With a curriculum designed around the principles of leverage, efficiency of movement, and strategic control, we empower our athletes to master the art of wrestling, embodying strength, agility, and unyielding perseverance.

Behind every drill, technique, and match is a story of a wrestler overcoming odds, pushing limits, and achieving greatness. Diesel Wrestling Academy is more than just a training facility; it's a family, a community, and a place where legends are born.

Explore Our Programs - Dive into our diverse range of wrestling programs tailored for every age and skill level. From foundational training for beginners to advanced tactics for competitive athletes, discover how you can elevate your wrestling journey with Diesel Wrestling Academy.

Nicolas Cabrera

Youth Head Coach & Owner

At the helm of Diesel Wrestling Academy stands Coach Nicolas Cabrera, a beacon of dedication and expertise in the wrestling community. With a rich tapestry of experiences, Coach Cabrera brings a unique blend of skills to the mat. As a licensed New Jersey teacher and a proud veteran, his approach to coaching transcends the physical aspects of wrestling, embedding academic ethos and a mindset geared towards relentless success.

Certified as a Strength Coach through the prestigious Underground Strength Gym founded by Zach Even-esh, Coach Cabrera ensures that every athlete under his guidance benefits from top-tier strength and conditioning programs. His commitment to excellence is not just limited to physical training; as a mentor, he offers invaluable college and career counseling, preparing his athletes for success beyond the mat.

At Diesel Wrestling Academy, Coach Cabrera’s vision is clear - to forge not just great wrestlers, but well-rounded individuals ready to tackle life’s challenges with the same fervor they bring to the sport. Join us, and experience a program where passion meets precision, and every wrestler is poised for greatness.

Nick Daza

Head Boys Coach

Diesel Wrestling Academy is proud to announce the appointment of Nick Daza as the new Head Boys Coach. Nick Daza brings a wealth of experience and passion for the sport, making him an invaluable addition to our coaching staff. Born in Bogota, Colombia, Nick immigrated to the United States with his parents at the young age of three. He grew up in South Brunswick, New Jersey, where he made a name for himself in the wrestling community. During his time at South Brunswick High School, Nick was a District Champion, a 3X region qualifier, and a 2X County All-Star. His dedication and talent on the mat earned him a spot on the wrestling team at Muhlenberg College in Allentown, Pennsylvania. At Muhlenberg, Nick's achievements extended beyond the wrestling mat. He was recognized as an NCAA Scholar All-American and showcased his skills on an international stage, securing third place at the Copa Sparta Invitational in Puerto Rico. Academically, Nick excelled, earning a degree in Political Science with a double minor in Business and Religion Studies.

Following his collegiate career, Nick continued to contribute to the wrestling community. He volunteered as a coach at Muhlenberg College and founded a nonprofit organization aimed at providing opportunities for wrestlers from underserved communities. Nick's commitment to giving back is rooted in his own experiences and the transformative impact wrestling has had on his life.“Wrestling changed my life and provided me with the opportunity to be a first-generation college graduate and make my family proud. I know I wouldn’t be the person I am today without it, and that’s why I am so passionate about giving back to the sport,” Nick shares.

Before joining Diesel Wrestling Academy, Nick served as an assistant coach at Washington and Jefferson College, further honing his coaching skills and contributing to the development of young athletes. We are thrilled to have Nick Daza lead our boys' program and look forward to the positive influence he will have on our athletes. His dedication, expertise, and passion for wrestling align perfectly with our mission at Diesel Wrestling Academy.

Julia Salata-Vargas

Head Female Coach

🚨 Exciting News from Diesel Wrestling Academy! 🚨

We are thrilled to announce that Julia Salata-Vargas has been appointed as the Head Coach of our Female Program! 🎉 Julia brings an impressive resume with multiple national titles and international competition experience. Her dedication and passion for wrestling have made her a standout figure in the sport.

Julia's Accolades:

🏆 US Open Champion🥇 1x Pan Am Gold Medalist, 2x Bronze Medalist🌍 World Cup Team Member🥇 3x U23 National Champion🥇 2x WCWA National Champion

Julia’s vision is to foster a supportive and challenging environment where female wrestlers can thrive. She aims to develop not just skilled athletes, but strong, confident individuals. Under her leadership, we are confident that Diesel Wrestling Academy will set new standards in excellence and empowerment for female wrestlers.

Join us in welcoming Julia and celebrating this exciting new chapter for Diesel Wrestling Academy! Her official tenure begins September 1st! 📅

Claire Heudes-Cabrera

Yoga, baby & Toddler classes, Youth Fitness Coach & Co- Owner

Diesel Wrestling Academy is thrilled to introduce exciting new programs led by the incredibly talented Coach Claire. With her guidance, our Yoga, Toddlers, and Caregiver Movement classes will nurture both body and mind, ensuring holistic well-being for all participants.

Claire's journey began in France, where she dedicated her time to serving as a Scout counselor. It was here that she developed her passion for creating empowering, nurturing spaces for children to thrive. Her leadership is deeply rooted in fostering confidence and ethical growth in young minds.

After moving to the United States, Claire expanded her expertise as an au pair, caring for young children while teaching French classes for toddlers with Armelle for Kids. Her deep understanding of childhood development was matched only by her ability to inspire and guide young learners.

Claire has practiced yoga for nearly two decades, discovering firsthand the transformative power of connecting mind and body. With a BA in psychology, she understands the critical importance of honoring our bodies and how yoga and meditation bring clarity, balance, and emotional strength. Claire’s approach to wellness goes beyond physical health; she creates spaces where individuals can find mental peace and navigate life's challenges with resilience and grace.

As a mother herself, Claire is keenly aware of the value of community support. She is passionate about offering caregiver classes that encourage bonding with children and foster connections with others in the community. Claire firmly believes that "it takes a village to raise children," and her classes are designed to ensure that no caregiver ever feels alone on that journey.

With Claire's expertise, dedication, and empowering spirit, Diesel Wrestling Academy's new programs promise to uplift and inspire every participant.

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