Recognition of Russ Cozart, Brandon High School Teacher and Head Wrestling Coach, Recipient of "USA Wrestling Developmental Coach of the Year" Award (Athletics Department)

The "USA Wrestling Developmental Coach of the Year" award was initiated in 1989 by USA Wrestling, the governing body for amateur wrestling in the country. Russ Cozart, teacher and head wrestling coach at Brandon High School, has received this prestigious award and is the first coach in Florida to receive this honor as "Wrestling Developmental Coach of the Year."

Coach Cozart organized the Brandon Wrestling Club 23 years ago for youngsters ages 5-19 with the objective of teaching the basics of the sport and developing state and national champions. In those 23 years, Brandon Wrestling Club wrestlers have won 80 USA Wrestling national championships and has produced 130 All-Americans.

Coach Cozart has twice been selected USA Wrestling National Coach of the Year, Florida Coach of the Year seven times, and National Federation South Regional Coach of the Year. Coach Cozart competes in amateur wrestling and has won seven Veterans World Championships.

In addition, Coach Cozart's Brandon High School Eagles wrestling teams have not lost a dual match in 26 years. His teams have an ongoing winning streak of 423 consecutive wins; 17 team state championships; 56 individual state championships; and 135 individual state placers.

All District Goals and Critical Success Factors

The award is sponsored by USA Wrestling. There is no additional cost to the district.