Built Through Wrestling. United by Community.

At Ukiah Wrestling Club, we help young athletes grow in confidence, discipline, resilience, and character through the sport of wrestling.

Youth wrestlers joining hands in a team huddle during wrestling practice

More Than a Wrestling Club

Ukiah Wrestling Club has deep roots in our community and a passion for developing strong athletes and even better people.

 

We welcome kids of all backgrounds and experience levels and meet them where they are.

 

Through dedicated coaching, supportive families, and a culture of hard work, our wrestlers discover what they are capable of both on the mat and in life.

Our History

Our Founding Story: Board Formation in August 2013

 

The Ukiah Wrestling Club was officially established in August 2013, marking a pivotal moment with the formation of its inaugural board of directors. This group laid the groundwork for what would become a cornerstone of youth athletics in our community. The founding board consisted of:

  • Thomas Fragoza, President

  • Jerry Scarbrough, Vice President

  • Stephanie Dunken, Secretary

  • Laura Christensen, Treasurer

  • Casey Platte, Transportation Liaison

This team brought diverse strengths and a shared commitment to building an organization that would support, mentor, and empower young athletes for years to come.

 

A special acknowledgment is owed to Stephanie Dunken, whose vision and tireless dedication were the driving force behind the club’s establishment. Her leadership was central to navigating the early stages of forming the nonprofit and setting it on a path for long-term success. She was joined in this effort by Phil and Stacey Vannucci, whose insight, encouragement, and hands-on involvement helped transform an idea into a thriving organization.

 

Their combined efforts formed the foundation of Ukiah Wrestling Club’s mission, a mission that continues to grow and inspire today.

Our mission

The mission of Ukiah Wrestling Club is to cultivate a culture of excellence among youth in the Greater Ukiah area by promoting physical fitness, academic achievement, and career readiness. Through dedicated coaching, mentorship and community support, we empower student-athletes from kindergarten through 12th grade to succeed on the mat, in the classroom and in life.

Our values

Our vision is to inspire the next generation of leaders by fostering resilience, discipline and integrity through wrestling.  We strive to build a program that develops champions in the sport and empowers confident, capable individuals who will make a positive impact in the Greater Ukiah community and beyond.

WHAT GUIDES US

CONFIDENCE

Wrestlings helps athletes believe in themselves on and off the mat.

Discipline

Consistent effort and focus create habits that last a lifetime.

Resilience

Wrestlers learn to overcome challenges and keep moving forward.

Community

Teammates become supporters and a network that lasts.

Meet Our Board

Our board members are dedicated parents and community leaders who help guide Ukiah Wrestling Club and support our mission.

Thomas Fragoza, President, Wrestling Coach, and Program Leader for Ukiah Wrestling Club

Thomas Fragoza

President / Wrestling Coach & Program Leader

With decades of experience as a wrestler and coach, Thomas has served as President of Ukiah Wrestling Club since 2015. He continues to lead program development and support competitive opportunities for local athletes.

Christine De Los Santos, Secretary for Ukiah Wrestling Club

Christine De Los Santos

Secretary

A lifelong wrestler, coach, and supporter of Ukiah wrestling, Christine has served as club secretary since 2017. She helps keep the club organized while supporting athletes, families, and the next generation of local wrestlers.

Adam Gouber, Volunteer Coach and Board Member for Ukiah Wrestling Club

Adam Gouber

Member at Large

Adam brings a deep wrestling background as a former competitor, college wrestler, and longtime Ukiah coach. His passion for the sport and commitment to youth development help mentor and strengthen local athletes.

Dolores Silva, Member at Large for Ukiah Wrestling Club

Dolores silva

Member at Large

Dolores joined the Ukiah Wrestling Club Board in 2025 after regularly attending meetings since 2022. As a wrestling parent, she is passionate about giving back and helping more athletes and families experience the discipline, confidence, and growth the sport provides.