Michael Wakim Jr. is the new head wrestling coach at Helias.
Wakim comes to Helias from McCluer North High School, where he has served as an assistant coach.
"I have tremendous respect for the wrestling program at Helias and its rich tradition," Wakim said in a release Monday night from the school. "I am very passionate about the sport of wrestling and the wrestlers I coach. I understand the work and time it takes to build a strong program and I am excited for the opportunity Helias has given me."
Wakim was the head assistant for the past four years at McCluer North following five years as a volunteer assistant (2003-07). He was a four-year starter and four-time NAIA national qualifier at Missouri Baptist University, serving as a team captain in his final two seasons.
Wakim is also a USA Wrestling Silver College certified coach, which is the third highest level of coaching offered by USA Wrestling.
"We are excited to welcome Coach Wakim to the Helias Catholic family," Brad Dempsey, Helias activities director, said. "Coach Wakim is a thriving young coach who loves coaching kids. He will achieve at a high level at Helias by developing kids through the sport of wrestling."
Helias will introduce Wakim in a "Meet the Coach" night Wednesday at Rackers Fieldhouse. It will begin at 5 p.m.
Wakim replaces Jacob Wadley, who stepped down after two seasons in the position.