PRTC Wrestling

PRTC Athletes Gain Global Experience on Training Trip to Japan

2025-09-17

The Pennsylvania Regional Training Center (PRTC) recently returned from an international training trip to Japan, where its athletes immersed themselves in both elite-level wrestling and Japanese culture. Over the course of a week, the team trained under the guidance of Olympic Champion Mitsuru Sato at two of Japan’s most prestigious wrestling institutions: Senshu University and Nippon Sports Science University.

The trip brought together top wrestling talent from both the United States and Japan, creating a rare opportunity to exchange techniques, share training philosophies, and build lasting friendships across cultures. For the PRTC athletes, the experience was both demanding and inspiring.

Each day featured three-hour practices that tested both body and mind. Workouts began with international warm-up drills before shifting into highly specific technical instruction, and each session included five to six full live matches per athlete. The intensity mirrored the standard of excellence long associated with Japanese wrestling.

PRTC Senior Athlete Darian Cruz, who is preparing for the 2025 Senior World Championships, reflected on the trip:

“From training with some of the best athletes in the sport of wrestling—in the entire world for that matter—to submerging in a culture of honor, discipline, and respect, I can speak for the group when I say we pushed our limits mentally, physically, and culturally. Not a single student-athlete on this trip had truly left the country. This experience will give the Quakers the kick start to a season that will ultimately result in the collection of our hardware come March! Again, thank you to all those who supported and continue to support the dreams and goals of these incredibly ambitious young men. This is just the beginning of what your support can provide.”

Beyond the mats, the athletes explored Japanese culture. They wandered through historic temples, tasted authentic ramen in tucked-away restaurants, and marveled at the energy of modern shopping districts. For many, it was their first time abroad, adding an invaluable layer of personal growth to the athletic experience.

Two-time NCAA All-American CJ Composto also shared his perspective:

“When I started wrestling at five years old, I never would've thought eighteen years later I’d go on a training trip to Japan with my best friends. All the opportunities I’ve received through wrestling with the PRTC have been a blessing.”

PRTC Chief Operating Officer Kevin McGuigan emphasized the importance of the trip:

“Training in Japan with Olympic Champion Mitsuru Sato and some of the world’s best athletes provides invaluable experience for our wrestlers. Opportunities like this accelerate their growth on and off the mat, and we’re grateful to our supporters who make them possible.”

The week in Japan was more than just training; it was an experience that blended wrestling, culture, and camaraderie—an international journey that will shape the PRTC athletes both as competitors and as individuals for years to come.

Your browser does not support HTML5 video.

29th Keystone Classic Set for November 23, 2025

2025-04-22

The 2025 PRTC Keystone Classic promises to be an exciting early season display of high paced NCAA Division 1 Wrestling action!

Shane Jones Joins PRTC

2025-07-17

World Championship Competitor Shane Jones Joins PRTC

Darian Cruz Dominates Grand Prix of Spain

2025-07-08

Darian Cruz dominates in Madrid. Wins Gold at 57kg at Grand Prix of Spain.

Kevin McGuigan Promoted to Chief Operating Officer

2025-05-06

The Board of the Pennsylvania Regional Training Center (PRTC) is proud to announce the promotion of Kevin McGuigan to Chief Operating Officer. After serving with distinction as the Director of Operations, McGuigan’s elevation to COO represents a commitment to continuity and operational excellence within the PRTC.

Brandon Slay Moving On from Executive Director of the PRTC

2025-04-22

After more than eight years of transformative leadership, Olympic Gold Medalist Brandon Slay will step down as Executive Director and Head Coach of the Pennsylvania Regional Training Center (PRTC). Slay and his family will relocate to Springdale, Arkansas this July, where he will take on a dual role as Executive Director of SportsLife Wrestling, a Christian-based leadership development organization, and Head Coach of the G1 Training Center, a new training facility focused on the development of youth, elite high school, and senior level wrestlers. Slay will immediately move on to the PRTC Board of Directors, continuing his service to the organization.

PRTC Heading to Las Vegas for US Open

2025-04-22

PRTC heading to Las Vegas to compete at Senior Nationals and U20 Nationals at the US Open.

PRTC Seeking Finance Intern

2025-04-22

The Pennsylvania Regional Training Center is seeking a finance intern for the 2025-26 fiscal year. Former finance intern Lorelai Mesaros has moved on to internships with Northwestern Mutual and PNC Bank.

The PRTC Finance Intern will learn about the operation of a 501c3 non-profit organization while contributing to donor relations, bookkeeping, and financial analysis. The position is designed for an undergraduate student with an interest in finance.

All inquiries should be made to PRTC Director of Operations Kevin McGuigan at kevin@pennsylvaniartc.org.

PRTC Developmental Training Begins on April 13th!

2025-04-22

Spring training with the PRTC is back!

PRTC Keystone Classic Field is Set and Tickets are on Sale!

2024-07-22

The 2024 PRTC Keystone Classic promises to be an exciting early season display of high paced NCAA Division 1 Wrestling action!

The field has changed a bit and we're excited to host some new teams in the historic Palestra, our "house of wrestling." This year the teams participating will be Central Michigan, Drexel, Edinboro, F&M, Harvard, Lock Haven, Penn, and Virginia Tech.

The event, held on six mats and featuring nearly 200 athletes will begin at 9:30am on November 24, 2024. Local vocal artist Brooke Jamison will help kick off the tournament with her amazing rendition of the "Star Spangled Banner."

Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased here.

Sponsorship opportunities are available as well. For more information contact PRTC General Manager Kevin McGuigan at eleni@pennsylvaniartc.org.