At Apex Wrestling Academy, our mission is to elevate the sport of wrestling in Southwest Michigan by providing high-quality, character-driven training for athletes of all ages and experience levels.
We are committed to helping each wrestler—from Pre-K beginners to high school competitors—unlock their potential, develop mental and physical toughness, and grow both on and off the mat.
Through expert coaching, a supportive team environment, and a focus on long-term athlete development, we strive to empower every individual to reach their personal Apex—in wrestling and in life.
At Apex Wrestling Academy, we're dedicated to building strong, confident, and skilled wrestlers from Pre-K through 12th grade.
Advanced Youth
5:00-6:15pm
MS/HS Technique
5:00-6:30pm
MS/HS Advanced
6:30-8:00pm
Advanced Youth
5:00-6:15pm
MS/HS Technique
5:00-6:30pm
MS/HS Advanced
6:30-8:00pm
MS/HS Sunday Grinds
12:00-1:30pm
At Apex Wrestling Academy, we offer age-appropriate, skill-based programs designed to meet each athlete where they are—and help them grow. Whether your child is brand new to the sport or gearing up for state-level competition, there's a place for them here.
2 days / week
Designed for experienced youth wrestlers who are looking to improve their skills and compete in the fall. Get ready for your upcoming season.
2 days / week
Designed for experienced wrestlers who want to take their skills to the next level. We'll focus on high-level technique and coaching needed to perfect it.
3 days / week
Designed for athletes committed to competing this fall. Looking for the best wrestlers in Southwest Michigan to train and compete with each other. Spots are limited - take the next step in your wrestling journey.
Meet our experienced coaching staff dedicated to developing wrestlers of all skill levels through expert instruction and mentorship.
J.D. Greathouse is a 2017 graduate of Mason High School where he earned all-state honors twice throughout his career. He also garnered over 130 career wins.
Greathouse wrestled at Indiana University, a Division I institution in the Big 10, which is widely considered the toughest wrestling conference in the country. He was coached by Duane Goldman, a 4x National Finalist for the Iowa Hawkeyes and Pan Am Games Gold Medalist.
Greathouse has been active on the high school coaching scene and has already helped send 5 individuals to D1, D2, NAIA, or NJCAA schools to continue their wrestling careers.
Co-founder of Apex Wrestling Academy
Coach Nico Lopez has been immersed in the sport of wrestling for his entire life and has spent the past 25 years coaching in the Kalamazoo area. His wrestling journey began at a young age and spanned multiple states, eventually leading to a standout high school career at Kalamazoo Central, where he was a four-year varsity letterman, amassed over 100 wins, and was a state qualifier.
Following high school, Coach Lopez competed collegiately for two years at Muskegon Community College. After concluding his competitive career, he transitioned directly into coaching, spending the next two decades assisting at Kalamazoo Central.
Coach Lopez has also been deeply involved with USA Wrestling, particularly in freestyle and Greco-Roman disciplines. He was a multiple-time Team Michigan member, a national qualifier, and competed on the national stage at the Junior Nationals in Fargo, North Dakota.
In 2021, Coach Lopez and his family relocated to Mattawan, Michigan. He became the head coach of the Mattawan Wrestling program in 2023. Under his leadership, the program has thrived, and in 2025, he was honored as the MWA Regional Coach of the Year.
Coach Lopez is known for his coaching philosophy centered around respect, discipline, and the belief that wrestling provides life lessons that extend far beyond the mat. He and his wife Andrea—his high school sweetheart from Kalamazoo—have been married for 20 years. Together, they have three children: MaKenna (23), Cohen (19), and Kendall (12), all of who or whom have wrestled.
Co-founder and Coach
James, a lifelong wrestling advocate and co-founder of Apex Wrestling Academy in Kalamazoo, brings over 30 years of experience as a wrestler and coach. A 2002 State Champion for Portage Northern High School, he has a proven track record of mentoring athletes to excel both on and off the mat. At Apex, James emphasizes technical skills, discipline, and resilience for wrestlers of all ages. As a proud father, he coaches his sons Breckin, Logan, and Maverick, fostering a tight-knit community. Also leading Apex Outdoor Solutions and Bippus Construction, James infuses his academy with a strong work ethic and dedication to creating a supportive environment where wrestlers thrive.
