Chad Johnson, a De Soto alumnus and 2X State Champion for the Pirates in 2009 and 2010 continued his wrestling career at Augsburg University in Minneapolis, where he became a 2x National Champion and a 4x All-American at 285lbs. After earning his degree in teaching, he moved back to Ferryville, Wisconsin, to work on his family farm. Currently, Chad is married to his wife, Erica, has 4 kids, and teaches middle school social studies at De Soto. He has been coaching the De Soto wrestling team since 2017. Chad is committed to helping each wrestler reach their full potential, both on and off the mat, by instilling a strong work ethic, mental toughness, and a sense of accountability. His goal is not only to build skilled athletes but to shape well-rounded individuals who excel in every aspect of life. 

Brent Hartley, grew up on a dairy farm just south of Seneca, and after marrying his wife Sarah, they moved into the district just south of Ferryville. They have five children: William, Jen, Lily, Ronnie, and Leo. This is his fourth-year coaching wrestling here at De Soto, and has enjoyed getting to know not only the student-athletes but also their families. It’s been a great opportunity, and he’s excited to see what this season brings. 

Coach Fuglsang wrestled at Coe College and has an extensive coaching background, including six years at UW-La Crosse, where he coached multiple All-Americans and national champions. He has been helping at De Soto for six years, contributing his extensive knowledge and expertise to the team. Originally from Maquoketa, Iowa, Coach Fuglsang is a lifelong Hawkeye wrestling fan. He enjoys taking down Seth Greeno and has a memorable moment in trying to recruit Chad Johnson, who he jokingly claims wasn’t tough enough to be an Eagle! 

Luke Moczynski is from Racine, Wisconsin, and attended Oak Creek High School. He has been wrestling since 7th grade and earned a spot as a state qualifier during his high school career. Luke spent his freshman and sophomore years at UW Oshkosh, where he competed as a starter at 149 pounds in his first year. He then transferred to UW-La Crosse and is excited to contribute to the DeSoto Wrestling team this season.  

Will Haeger is from Oak Creek, Wisconsin, and graduated from high school in 2022. He earned recognition as the 220-pound state runner-up. Will is currently in his third year at UW-La Crosse, where he is pursuing a degree in finance. He is excited to have the opportunity to help coach at DeSoto and looks forward to contributing as much as possible to the team.  

Kai Rodgers, a graduate of De Soto, has been a youth wrestling coach for 10 years. He wrestled for De Soto during his high school years and now has one son and two daughters involved in wrestling. Kai firmly believes that wrestling is an excellent sport for kids, as it provides a solid foundation for self-confidence, accountability, discipline, and the ability to overcome challenges. The physical and mental strength developed through wrestling, he feels, will serve them well in all aspects of life they encounter. 

Tom Venner has been coaching youth wrestling at De Soto since 2013. He is a proud father of four sons and one daughter. Having wrestled and played football at both De Soto and UW-Platteville, Coach Tom brings a wealth of experience to the mat. He loves seeing athletes grow in both their skills and their confidence. His favorite wrestling move is the cross face.