A Historic First for Central California Wrestling: CCRTC Earns Regional Training Center Status
MODESTO, Calif. — The Central California wrestling community has reached a historic milestone with the official establishment of the Central California Regional Training Center (CCRTC), creating a pathway for local athletes to access world-class training and development opportunities without leaving the region.
Regional Training Centers (RTCs) serve as the foundation of elite wrestling development in the United States. Traditionally affiliated with NCAA Division I wrestling programs, RTCs provide opportunities for athletes of all ages to train alongside high-level coaches, national-caliber competitors, and Olympic-level mentors while fostering the growth of wrestling throughout their communities.
The establishment of CCRTC places Central California among a select group of wrestling communities nationwide capable of providing this level of developmental opportunity. More significantly, CCRTC is one of the very few RTCs in the country affiliated with a high school-based wrestling organization, demonstrating the commitment of local coaches, athletes, families, and supporters to building a sustainable pipeline of wrestling excellence in the region.
The mission of CCRTC extends beyond developing elite competitors. The organization aims to strengthen wrestling opportunities throughout Central California by providing access to advanced coaching, educational clinics, training camps, mentorship opportunities, and exposure to nationally recognized athletes and coaches.
“This Regional Training Center is a win for our entire community,” said CCRTC Head Coach Emilio Saavedra. “It means local kids, regardless of their background, will have access to world-class wrestling development right in their own backyard. We have world-class clinicians, coaches, and athletes coming in to help elevate our RTC athletes to compete at the national level, and we have a lot in store this summer that you won’t want to miss.”
Saavedra emphasized that the benefits of the RTC extend beyond the athletes currently participating in the program.
“Many kids are already feeling the difference, and if you haven’t gotten involved yet, now is the time—before it’s too late. Let’s focus on what matters most: getting better together as an area and building something special for the next generation of wrestlers.”
The creation of CCRTC reflects years of growth throughout Central California wrestling. Athletes from the region have increasingly qualified for state and national-level competition, while local clubs, schools, and coaches have worked collaboratively to elevate the standard of wrestling across the area.
Through the RTC model, athletes will have increased opportunities to:
- Train with nationally recognized coaches and clinicians
- Participate in advanced technical and developmental training
- Access high-level competitive opportunities
- Learn from current and former collegiate, national, and international wrestlers
- Develop within a structured pathway that supports long-term athletic growth
Most importantly, CCRTC aims to create opportunities that previously required athletes and families to travel significant distances or relocate entirely to access.
The establishment of CCRTC sends a clear message: elite wrestling development is no longer limited to major metropolitan areas or Division I college campuses. Central California athletes now have access to a nationally recognized development model within their own community.
As CCRTC enters its inaugural year, the organization remains focused on its long-term vision of elevating wrestling throughout the region while creating opportunities for athletes at every level of the sport.
For more information about CCRTC programming, events, camps, and athlete opportunities, visit the CCRTC website and follow CCRTC on social media for upcoming announcements.