Prieto Tapped to Build Historic Women’s Wrestling Program at Garden City
Garden City, KS-Garden City Community College announced the hiring of Carlos Prieto as the first head coach of the newly established women's wrestling program during a press conference in the Hall of Fame Room at the Dennis Perryman Athletic Complex on Wednesday.
Prieto brings more than 26 years of wrestling coaching experience and a proven record of success at both the boys' and girls' high school levels. A graduate of Fort Hays State University and a 1986 Scott Community High School alumnus, Prieto most recently led the Garden City High School wrestling program, where his teams captured four consecutive Kansas Class 6A state championships from 2013 to 2016.
"This is an historic day," Prieto said. "It's a great opportunity for young ladies, and I'm really excited. This is an incredible opportunity, and I am grateful to be part of the inaugural class of women's wrestlers at Garden City Community College."
Under his leadership, Garden City produced 21 individual state champions, 37 state finalists, and 102 state medalists. Prieto has been recognized multiple times by the Kansas Wrestling Coaches Association, earning Coach of the Year honors in 2013, 2016, 2022, and 2023, and was named the National Wrestling Coaches Association Coach of the Year in 2016.
"We are thrilled to welcome Coach Prieto to the Broncbuster family," said Mike Pilosof, GCCC Director of Athletics. "His experience, leadership, and commitment to developing student-athletes on and off the mat make him the perfect fit to launch our women's wrestling program."
GCCC President Dr. Ryan Ruda said Prieto's hiring represents both a milestone and a reflection of the college's ongoing investment in expanding athletic opportunities.
"Coach Prieto's track record speaks for itself," Ruda said. "He has built programs founded on discipline, hard work, and integrity. His leadership will not only help establish a successful women's wrestling program but also reinforce GCCC's mission of empowering students to achieve excellence in every arena."
Vice President of Student Services and Athletics Dr. Colin Lamb echoed that sentiment.
"We're excited to have someone of Coach Prieto's caliber leading this program," Lamb said. "He understands the culture of Garden City and the importance of building something that lasts. His ability to connect with student-athletes and develop them both personally and competitively will set the foundation for long-term success."
In addition to his coaching success, Prieto has organized numerous wrestling camps and community fundraisers and is known for fostering a competitive, character-driven culture. A bilingual educator and longtime Garden City resident, he currently teaches physical education at Bernadine Sitts Intermediate Center.
"I don't want to sound like I'm bragging, but I came here to win," Prieto added. "There are so many quality women's wrestlers right in our back yard. So, I know we will be successful."
Prieto said he's eager to build a program that reflects both the tradition of excellence in Garden City wrestling and the opportunities emerging in the women's game.
"I believe in holding student-athletes to high standards and helping them believe in themselves," Prieto said. "My philosophy has always been simple: Expect great things, and great things will happen."
Garden City Community College announced earlier this fall that it would add women's wrestling beginning in the 2025–26 academic year. The program will compete beginning in 2026-27, joining a growing number of colleges across the country supporting one of the nation's fastest-growing women's sports.