St. Thomas Aquinas High School (STA) announced today the appointment of Luis Filipe as the new Head Coach of the STA Wrestling Program. Coach Filipe brings with him a decade of coaching experience, including two years as an assistant at St. John Vianney and leadership of his own wrestling club since 2019.
“My mission is to rebuild the St. Thomas Aquinas wrestling program by creating a culture of excellence rooted in hard work, accountability, and respect,” Filipe said. “I’m committed to helping each athlete grow on and off the mat, offering high-level technique, mentorship, and a clear path toward academic and athletic success. Together, we’ll develop champions in wrestling and in life.”
Coach Filipe’s coaching résumé is exceptional at both the state and national levels. In New Jersey, he has trained two NJSIAA state champions, three state finalists, more than 15 state place winners, over 25 region champions, and dozens of district champions. On the national stage, his athletes have earned recognition as Super 32 All-Americans, US Open place winners, Fargo All-Americans, and NHSCA All-Americans.
As an athlete, Coach Filipe’s accolades include induction into the NJSIWA Hall of Fame, being a 2-time NHSCA All-American, 2-time NJ All-Star Match participant, and a member of Team New Jersey. He was part of the nationally ranked Long Branch High School team, which climbed as high as No. 16 in the nation and held the No. 1 spot in New Jersey. During his high school career, his teams amassed 100 victories, went 26-0 in one season, and captured multiple state sectional, group, and conference championships.
“Coach Filipe brings a winning mindset, deep experience, and a student-first approach that aligns perfectly with our mission,” said Harry Ziegler, STA Principal. “We are excited to welcome him to the STA family and confident he will build a program that our school community will be proud of.”