April 4th, 2024
Grand Island Senior High is pleased to announce Matthew Hernandez as the New Head Coach of the Islander Girls Wrestling program!
He will be stepping-up to lead the team after Jeff Evans will be pursuing other professional opportunities after the school year.
Familiar with the ranks of Grand Island Senior High, Hernandez has been with the program for the last two years. He served as a volunteer Coach in 2022 and an Assistant Coach in the 2023-24 season. No doubt his high-quality work with the team under Coach Evans will help ensure the program’s momentum will continue.
Beyond coaching in Grand Island, Hernandez brings a wealth of experience to the girls wrestling team. He served as a wrestling coach at Jamestown North Dakota’s TAZ Youth Club from 2017-2020, Jamestown High School from 2020-2021, and Hastings College from 2021-2024. Being a part of the GISH ranks is a source of pride for Coach Hernandez.
“The first time Hastings sent me to Grand Island to recruit for Girls Wrestling I was astounded by the energy the team brought.” Hernandez said, “Seeing their passion for the sport and the foundation Coach Evans set made me want to be part of it. Ever since, Coach Evans and I have been close friends. I’m grateful to have learned from him and am excited to lead the Islanders in their next chapter.”
As the activities and sports programs continue to grow, Grand Island Senior High remains committed to providing opportunities for students to learn, compete, and thrive. Hernandez will be a great fit to lead Islander girls wrestling into its third year.
“We are excited about the hire of Coach Hernandez!” Cindy Wells, GISH Director of Athletics & Activities, said, “He brings knowledge, expertise, and passion for the sport and will be a great coach for the GISH girls wrestling team.”
The Islander Girls Wrestling squad brought home the silver medal in this year’s Nebraska State Tournament missing the title by just one point. Junior Anyia Roberts also became the program’s first ever individual State Champion this year. Looking ahead to next season, GISH Girls Wrestling looks to continue their undefeated streak in dual matches and see team success at the state level.
