AZ Wrestler got to pick the brain of new Arizona State University Assistant Coach, Ben Askren about his new position, his view on ASU wrestling, his history in the sport and how he intends to help the Sun Devils get back to the highest level of success.

What do you find most rewarding—and most challenging—about being a collegiate coach that led you to taking this position?

Most challenging would be getting athletes to see situations the same way that I do.  Most rewarding and why I coach is helping kids reach their goals and develop into great human beings.  Seeing Mark Ellis win a national title this year I got a feeling inside that I know that no other profession in the world could provide me with.

What is your coaching style?

I really am kind of passive bc I feel like by the time people are in college they are ready to make their own decisions on where they want to go in wrestling in life, I am just there to help and guide them into making good decisions.  However I am still trying to figure out the most effective way to coach.

When did you get involved in wrestling, and why?

I got involved in wrestling bc my dad put me in all sports and I stuck with it bc I loved the individual part of the sport.

What have been some of your greatest accomplishments?

2x national champion, 2x Hodge trophy winner, 2x Schalles winner, 2008 olympian

What is it that you love about wrestling?

With wrestling you get out of the sport what you are willing to put in and I really feel that anyone can be successful.

With all of your success, both as a wrestler and now as a coach, have you ever experienced a humbling moment on the mat?

I have had too many humbling moments to count, the important part is that I always got back up to battle again.  Everyone needs to be humbled from time to time, it is a very healthy process

Who has been the biggest influence on you?

I have had too many to name one but to start my family, they are all extremely hard working and humble people.  My HS coach, John Mesenbrink, bc he is one of the most passionate coaches I have ever met.  Coach Charles bc he is always figuring out a new way to look at the world.  And from my passion of reading Steve Prefontaine, Lance Armstrong, and Muhammad Ali.

What are your goals for yourself and the Sun Devils this year?

To start get every kid to compete with confidence and passion, if we can just make that happen we will be headed on the path the greatness and national titles will be right around the corner.

What advice can you give to the high school kids of Arizona who want to wrestle in college?

Dont make any excuses, if you want something bad enough you can achieve.  It takes the right mental attitude with passion and persistence to make a champion.

What advice can you give to the the Arizona Wrestling community to help promote wrestling at ASU?

Come watch us we will not disappoint you, get to know us and you will love us.

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