About the academy
Who we are
At PSF Wrestling Academy, we are committed to fostering the next generation of champions by building a culture of hard work, discipline, and excellence. Our coaching staff, which includes Michael Pixley and Alejandro Wajner, brings years of elite-level experience to the mat. Their combination of wrestling and grappling expertise ensures that our athletes receive top-tier training and guidance, no matter their level of experience.
Whether you’re a beginner just stepping on the mat or an experienced athlete striving for national titles, PSF Wrestling Academy offers a structured, supportive environment for growth. Our coaches are committed to teaching not just wrestling techniques, but the principles of hard work, resilience, and determination—because at PSF, we know Hard Work Works. Through personalized training, competitive opportunities, and a focus on mental and physical development, our athletes gain the tools they need to succeed both on the mat and in life.
Michael Pixley
Michael Pixley is a coach at PSF Wrestling Academy and a standout athlete in both wrestling and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). As a wrestler, Pixley was a dominant force, winning both an NAIA and NCAA Division II National Championship. His upper-body wrestling, particularly techniques like collar ties and slide-bys, allowed him to control and outmaneuver his opponents.
After transitioning to BJJ, Pixley joined Pedigo Submission Fighting (PSF), where his wrestling background made him a versatile competitor. He blends powerful takedowns and positional control with an effective submission game, including his signature D'Arce choke. Pixley earned gold at the IBJJF No-Gi World Championships and recently took first place at the 2024 No-Gi Pans at purple belt. One of his crowning achievements came at the 2024 ADCC World Championships, where he defeated world-renowned Nicholas Meregali, further cementing his reputation as a top grappler in both BJJ and wrestling.
In addition to his competitive success, Pixley is dedicated to coaching the next generation of wrestlers at PSF Wrestling Academy. He focuses on teaching young athletes the fundamentals of wrestling and instilling the same work ethic and discipline that have been key to his own success. Through his coaching, Pixley aims to develop not only skilled wrestlers but also resilient individuals who understand the value of hard work and perseverance.
Alejandro wajner
Alejandro Wajner is a highly accomplished collegiate wrestler and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) competitor. He wrestled at Lindenwood University, where he developed a strong technical foundation and competed at a high level. This wrestling experience set the stage for his transition to BJJ, becoming one of the first to live in the Daisy Fresh and compete under Heath Pedigo.
Alejandro became a 2024 Masters World Champion at brown belt in BJJ, further solidifying his reputation as a versatile and skilled grappler. He also earned a bronze medal at the 2024 No-Gi Pans in the Adult Brown Belt division, showcasing his ability to compete at the highest levels of the sport.
As a coach at PSF Wrestling Academy, Alejandro combines his expertise in wrestling and BJJ to provide a unique, well-rounded approach to training. His coaching focuses on developing strong fundamentals while incorporating advanced grappling techniques. Alejandro is passionate about instilling hard work, discipline, and mental toughness in his athletes, helping them excel both on the mat and in life. His experience as a competitor and coach makes him a valuable mentor for aspiring wrestlers and grapplers.
Assistant Coaching staff
At PSF Wrestling Academy, our assistant coaching staff is integral to our athletes' development, bringing a wealth of experience, knowledge, and dedication to the mat.
Dom Locricchio is a vital part of our coaching team with a focus on building a strong wrestling foundation. Dom specializes in working with athletes of all skill levels, ensuring they master essential techniques while building confidence and discipline. Dom’s dedication to the team is contagious, and he works closely with each athlete to push them to reach their full potential. Whether refining basic skills or preparing for competition, Dom helps athletes build both physical and mental strength to succeed in the sport.
Jason Shaw brings a strong blend of competitive success and coaching versatility to the wrestling room. A four-time state placer and two-time state finalist in high school, Shaw knows what it takes to compete at a high level—and how to get athletes there.
He works with wrestlers of all experience levels, from first-year beginners to advanced competitors, focusing on building strong fundamentals, improving technique, and fostering mental toughness.
Together, Dom and Shaw form a dynamic coaching duo that works to foster a supportive, disciplined, and challenging environment at PSF Wrestling Academy, ensuring that athletes develop both the physical and mental tools necessary for success in wrestling and beyond.
