Zain Retherford, a beloved figure of the Penn State Nittany Lions, recently saw a lifelong dream come true by qualifying for his first Olympic Games. In a moment that will go down in U.S. wrestling history, Retherford showcased his incredible skill and tenacity at the U.S. Olympic Trials, securing his spot on the world’s biggest stage. Although he didn’t make it to the podium in Paris, the experience was nothing short of extraordinary for him—a testament to years of hard work and sacrifice.

Retherford has been a pillar of American wrestling, celebrated not only as a World Champion but also as a three-time NCAA Champion and two-time Hodge Trophy winner. Wrestling fans know him for his relentless drive and passion, qualities that have made him a hero both on and off the mat. After considering a shift to a career in finance, Retherford found himself pulled back into the sport he loves. With an offer to step into a coaching role, his journey in wrestling is far from over.

From dreams realized to new beginnings, Retherford’s story is one of unyielding passion and dedication—a story that continues to inspire the wrestling community and beyond. As he transitions from athlete to mentor, there’s no doubt that his influence on the sport will only grow stronger.

Zain Retherford appointed as a coach at NLWC

Retherford initially wanted to shift to the tri-state area. The Olympian wrestler wanted to pursue a career in finance. However, in a recent announcement, Zain Retherford will be joining the Nittany Lions Wrestling Club. With his inclusion, the club is expected to be bolstered as it already boasts of an able coaching team in Mark McKnight, Jake Varner, Casey Cunningham, and Cody Sanderson. 

The news of Retherford being inducted as a Nittany Lions’ coach was confirmed by an X account named Justin Basch. The post read, “Love the news of @zaintrainusa deciding to stick around State College to coach @NittanyLionWC; he has so much value to add to so many!  His initial plans saw him moving to the tri-state area as he pursued a finance career.” Following the announcement, Retherford too, posted an Instagram story sharing the news and expressing his elation as he wrote, “Grateful to be staying in Happy Valley.” This change of roles for Retherford is speculated to be heavily influenced by his forgetful outing in Paris. 

After witnessing Retherford’s heroics in the Olympic trials, the hopes were very high for his medal possibilities. Unfortunately, Retherford was deemed unfit to continue in the Olympics following his head injury. It was the same head injury that made Retherford doubtful about his professional wrestling despite being expected to continue for some more time. Meanwhile, as Zain Retherford takes up the mantle to lead the way for future Nittany Lions stars, he has come a long way from his humble beginnings. 

Retherford’s humble beginnings 

Zain Retherford took up wrestling because he did not want to work in pumpkin fields. Coming from a middle-class family, the Nittany Lions’ wrestler grew up on a pumpkin farm. Reflecting on his childhood days, he stated that his family’s pumpkin farm in Pennsylvania taught him a great deal about discipline. Speaking exclusively to Olympics.com, the Olympian said, “Growing up on a pumpkin farm taught me hard work, and it taught me not to take wrestling for granted because there is harder work out there.”

Unfortunately, Retherford’s hard time continued when he signed up for high school at Line Mountain High School. Despite making significant progress in his wrestling, he was subjected to a great deal of bullying. Throughout the entirety of his stay at Line Mountain High School, the wrestler was traumatized until his father decided to shift him to a different school. Thus, with scars rooted deep inside him, Zain Retherford fought through the pain to become a champion. And now, starting a fresh new career shortly, Retherford will surely look to take his beloved NLWC a long way toward greatness.