Luis Ayala is a six time state championship wrestling coach. Ayala is the Maine representative in the nation wide vote for most valuable coach sponsored by U.S. Cellular.
Along with building the Foxcroft Academy wrestling program to the power they are now, Ayala is also the boys soccer coach for the Ponies.
Even more important than all the amazing success Ayala has had in terms of his record and state titles, he was respected enough by his peers, former players, and community to be nominated for this award.
Ayala is currently in first place in the voting that ends on October 9th. To vote for Luis go here.
Ayala is taking his wrestling team to Virginia in December. They will be competing in a wrestling tournament at his old high school. His team won it two years ago. He has been fundraising all summer for this trip. Some of the wrestlers going on this trip have not been on a plane or out of New England.
Ayala said in a Facebook post, “I would like to say THANK YOU to everyone that nominated me for this award and those that have taken the time from their busy schedule to Vote for me for the US Cellular Most Valuable Coach Award. This has truly been such a humbling experience with all the Facebook posts from parents, former players, present players, friends, and family members. I feel the love! THANK YOU!! When I first heard about this award I did not know what to think, but once I read more into it and the opportunity that this could mean for our community it gave me a better vision. This is a great opportunity to give back to a Great community, a community that I love. Let’s Do It!!”
Each of the Final 15 coaches will win $5,000 for their school. And U.S. Cellular, in partnership with Samsung, will honor the winner with a $50,000 community grant.
Luis Ayala celebrates with Brandon Weston after a win during the 2016/2017 season. Photo courtesy of Angela Ayala
