Eric Mateo joined Benedictine as the Head Wrestling Coach in 2026, bringing a proven track record of student-athlete development and collegiate competitive excellence to the program.
Prior to taking the helm, Mateo built a strong coaching foundation at Avila University, serving first as a Graduate Assistant before being elevated to Head Coach. During his head coaching tenure, he compiled a 33-28 dual record while successfully mentoring eight NAIA National Qualifiers and one All-American.
Mateo’s coaching philosophy mirrors that of Benedictine College, as the Benedictine Wrestling coaching staff strives to develop the whole man through four core pillars: belief, pursuit of excellence, a 'one more' mentality, and an expectation to win. These principles guide the development of student-athletes as competitors, students, leaders, and men of character.
As a competitor, Mateo was a standout four-year starter at the NCAA Division II level for the University of Central Missouri. During his distinguished career with the Mules, he was a two-time All-Conference selection and a National Qualifier. Mateo earned his Bachelor of Science in Safety Management from the University of Central Missouri.
Born in Sacramento, California, and raised in Waynesville, Missouri, Mateo now resides in Gardner, Kansas, with his fiancée, Alyssa. They are the proud parents of three children: Vivienne (6), Sienna (4), and Teddi Jo (1).
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