Hernando wrestling fixture steps away from coaching duties

National Wrestling Hall of Fame member and longtime Hernando coach Bill Combs has decided to retire from the full-time duties of coaching after 34 years.

A member of the Leopards staff as either an assistant or head coach for more than three decades, Combs won’t step away from the program, but the openings of head coach and assistant coach have been posted on the Hernando County School Board web site.

“I spoke with (Hernando principal) Ken (Pritz) and let him know that I wouldn’t mind helping out, but I think it’s time for me to start spending some time with my family,” Combs said.

Combs helped lead Hernando to a runnerup finish at the state championships in 2003 and coached 11 wrestlers to 13 state titles in his tenure.

Hernando state champions under Combs
Michael Hamilton               1982
Gerard Hudson                 1987
Brad Kuhl                          1992
Chuck Deason                  1993
Reppard Gordon               1995
Richard Gant                     1997
John Smith                         1999
Robert Pritz                        2000
Addison Chipoletti              2003-05
Windham Rotunda              2005
Daniel Pritz                         2010

Teams in post

• Hernando High School