Sean Kirtz started wrestling at the age of 10. It was the only activity that allowed him to spend time with his father, who otherwise wasn’t very involved in his life. Growing up in a large family and full of energy, wrestling became the perfect outlet for Sean. Raised in Youngstown, Ohio, a city on the border of Pennsylvania—an area renowned for producing some of the best wrestlers in the country—Sean was surrounded by incredible talent. This environment forced him to improve quickly, even though he wasn’t naturally large or coordinated. Wrestling became the one sport where he truly excelled.
By middle school, Sean was among the top wrestlers in the nation. However, his life took a difficult turn when his parents separated. Leaving him without the guidance he needed during those crucial years. In seventh grade, he moved in with a friend and began drinking alcohol and smoking cigarettes. These habits derailed him, and Sean never fully recovered the trajectory he had started on.
Many of the wrestlers he defeated in middle school went on to become multiple-time state champions, while he fell short of achieving the success he was capable of.
Forest Hill High School's wrestling team, led by first-year coach Sean Kirtz, achieved a remarkable turnaround by winning the District 15-2A Championship after finishing last the previous year. Despite limited resources, including a cramped wrestling room, Kirtz inspired the team through passion, dedication, and a strong sense of unity. With four individual champions and 11 wrestlers advancing to regionals, the team’s success reflects the hard work of both the athletes and coaches. Their achievements have also led to plans for improved facilities, symbolizing the program’s growth and the community’s support.
Looking back, Sean sees those struggles as a blessing in disguise. They taught him the importance of structure and support, especially during formative years. Now, as a single parent, Sean dedicates his time to homeschooling and training his child, providing the guidance and mentorship he lacked. Wrestling remains a cornerstone of his life—not just as a sport but as a way to connect with his son and create the stability he wished he had during his own youth.
Wrestling also instilled in Sean the importance of being present, a lesson that resonates in his yoga practice. Like in wrestling, being fully present is essential in a very hot vinyasa yoga class. Sean describes each class as feeling like dying and being born again, a process that challenges him physically, mentally, and emotionally. Both disciplines demand resilience, focus, and the ability to endure discomfort to emerge stronger. These lessons of renewal and perseverance now guide Sean as a father and mentor, shaping the values he instills in his child every day.
Company Name: Kirtz Investments
Contact Person: Sean Kirtz
Contact Email: Coachk56165@gmail.com
City: Boca Raton
State: Florida
