Geneva Gray’s elementary school teacher had to set a timer for her ambitious pupil, as she blew through her in-class worksheets so quickly. When the timer went off, her classmates were allowed to ask Gray for help. 

At home, she potty-trained her four-year-younger sister, instructing her in how to read, spell, and write. 

“Early on, I always liked to teach and coach,” Gray said. “Being a giver and a helper is something that I’ve always had.” 

Gray will get plenty of that in her groundbreaking new role at SLAM! (Sports Leadership and Management) — a tuition-free K-12 public charter school in Henderson, Nevada. Classroom learning is centered around sports application. 

“We tried to mimic what performing arts schools do, where they specialize in dancing and singing, and the performing arts,” said Dan Triana, SLAM’s high school principal. “The idea was a sports-integrated curriculum for people passionate about sports and the sports world. It doesn't have to be a sport they are physically participating in, but maybe it’s sports medicine or they’re involved in video or broadcasting.”

There’s an application process controlled by an employment management system called Academica. They take enrollment out of the school’s hands, ensuring a fair process.

Working with Gray is a winning lottery ticket. She will be the head girls’ high school wrestling coach, but Gray and her husband will oversee the entire wrestling curriculum.

“I get to be involved with the development from the moment they start school until they graduate high school,” Gray said. “I think it’s a coach’s dream to have that involvement. I don't know if any other coaches get to have that kind of involvement from early on all the way through.

“I’m so thrilled every time I go to events and there are more of my peers, more women involved. I think it’s a natural cycle. The more women you get, the more you’ll get to come back and be involved. We’re finally at that point where these women are taking that next step in their careers.”

Gray is transitioning to a teaching role, too — something she’s never done before — but she is eager to change, grow, and work hard. The Denver, Colorado, native leaves her post as USA Wrestling Utah’s Women’s director. She is one of three women with a gold coaching certification through USA Wrestling. 

It’s easy to understand why Gray was such an appealing hire for SLAM!. Her excitement and energy hang in the air with every word she speaks. Here are a few gems. 

“I want them to fall in love with the sport.”

“I want them to be mentally strong to handle tough situations.”

“I don’t want these kids to be great wrestlers. I want them to be great people.” 

“Servant leadership is one of the most important skills you can have as a human.” 

This is a golden opportunity for Gray, but it’s a unique opportunity for wrestling. The explosive growth of girls’ high school wrestling means quality coaches are at a premium. Having someone fully responsible for long-term development can open doors beyond a singular school. 

SLAM! already has a nationally recognized women's wrestling program, and the addition of sanctioned Nevada girls' high school wrestling means the timing couldn't be better. 

“Geneva is going to be a game changer,” Triana said. “Female head coaches are hard to find. Geneva is going to elevate the program with her reputation, background, and expertise. The interest and the numbers will double for girls' wrestling. We realize what a powerhouse coach she is and what she brings to the table.”

Watch a full-length interview with Gray about her new role below.