Life lessons from wrestling | Michael Ayala | TEDxMenlo College

Sometimes we need to lean on the adversities we have faced in order to propel us to new heights. Wrestling has a unique way of building relationships, resilience, and mental toughness. “Once you have wrestled, everything else is easy” (Dan Gable)
Michael Ayala is the head women's wrestling coach at Menlo College, where he led the team to the NAIA national championship in 2024.

He was named National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics, Cascade Collegiate Conference, and National Wrestling Coaches Association Coach of the Year for his achievements. With a background in psychology and a master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Michael has lived in Chicago, Montana, Oregon, and Washington, and his passion for wrestling has shaped his life and career. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx