Stan Banks on Mentorship & Wrestling Mindset

Stan Banks on Wrestling, Confidence, and Community Impact

In this episode of Local Music Somewhere, Jennifer Busco sat down with Stan Banks, a wrestling champion turned community leader, to explore the transformative power of wrestling and grappling sports. From building confidence in youth to fostering personal growth in adults, Stan shared the philosophy behind Core Combat Academies and the stories that define his work.

From Wrestling Champion to Community Leader

Stan Banks, a decorated wrestler and former high school and college All-American, founded Core Wrestling—now Core Combat Academies—14 years ago in Charlotte. His journey began with his twin boys, hoping to give them the same life-changing experience he found in wrestling.

Stan shared:

“Every dog will have his day. So one day, wrestling is life. And our tagline is grappling is life because life is life is like that.”

What started as a competitive wrestling program evolved into a community-driven initiative. Stan emphasizes inclusivity, bringing together kids from at-risk and privileged communities, teaching them teamwork, resilience, and mutual respect through grappling sports, strength training, and striking disciplines like boxing and Muay Thai.

Building Confidence Through Wrestling

A core focus of Core Combat Academies is instilling confidence in both youth and adults. Wrestling, jiu-jitsu, and physical training provide a structured environment for self-discovery and personal growth.

Stan explained:

“I just want my kid to be confident. They don’t care about winning titles… they want to carry themselves well, they get jumped on in school, haven’t forbid, they can defend themselves. This is really like self-defense.”

The Academy implements a three-fold philosophy of Confidence, Commitment, and Community, alongside technical, mental, and physical skill development. Students learn how to overcome embarrassment, persist through challenges, and improve through disciplined repetition—lessons that translate off the mat as well.

Techniques, Mental Toughness, and Life Lessons

Stan discussed how mental preparation is as crucial as physical training. Techniques like box breathing, visualization, and journaling are integrated to help wrestlers control their emotions and stay present during matches. He emphasizes growth through adversity rather than just winning.

Adults and kids alike benefit from this approach. One adult participant, Chuck, described the program as his “sanctuary,” gaining confidence and camaraderie while developing physically through strength and martial arts training. Meanwhile, youth like Cole Kennerly transformed from an out-of-shape middle schooler to a middle school state champion, gaining both skill and self-esteem.

Mentorship, Leadership, and the Coaching Philosophy

Stan views his role not just as a coach but as a mentor. He trains younger coaches to recognize the responsibility they have, especially during the critical developmental stages of adolescence. Praise, consistency, and teaching values through practice are key components of Core’s culture.

Jennifer and Stan explored how modern coaching requires understanding each child’s home life, social pressures, and emotional challenges. By making every student feel seen and heard, Core Combat Academies fosters holistic growth beyond athletic achievement.

Wrestling, Nutrition, and Health in Modern Training

Stan also addressed evolving practices in wrestling related to nutrition, body image, and weight management. Unlike the extreme weight-cutting practices of the past, Core emphasizes healthy nutrition, hydration, and realistic weight classes, educating both parents and athletes to ensure safe, long-term development.

Key Takeaways from the Episode

• Wrestling and grappling sports teach confidence, discipline, and resilience.
  
• Core Combat Academies combines youth and adult training with a focus on inclusivity and community impact.
  
• Success stories include youth transforming physically and socially, like Cole Kennerly, and adults gaining confidence and camaraderie, like Chuck.
  
• Mental preparation—through visualization, journaling, and breathing techniques—is crucial for performance and personal growth.
  
• Coaches are trained to model values, encourage commitment, and recognize each student’s unique challenges.
  
• Strength training, technical repetition, and life lessons are integrated into every session.
  
• Nutrition, hydration, and realistic weight management are emphasized to promote health and performance.
  
• The Academy’s philosophy is anchored in Confidence, Commitment, and Community, guiding both athletic and life development.