VARSITY HEAD COACH: TOM BOOTH
Coach Tom enters his second year as head coach, and seventh year overall at Northgate High School. He joined the staff in 2017 as an assistant, focusing primarily with the varsity upperweights, and transitioned to the head coach role in 2022. In all, Coach Tom has 15 years of coaching experience and is a Certified Bronze Coach with USA Wrestling.
Utilizing the guiding principles of the team values—Coachable, Honorable, Accountable, Mentorship, Pride, Scholarship (C.H.A.M.P.S.)—Coach Tom's objective is to mold not only skilled wrestlers but also individuals of integrity, fully prepared to thrive both on the wrestling mat and in all aspects of life.
During his high school career, Coach Tom was three-year varsity starter in both football and wrestling at Middletown North High School in New Jersey, where he concluded his career as a Region Placer.
Coach Tom serves as a nurse at a hospital in Walnut Creek, where he works on the respiratory and ventilator unit.
JV HEAD COACH: JAKE LAUFER
Coach Jake has been a dedicated member of the wrestling coaching staff at Northgate High School since 2003. He has played an integral role in the establishment and development of our JV athletes, and those in the Foothill Middle School and the Walnut Creek Wrestling Club programs. Coach Jake's own wrestling background includes his time as a wrestler at Campolindo High School. Additionally, during his academic pursuits at Humboldt State and College of the Redwoods, Coach Jake was actively involved in their rugby programs.
Beyond his involvement in sports, Coach Jake serves as a Special Education Assistant within the Mount Diablo Unified School District. In this role, he offers personalized one-on-one support to students, exemplifying his commitment to fostering their growth and success.
ASSISTANT COACH: TIM SANCHEZ
Coach Tim has been a valued member of the Northgate High School wrestling coaching staff since 2013. Known for his technical expertise, he consistently strives to expand his knowledge of the sport, ensuring he remains up-to-date with the latest advancements. This dedication translates into a distinct advantage and competitive edge for our athletes, as they benefit from his guidance and innovation.
ASSISTANT COACH: GEOFF METTLER
Coach Geoff has been a part of the coaching staff since 2019. Known for his empowering coaching style, he approaches his role with inspiration and unwavering support. A dedicated student of the game, Coach Geoff consistently seeks opportunities to take his knowledge to the next level, showcasing his commitment to continuous improvement.
ASSISTANT COACH: RYAN DOYLE
Coach Ryan joined the Northgate Wrestling staff in 2021 after relocating to the Bay Area from the east coast. Prior to coaching for the Broncos, Coach Ryan was active in the Beat the Streets organizations in both New York City and in the Bay Area. He also had a very successful wrestling career where he placed third in the state tournament for his home state of North Carolina before going off to wrestle Division 1 for Columbia University in New York City. Coach Ryan has used his experience to help prepare our athletes with techniques and methods that work at the highest levels of competition, namely his leg ride series.
ASSISTANT COACH: VINSON HEINE
Coach Vinson started with the Broncos in 2021 and became a valuable member of the staff right away. He brings a unique perspective, having wrestled both at the collegiate and high school levels in the state of Washington. His coaching style is consistently motivating, serving as a reminder to our wrestlers to embrace techniques that align with their individual styles and body types.
ASSISTANT COACH: FRANCISCO ESPINOZA
Coach Francisco is an alum of Northgate (Class of 2020) and has been a valuable member of the coaching staff since his graduation from high school. He works hard in the practice room, acting as a sparring partner for many of our middle and upperweights. Currently, Coach Francisco wrestles at the Junior College level with Chabot College in Hayward, CA.
