(Walnut, CA) Mt. SAC named David Rivera to a full-time Professor of Kinesiology and Head Wrestling Coach position. In his first 5 seasons leading the Mountie Wrestling Program and serving as an adjunct professor, Rivera guided the team to two California Community College Athletics Association (CCCAA) Dual-Team Wrestling State Championships, four top 3 finishes at the CCCAA State Wrestling Championships and nine individual state championship titles.
In 2012, he was named CCCAA State Coach of the Year and in 2013, he added to his list of growing accolades by earning Southern California Regional and Southwest Conference Coach of the Year.
"We are extemely excited that our wrestling program will continue to thrive under the direction of Coach Rivera," replied Dean/Athletics Director, Joe Jennum. "He is a proven coach and professor. We are proud to have him join us on a full-time basis."
David Rivera Head Coaching Accolades
| YEAR | CHAMPIONSHIP | STATE FINISH |
| 2015 | CCCAA Dual-Team State Championship | 5th |
| 2014 | 3rd | |
| 2013 | CCCAA Dual Team State Championship | 3rd |
| 2012 | 2nd | |
| 2011 | 3rd |
Rivera began his coaching career in 2005, concurrently at Cerritos College (2005) and at Rosemead High School (2005-2009), where he served as an assistant coach with both programs. He is also a part of the Titan Mercury Wrestling Club, one the top wrestling clubs in Southern California.
Rivera was a standout wrestler out of El Monte High School (El Monte, CA). During his junior season, he captured the 1999 CIF Southern Section Division 1 Wrestling Championship and earned a trip to the CIF State Championships. As a senior, he was the CIF Division 1 Runner-Up, Masters Meet Runner-Up and placed 5th at the CIF State Championships. He continued his education and career at Embry Riddle Aeronautical University (Prescott, AZ) where he was a 4-year letterman, 4-time NAIA National Qualifier, 2-time NAIA National Finalist, Team Captain (2001-2005) and a 2-time NAIA All-American.
Rivera received his bachelors degree from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University and his masters degree in Physical Education from Azusa Pacific University. He and his wife, Elizabeth, reside in Covina, California. In his spare time he enjoys wrestling and practicing Jiu Jitsu.
For more information, please contact the Mt. SAC Sports Information Office at (909) 274-4630.