The Tallassee High School wrestling coaching staff has been honored by the National Wrestling Coaches Association (NWCA) as the top staff in the state.

Staffs were nominated by peers in their respective states for outstanding work over the past season.

Tallassee head coach John Mask was named Alabama’s top head coach. His staff received the state honor for top assistant boys’ staff.

“These awards are about more than just wins and losses,” said NWCA Executive Director Mike Moyer. “They recognize the coaches who go the extra mile for their teams, their schools, and the sport. We’re proud to shine a light on their efforts.”

In addition to Mask, the boys’ staff consists of Dustin Cook, Chad Adams, Phillip Nelson, Mark Griggs, Nic Taunton and Josh Epperson.

“(I’m) so proud of this group of coaches who go above and beyond,” said Mask. “It is great for them to be recognized by the National Wrestling Coaches Association.”

The Tallassee wrestling team finished 43-0 for the 2024-25 season winning both state championships in the duals and traditional formats. It was the second time around for Mask, who was at the helm in 2014 when the Tigers’ won the program’s first state championship. Tallassee is 141-3 over the past four seasons with 123 straight regular season duals wins dating back to the 2020-21 season.