ABOUT
A wrestler renowned for his unyielding determination, Mike Cardiero earned the title of "wrestler with the most heart" throughout his wrestling journey. His wrestling pursuit commenced at the age of 13 within Girard High School's junior high program, under the guidance of Coach Mark Toomey. Despite encountering challenges, including instances where he struggled to make weight, Mike's tenacity prevailed. He even resorted to unconventional methods like weighing in using a "garbage can" to meet the requirements of the #89 wrestling class. Possessing a fierce competitive spirit and a strong aversion to losing, Mike's wrestling record tallied an impressive 74 wins against 13 losses during his time as a Varsity Wrestler. His achievements earned him four letters in wrestling during his high school tenure. He demonstrated consistent excellence by qualifying for District Finals three times in four years. Following high school, Mike was awarded a wrestling scholarship to Youngstown State University. Although he participated in YSU's wrestling program for a year, the university ultimately discontinued the program. Serving in the United States Marine Corps for three years, Mike not only represented his country but also engaged in wrestling bouts against the German National Team and the South Korean Olympic team. His exceptional physical prowess was recognized with the Leatherneck Award for Physical Excellence. Mike's dedication extended to coaching wrestling at GHS since 1984, currently leading the junior high program. In his professional capacity, he holds the role of chief foreman in the Frame Building Department at Warren Paint and Glass. In a remarkable generational continuation of achievement, his son, Nick, secured a fifth-place finish at the Ohio State Wrestling Championship in the present year.
accomplishments
- Determination and Heart: Mike Cardiero is celebrated for his unwavering determination and a tenacious spirit that earned him the reputation of being a wrestler with an exceptional amount of heart. This trait was evident from the start of his wrestling journey at Girard High School's junior high program.
- Early Start: He began his wrestling career at the age of 13 within Girard High School's junior high wrestling program, where he was coached by Mark Toomey.
- Overcoming Challenges: Despite facing challenges such as weight management issues, Mike's persistence and dedication allowed him to overcome obstacles that could have hindered his progress.
- High School Success: During his time as a Varsity Wrestler at Girard High School, Mike compiled an impressive record of 74 wins against 13 losses. This accomplishment earned him four varsity letters in wrestling.
- Consistent Excellence: His consistent performance on the mat led to his qualification for District Finals three times out of his four years as a Varsity Wrestler.
- College Wrestling: He was awarded a wrestling scholarship to Youngstown State University, where he participated in the wrestling program for a year. Unfortunately, the university discontinued the wrestling program thereafter.
- Marine Corps and International Wrestling: Mike served in the United States Marine Corps for three years. During his service, he represented his country in wrestling, even competing against international opponents such as the German National Team and the South Korean Olympic team. His exceptional physical abilities earned him the Leatherneck Award for Physical Excellence.
- Coaching and Professional Roles: Mike's dedication to wrestling extended to coaching, and he has been coaching wrestling at Girard High School since 1984. He currently leads the junior high wrestling program. In his professional career, he holds the position of chief foreman in the Frame Building Department at Warren Paint and Glass.
- Generational Success: His commitment to the sport of wrestling continued to the next generation, as his son Nick achieved a notable fifth-place finish at the Ohio State Wrestling Championship.
Return to Hall of fame
