Joe Corso
Joseph Marion "Joe" Corso is an American wrestler and coach. He competed in the men's freestyle 57 kg at the 1976 Summer Olympics, and was USA Women's Wrestling's first coach.
Early life
Born in Turin, Italy, December 22, 1951, Joe was raised by the Nuns of Turin Catholic Charities before being adopted at the age of 5 by Joe and Hazel Corso, owners of an Italian restaurant in West Des Moines, Iowa. At the time of his arrival in the United States he spoke only Italian.Wrestling career
Being of small physical stature, his athletic opportunities were limited, however under the tutelage of Coach Larry Bock he placed 2nd in the Iowa High School State Wrestling Tournament in 1970 and became the #112 State Champion for Valley West Des Moines’ in 1971, its first State Champion since 1936.What followed was a steady climb which saw Joe excel at the Collegiate, National and International level. During his active years, Joe won 6 National Freestyle Wrestling Championships and numerous international titles while also pursuing a career in coaching. He also was a member of the 1976 Freestyle Olympic Wrestling Team.
Olympic accomplishments
Joe Corso represented the United States in men's freestyle wrestling at the 1976 Summer Olympic Games in Montreal, Canada, competing in the 57 kg weight category.In the lead-up to the 1980 Olympic Games in Moscow, Joe was designated as the 57 kg reserve for the United States wrestling team. Unfortunately, an injury prevented him from participating in the Games, which were subsequently boycotted by the United States.
Joe's wrestling journey continued as he held the position of 2nd alternate at 57 kg for the 1984 Olympic team representing the United States in Los Angeles.
Coaching career
He played a role in fostering the growth of women's wrestling.Past Coaching Positions
1978–1980 - Assistant wrestling coach at the University of Minnesota1981–1984 - Assistant wrestling coach at Indiana University1984–2005 - Freestyle coach at Sunkist Kids Wrestling Club1991–1993 - Wrestling coach at Brophy College Preparatory High School2005–2012 - Coach at Gator Women's Wrestling Club2005–2007 - Head coach at Brother Martin High School in New Orleans, Louisiana2012–present - Women's & Men's Freestyle coach at Sunkist Kids Wrestling Club- Wrestled/Coached as either head or assistant of seven senior women's world teams