June 20, 2014
COLUMBIA, Mo. - After spending the past two seasons as Mizzou wrestling's director of operations, Todd Schavrien has been named the program's new volunteer assistant coach, as announced today by head coach Brian Smith.
"We are excited to have Todd remain on our coaching staff, and continue to have him serve as an outstanding representative of `Tiger Style' wrestling," said coach Smith. "Todd has been a part of this program both as a student-athlete and staff member for five years now. He demonstrates excellent dedication and passion every day, and plays a crucial role into the success our program has had over the years. I know our current roster of student-athletes cannot wait to have him back at the Hearnes!"
A former Tigers' wrestling All-American and 2011 Missouri graduate, Schavrien spent the past two seasons inside the program as the director of wrestling operations. This marks Schavrien's second wrestling assistant coach stint in his career, after spending the 2011-12 season on the Drexel University wrestling staff.
The three-time NCAA qualifier capped off his wrestling career with the Tigers by winning the Big 12 Championship and placing sixth in the country with All-America honors at 141 pounds in 2011. Schavrien finished his career with an 86-44 record in three years with Mizzou after spending his first two seasons at Arizona State University. He served as Mizzou's team captain during the 2010-11 campaign and won the team's Hap Whitney Coach's Award at the end of that season. The award is given to the wrestler that displays dedication, commitment, sacrifice and selflessness to the team on a consistent basis.
"It is such a blessing to be able to continue being a part of a program that I am so passionate about," said Schavrien. "Coach Smith and the remaining coaching staff I had when I was an athlete had a tremendous influence on me on-and-off the mat, and shaped me into the man I am today. I am excited to be on the other side of the spectrum and help these student-athletes not only accomplish their athletics goals but also help them grow and become men."
"The opportunity for me to learn from and work alongside coach Smith, coach Clemsen and coach Johnston will allow me to continue to improve as a coach as well. I cannot wait to get started and help this program make history!"
Schavrien is a native of San Diego, Calif., and is the son of Lee and Theresa. He has two brothers, Brian Pontalillo and Nick. Schavrien graduated from the University of Missouri with a degree in interdisciplinary studies back in 2011 and currently resides in Columbia, Mo.
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