Meet the new varsity head coaches
With winter sports shifting into high gear, we welcome two new varsity head coaches to Wesleyan athletics this season. Jeremy Oliver is our varsity boys basketball head coach, and Josh Tolman ’10 is our varsity wrestling head coach.
“We are so excited to add Jeremy Oliver to our coaching staff as our head boys basketball coach and to welcome Josh Tolman back to campus to lead our wrestling program. Both men are extremely passionate about coaching and leading their programs, and most importantly, helping our student-athletes grow in faith and character,” says Lacy Gilbert, director of athletics.
Both Oliver and Tolman recently shared about their transition to Wesleyan and goals for their programs.
Jeremy Oliver- varsity boys basketball head coach
Why is coaching at Wesleyan the right fit for you?
I went to an independent school in Atlanta, and I have worked in independent and Christian schools for the better part of 16 years. I have always known that Wesleyan has a high reputation among independent schools in the city and the region. As a basketball coach, it would be impossible to pass up the opportunity to lead a program in such an awesome community.
What are your goals for your team this season?
Our goal is to win each day. We want to win each rep, win each drill, and win each practice, so that eventually we have built enough positive momentum and habits to be a really good team. We are all about winning the step that is in front of us before worrying about a step 50 feet down the line.
How have your first few practices been?
The guys have done a pretty good job learning a new system and vocabulary. We’ve tried to keep practices up-tempo and upbeat to reflect how we want to play, and the players have responded pretty well so far.
What has surprised you in your first months at Wesleyan?
How nice everyone is! People really live the mission at this school.
Josh Tolman ’10- varsity wrestling head coach
Why is coaching at Wesleyan the right fit for you?
I really enjoy the environment at Wesleyan and how it allows me to cultivate relationships with my wrestlers.
What are your goals for your team this season?
My goal for the team is that we would grow together as a team through team culture and hard work.
How have your first few practices been?
Our first few practices have been great! I've enjoyed seeing the guys put in hard work and stay accountable to each other as we begin the season.
What has surprised you in your first months back at Wesleyan?
I have been excited to see that the teachers at Wesleyan are who they say they are. They all care immensely about the students and want them to flourish as people. I've loved working and coaching in this type of environment.
Welcome, Jeremy Oliver, and welcome back, Josh Tolman ’10!
Please check the athletics schedule to find out when you can watch our new coaches in action.
