ARCATA, Calif. — Cal Poly Humboldt Athletics announced today that wrestling legends and current coaches Lennie Zalesky and Jim Zalesky will retire at the conclusion of the 2025–26 season, marking the end of a transformative two-year chapter for the program they were hired to resurrect.
The Zalesky brothers were brought to Cal Poly Humboldt two years ago to lead the return of wrestling following a 33 year hiatus, tasked with rebuilding the program from the ground up. Under the leadership of Head Coach Lennie Zalesky and Assistant Coach Jim Zalesky, the Lumberjacks not only re-established wrestling within the department but quickly developed into a competitively trending program within Cal Poly Humboldt Athletics.
In a short time, the Zaleskys laid a strong foundation rooted in discipline, culture, and student-athlete development—both on and off the mat—positioning the program for long-term success. Their impact was felt immediately, as Cal Poly Humboldt Wrestling produced two MPSF conference champions, seven MPSF All-Conference recipients, one NCAA Division II All-West Region honoree, and two NWCA Scholar All-Americans in their first season back on the mat.
The Zaleskys will coach the upcoming championship season with the Lumberjacks beginning February 1 at the MPSF Conference Championships, followed by the NCAA Super Regionals in Colorado on February 28, and the NCAA National Championships in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, on March 13–14.
"Of my 23 years coaching here in California, this challenge was certainly unique and rewarding in many ways," said Lennie Zalesky. "I can say that the guys I have worked with here these last two years are some of the finest young men I have had a chance to coach. I will hold these two years and these young men close to my heart."
Jim Zalesky echoed those sentiments, reflecting on both the program's rebirth and the opportunity to coach alongside his brother.
"I enjoyed being a part of Cal Poly Humboldt's resurrection of its wrestling program and being able to coach alongside my brother," said Jim Zalesky. "I look forward to watching the program's progression in the coming years."
Executive Director of Athletics Dr. Nick Pettit praised the Zaleskys' impact and legacy, emphasizing their commitment to excellence and the lasting influence they leave behind.
"Lennie and Jim answered the call to rebuild Cal Poly Humboldt Wrestling and did so with integrity, passion, and an unwavering commitment to competitive success," said Pettit. "They were 100% dedicated to this program over the last two seasons and helped establish wrestling as a respected and rising sport within our department, the MPSF, and NCAA Division II. Their careers—as legendary athletes and as coaches—have impacted countless student-athletes, and we are deeply grateful for everything they have given to the sport. We wish them nothing but the best in a well-earned retirement."
Cal Poly Humboldt Athletics will begin a national search for its next head wrestling coach immediately to continue the momentum built by the Zalesky brothers. Wrestling remains an important part of the Humboldt community, and the department looks forward to what lies ahead as the program continues to grow and build on the strong foundation established over the past two seasons.
Those interested in applying can find more information and submit an application at:
https://careers.humboldt.edu/en-us/job/546188/head-coach-temporary-coach-pool-ay-2526
For more information on Cal Poly Humboldt men's wrestling, visit humboldtathletics.com, download our mobile app on Apple iOS or Google Android, and follow the Lumberjacks on Instagram, Twitter/X, and Facebook.
Instagram: @humboldt.athletics / @humboldt.wrestling
Twitter/X: @HumboldtJacks
Facebook: Cal Poly Humboldt Lumberjacks
