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Johnny Grimaldo's story is one of dedication, hard work, and a deep commitment to both athletics and community. Born and raised in Colorado Springs, Johnny’s passion for sports began early, excelling in both wrestling and football throughout his school years. His most notable achievement as a young athlete came in middle school when he became the first-ever individual to win the district wrestling tournament three consecutive years, an impressive feat that would earn him recognition far beyond his own career.This accomplishment led to the creation of the Johnny Grimaldo Award by School District 11, honoring athletes who achieve the same level of success in the district’s wrestling tournament. This award serves as a lasting testament to Johnny’s impact on the local sports community, encouraging a legacy of excellence among young athletes. In high school, Johnny achieved an even greater level of recognition, becoming the #1 ranked wrestler in the state of Colorado his senior year. His talent, determination, and discipline on the mat made him a force to be reckoned with, and he quickly earned the respect of his peers and coaches alike. But Johnny's most profound legacy lies in his role as a coach. After completing his own athletic career, he dedicated the next 30 years to coaching and mentoring young athletes across the Pikes Peak region. Johnny coached various sports, including wrestling, football, track, and softball, but his ability to instill values made him stand out as an exceptional coach. He didn’t just focus on wins and losses; he focused on building character, teaching resilience, and instilling positive values in every athlete he worked with. His coaching went far beyond the physical aspects of the sport; it was about shaping the lives of young people and helping them grow into strong, responsible adults. Johnny's contributions as a coach impacted countless athletes, many of whom went on to achieve their own successes in sports and life, carrying with them the lessons Johnny taught them about hard work, integrity, and perseverance. Through his work, Johnny Grimaldo not only changed the lives of athletes but also made an enduring mark on the Pikes Peak community, showing what true leadership and mentorship can accomplish. His legacy as both an athlete and a coach will continue to inspire generations to come.

Coach G was easily the best wrestling coach and the best person that the middle school has ever hired. I will miss him deeply, and he may be replaced as a wrestling coach, but he will never be replaced in our hearts as one of the best coaches and best human beings I have ever met.  Noah

Coach, I would give anything to have you back. The things that you've taught me make me the young man I am. I can only imagine the things you had left to teach me.  A true role model to me, my teammates, even my Dad. I want to honor you everyday by living the way that I know you would. We aren't perfect, we all make mistakes, but it's not how we start it's how we finish, and I will find a way to staff off my back when the buzzer goes off. JP

The best memories throughout middle school were shared with you. Not only in wrestling did you inspire us and build us to be the great young men that you wanted us to be, but in life, you taught us how to be gentlemen.  Coach, you were and always will be one of our greatest mentors and friends as we go through life. You taught us how to treat each other and have each other's backs. On the mat you taught us to wrestle every match like it will be our last and we keep that in our hearts until the every end. With the season arount the corner we will be thinking about you before and after every win and every loss. I am thankful for what you have done for us, coach, and we will all miss you dearly. Cody

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