EAST STROUDSBURG - Joey Rivera has been named the interim head wrestling coach at East Stroudsburg University, Director of Athletics Dr. Tom Gioglio has announced. Rivera was an assistant coach last season under Jason Kutz.

"We are excited that Joey has accepted the head coaching position on an interim basis," Gioglio said. "He brings great credentials to the wrestling room and has an outstanding knowledge of the sport. His knowledge of the ESU program will allow us to keep continuity in the program, and he will have the opportunity to build on the positive foundation that has been established. Joey has also demonstrated his ability as a recruiter, helping Coach Kutz bring in a decorated recruiting class this fall."

"I am extremely excited about the opportunity that I have been blessed with both for myself and the athletes," Rivera said. "I have always envisioned becoming a head coach, and to be able to do so at the university that I grew up around is an ideal situation for me. I also believe that having a familiar face to work with will provide stability for the student-athletes during this time of transition."

Rivera was an NCAA qualifier at Boston University following a standout career at Stroudsburg High School. He was the team's outstanding freshman and outstanding wrestler while at Boston, and was team captain as a senior. He qualified for the NCAA Tournament in 2004 and finished his career with a record of 86-30.

Rivera earned his degree in Psychology from Boston in 2005 and was a recipient of the Colonial Athletic Association Commissioner's Academic Award.

At Stroudsburg High School, Rivera was a four-time state qualifier and set the school record with 137 career wins. He finished fifth in the state as a freshman and sophomore, eighth as a junior and fourth as a senior. He was also a two-time regional champion.

As a freestyle wrestler, Rivera placed eighth in the 60kg weight class at the U.S. National Freestyle Tournament last spring. It was the first freestyle tournament in which he had competed.

Rivera resides in Stroudsburg and will marry his fiancee, Leah Middleton, in October.