Photo Courtesy of Cole Haines

Cole Haines (left) and Kurt Haines (right) at a wrestling match

Dhilan Chopra ‘28

REPORTER

Senior Cole Haines and his father Kurt Haines reached a tremendous milestone on February 22, etching their names into Chester County wrestling history. The father-son duo broke the record for the most combined wins as a pair in Chester County, a feat that speaks to not only their dominance on the mat but also the strength of their bond off of it.

Cole, a senior, just wrapped up his final run for the state title and loved every minute of it. In his four-year career, Cole achieved 113 wins, an outstanding accomplishment that he and his dad are surely proud of. Kurt, his father, is coach for the the High School team. Yet, before Kurt’s successful coaching career began, he was a phenomenal competitor, wrestling for Downingtown West. In just three years, he racked up over 100 wins, leading to a high school career record of 105 - 10 - 2. In his senior year, he even finished third in the state tournament, a tremendous achievement. He then continued his remarkable wrestling career at Bloomsburg University in college.

Kurt put his experience to good use after his career. “Even before Unionville, my dad has always coached me to be better on and off the mat,” said Cole. Through every win, loss, and injury, Kurt was always in his corner, offering both technical advice and emotional support. “He’s helped me so much from a mental side,” Cole shared. Furthermore, Cole has faced his share of challenges over the years, including concussions and other injuries. However Kurt’s steady presence made a difference. “My dad was there, encouraging me and helping me push through,” Cole revealed.

That support has left a lasting impression on Cole, who hopes to follow in his father’s footsteps as a coach one day. “I want to help pass along the many fun aspects of wrestling,” he said. The bond between Cole and Kurt extends beyond wrestling. It’s about trust, resilience, and a shared love for the sport — a connection that has shaped Cole’s career and will likely influence the next generation of wrestlers.

Kurt and Cole Haines’ accomplishment is more than an achievement; it is a symbol of the mentorship and relationship between the two historic wrestlers. Be on the lookout for Cole as he ventures throughout his college career, where he will continue to wrestle at Arcadia University in the fall.