About Us

Learn more about Port City Pirates Wrestling, our mission, and our dedication to developing champions on and off the mat.

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Our Team

Meet the dedicated coaches and staff shaping the next generation of athletes through expert training, mentorship, and passion for the sport.

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Our Facilities

Train at Brunson’s MMA & Fitness—an elite training environment led by top-tier athletes, including former UFC top-5 ranked Derek Brunson.

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About Us

Port City Pirates Wrestling is dedicated to developing young athletes through the sport of wrestling. Our program instills discipline, confidence, and perseverance while teaching fundamental and advanced wrestling techniques.

Founded with the goal of providing high-quality wrestling instruction to youth and high school athletes, Port City Pirates Wrestling offers training programs tailored to different experience levels. Whether you're just stepping onto the mat for the first time or competing at an elite level, our coaches and training partners are here to push you to your best. Our program is designed not just to build great wrestlers, but to develop strong, hardworking individuals who carry these values into all aspects of life.

Wrestling
Coach & Wrestler
Training Sessions
Youth Development
State Championships

Our Mission

To empower young athletes through the sport of wrestling, fostering resilience, discipline, and a champion's mindset.

Our Vision

To create a premier wrestling program in Wilmington, NC, that develops elite competitors while building character and leadership in every athlete.

Our Core Values

  • Discipline: We believe in the power of consistent effort, structure, and accountability in training and life.
  • Excellence: Our goal is to develop top-tier athletes who strive for greatness in everything they do.
  • Resilience: Wrestling teaches athletes to overcome adversity, whether in practice, competition, or daily life.
  • Sportsmanship: We instill respect for teammates, opponents, and coaches both on and off the mat.

Our History

Port City Pirates Wrestling was established to provide a competitive and developmental platform for wrestlers in the Wilmington, NC area. The program has grown into a respected organization, producing skilled athletes who compete at local, state, and national levels.

2010

The idea for Port City Pirates Wrestling was conceived by dedicated local coaches and former wrestlers.

2012

Port City Pirates officially launched, offering youth and high school wrestling programs.

2015

The program expanded, welcoming more athletes and competing at state championships.

2018

Multiple Pirates wrestlers placed in national tournaments, solidifying the program's reputation.

2022

Port City Pirates established a partnership with Brunson MMA & Fitness, gaining access to high-quality training facilities.

2024

The program continues to grow, offering year-round training and mentorship for the next generation of wrestlers.

Meet Our Team

Our dedicated professionals who make all of this possible.

Dan Willis
Dan Willis

University of Mount Olive Head Men & Women’s Coach

NCAA II All-American and current Head Coach at the University of Mount Olive. Coach Dan brings elite-level experience, technical excellence, and a proven record of developing top-tier talent across all age groups.

Mark Smith
Mark Smith

Head Elementary Coach

2022-23 NCWAY Elementary Coach of the Year. Coach Mark Smith leads the foundation of our youth program with passion, energy, and a deep commitment to developing our youngest athletes.

Trent Allen
Trent Allen

University of Mount Olive Assistant Men’s Coach

3x High-School All-American and standout collegiate athlete, Coach Trent Allen brings energy, modern technique, and a drive to help our wrestlers reach the next level.

Derek Brunson
Derek Brunson

BMMA Owner & Assistant Coach

3rd in NC State Tournament, 3-time NCAA II All-American, former UFC top-5 fighter, and current PFL competitor. Coach Derek Brunson brings world-class experience and elite-level training to every practice.

Austin Trotman
Austin Trotman

Assistant Coach

4x NCAA Qualifier, 3x SoCon Champion, NCAA All-American, and 5x USA World Team Member. Coach Austin Trotman brings world-class technique, experience, and a winning mindset to our athletes.

Primary Location: Port City Pirates Wrestling - Brunson MMA & Fitness

Find us below and explore our service area & hours

Address

3500 Oleander Dr.
Wilmington, NC 28403
USA

Gallery
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Business Hours
  • Friday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Monday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Sunday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Tuesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Saturday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Thursday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Wednesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Service Area