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Backyard Bullies wrestlers training on the mat

Augusta, Georgia • Serving the CSRA Since 2023

Built Different.
Train Different.

Backyard Bullies Wrestling Club. Train hard. Wrestle tough. Get better together.

Phone
706-250-0186

About Backyard Bullies

Backyard Bullies Wrestling Club welcomes athletes from all backgrounds and experience levels. Whether you're stepping on the mat for the first time or chasing a state title, we have a place for you.

  • Wrestling for the first time
  • Preparing for your school season
  • Looking to compete at a higher level
  • Training for state or national competition

Founded in 2023, Backyard Bullies has quickly become a home for wrestlers throughout the CSRA who want high-level instruction, challenging training, and a supportive team culture.

Backyard Bullies coaches and young wrestlers gathered together in the club's training room
Est. 2023

Our Mission

Since opening in 2023, Backyard Bullies Wrestling Club has focused on creating a positive, competitive environment where wrestlers develop their skills, build confidence, and become leaders both on and off the mat.

We believe wrestling changes lives through:

  • Discipline
  • Accountability
  • Hard Work
  • Respect
  • Perseverance
  • Leadership

Build Better
Wrestlers

Build Better
People

Build a Stronger
Community

Programs

Year-round wrestling in Augusta, GA for boys and girls, youth wrestlers, middle school wrestlers, high school wrestlers, adult wrestlers, first-time wrestlers, and advanced competitors across Evans, Martinez, Grovetown, North Augusta, Aiken, Fort Gordon (formerly Fort Eisenhower), and the CSRA. Your first 3 classes are always free.

Youth Wrestling

Pre-K, elementary, middle school, and high school athletes

Youth wrestlers build fundamentals, discipline, confidence, conditioning, and match awareness in a positive club environment.

  • Boys and girls welcome
  • First-time and experienced wrestlers
  • Technique across every position

Girls Wrestling Program

For female athletes

A dedicated program developing female wrestlers in one of America's fastest-growing sports, with coaching for new wrestlers and competitors.

All skill levels welcome

Beginner Wrestling Classes

New to the mat

Beginner wrestlers learn stance, motion, takedowns, defense, mat safety, and the habits needed to enjoy wrestling and improve.

  • Fundamentals & stance
  • Athletic development
  • Confidence building

Intermediate & Advanced Wrestling

Developing and tournament-level athletes

Intermediate and advanced wrestlers train chain wrestling, live wrestling, conditioning, situational wrestling, and state, regional, and national preparation.

  • Technique & chain wrestling
  • Mental toughness
  • Competition preparation

Free Sunday CSRA Practice

Sundays • open to everyone

Free practice is open to wrestlers across the CSRA, including Augusta, Evans, Martinez, Grovetown, North Augusta, Aiken, and Fort Gordon (formerly Fort Eisenhower). See the schedule for times.

All programs are open to wrestlers of every age — placement is by experience level. Not sure where you fit? Reach out and we'll help. You can also jump to schedule or pricing.

Camps, Clinics & Events

Seasonal camps, special clinics, and club events for wrestlers and families. Spots are limited — register early.

Next Week

Timothy Mitchem Elite Wrestling Clinic

July 29–31, 2026 • Middle school and up

Timothy Mitchem Elite Wrestling Clinic promotional flyer View the full Timothy Mitchem clinic flyer (opens in new window)

Three nights of elite wrestling instruction with Coach Timothy Mitchem, a two-time NAIA All-American and longtime collegiate coach who has coached more than 20 All-Americans.

  • Wednesday, July 29, 7:15–9:15 PM
  • Thursday, July 30, 7:15–9:15 PM
  • Friday, July 31, 6:30–8:30 PM

Open to all experience levels in middle school and up. Non-members may drop in for $20.

Homeschool Functional Fitness + Wrestling

Begins August 5, 2026 • Wednesdays + optional Fridays

Homeschool Functional Fitness and Wrestling promotional flyer View the full Homeschool Functional Fitness and Wrestling flyer (opens in new window)

A welcoming weekly program where homeschool athletes build strength, athleticism, confidence, discipline, and wrestling skills in a fun, safe environment.

  • Wednesday functional fitness with Coach Olivia: $50/month
  • Add Friday wrestling with Coach Boyden: $90/month total
  • Four or eight sessions per month
View program details & register

Last Week

Summer Day Camp v4.0

June & July • Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM • 9 weeks

Summer Day Camp v4.0 promotional flyer View the full Summer Day Camp flyer (opens in new window)

A nine-week summer day camp at Backyard Bullies Wrestling Club, 266 Bobby Jones Expressway, Augusta, GA — Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, across June and July. Spots are limited.

Campers work on:

  • Basic functional fitness, agility, and speed development
  • Learning how to face challenges with confidence
  • Building respect for teammates, coaches, and opponents
  • Developing positive communication and leadership skills

Register before May 1st and receive a free shirt. A non-refundable $25-per-week deposit completes registration; the remaining $100 per week is due before the start date.

Register for Summer Camp (opens in new window)

JJ Howland Wrestling Clinic

Saturday, September 26, 2026 • 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

JJ Howland Wrestling Clinic promotional flyer View the full JJ Howland Clinic flyer (opens in new window)

A one-day wrestling clinic with JJ Howland at Backyard Bullies Wrestling Club, 266 Bobby Jones Expressway (Rear Entrance), Augusta, GA 30907 — 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

100% of proceeds are donated to the athletes of Backyard Bullies WC to help with their travel, registration, and gear expenses for the 2026–2027 season.

For more information, contact Justin Boyden at 706-250-0186 or [email protected].

Register for the Clinic (opens in new window)

Weekly Training Schedule

Train Hard. Wrestle Tough. Get Better Together.

Beginners Program

  • Monday · Wednesday · Friday5:00 PM

Intermediate Program

  • Monday · Wednesday6:00 PM
  • Tuesday · Thursday · Friday5:00 PM

Girls Program

  • Tuesday · Thursday6:00–7:15 PM

Advanced Competition Team

  • Monday · Wednesday — Middle School & Beyond7:15 PM
  • Tuesday · Thursday7:15 PM
  • Friday — Middle School & Beyond6:30 PM

Sunday

Free CSRA Practice • 2:00–4:00 PM

Open to all wrestlers in the CSRA — free for youth, middle school, high school, club wrestlers, beginners & experienced athletes.

  • ✔ Technique instruction
  • ✔ Live wrestling
  • ✔ Situational training
  • ✔ New training partners
Check our live calendar for the latest practice times and special events. View Live Calendar

Open the full calendar in a new tab (opens in new window)

Membership & Payments

First 3 classes free, year-round training, and simple billing — we send an invoice by email, or you can pay in person. Call or text us to get started.

Monthly Membership Rates

Pick the number of practices that fits your week — every program included.

  • 2 practices per week $90/mo
  • 3 practices per week $115/mo
  • 4 practices per week $130/mo
  • 5 practices per week $150/mo
Call / Text to Enroll

Discounts Available

  • U.S. Military Appreciation Discount — ask our admin about this discount.
  • Sibling Discount — ask our admin about this discount.

Membership scholarships

Every kid deserves a place on the mat

If dues are what's standing in the way, tell us. Awards are based on need and can cover up to full club dues and/or USA Wrestling membership. Confidential, no income documents required, and you'll hear back within a week.

Scholarship details

How to pay

We keep it simple — we'll send an invoice by email, or you can pay in person. Questions about pricing, discounts, or getting signed up? Call or text 706-250-0186.

Call / Text Us
  • Backyard Bullies blue team singlet
  • Backyard Bullies logo hoodie
  • Backyard Bullies pink team singlet
  • Backyard Bullies sublimated windbreaker jacket
  • Backyard Bullies wrestling headgear
  • Backyard Bullies team gear bag

Rep the Bullies

Gear up in official Backyard Bullies apparel — custom singlets, hoodies, warmups, tees, gear bags, and headgear, all repping the team.

Designs and sizes are managed in our online team store. Store windows open periodically — check current availability there.

Shop the Team Store (opens in new window)

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Meet the Coaches

Experienced volunteer coaches dedicated to developing better wrestlers and better people, on and off the mat.

Coach Justin Boyden

Founder & Head Coach

U.S. military veteran, two-time All-Army Wrestler, and national team coach focused on toughness, accountability, resilience, and leadership beyond the mat.

Bio & highlights

Coaching Philosophy

Building champions on the mat and leaders in life.

Credentials & Highlights

  • Founder & Head Coach, Backyard Bullies Wrestling Club
  • 20+ Years U.S. Military Service
  • Two-Time All-Army Wrestler
  • Pan American Personal Coach
  • Team Georgia National Team Coaching Staff (opens in new window)
  • Team Colorado National Team Coaching Staff
  • Advocate for Youth, Girls, and Community Wrestling
  • Mentor to State, Regional, and National-Level Wrestlers

Justin Boyden is the Founder and Head Coach of Backyard Bullies Wrestling Club, a wrestling organization dedicated to developing athletes through discipline, hard work, and community involvement.

Originally from Beckley, West Virginia, Coach Boyden served more than 20 years in the U.S. military, including multiple combat deployments. Throughout his military career, wrestling remained a constant passion and source of personal growth. As a competitive athlete, he earned recognition as a two-time All-Army Wrestler and developed a coaching philosophy centered on toughness, accountability, and resilience.

Coach Boyden is committed to creating opportunities for all wrestlers regardless of experience level. He has been instrumental in expanding girls wrestling opportunities, organizing free community practices, hosting camps and clinics, and helping athletes pursue their goals on the national stage. His dedication to athlete development has also earned him opportunities to serve as a coach with Team Georgia Wrestling's national team staff.

Beyond wins and losses, Coach Boyden believes wrestling is a vehicle for building character, confidence, and leadership.

Coach Katie Boyden

Co-Owner & Director of Administration

Co-owner and Director of Administration with 15+ years in wrestling — a USA Wrestling pairing official and beach wrestling coach focused on athlete development and growing the wrestling community.

Bio & highlights

Coaching Philosophy

Wrestling builds character, leadership, and lifelong success.

Roles & Highlights

  • Co-Owner, Backyard Bullies Wrestling Club
  • Director of Administration
  • Beach Wrestling Coach
  • USA Wrestling Pairing Official
  • 15+ Years in Wrestling
  • Wrestling Event Coordinator & Administrator
  • Youth Athlete Mentor & Advocate

Katie Boyden is the Co-Owner of Backyard Bullies Wrestling Club, where she serves as Director of Administration and a Beach Wrestling Coach. With more than 15 years of involvement in wrestling, she has dedicated herself to supporting athletes, growing wrestling opportunities, and strengthening the wrestling community at every level.

Her passion for the sport led her to become a Pairing Official with USA Wrestling, where she helps tournaments and competitions run smoothly through accurate event organization and management.

As Director of Administration, Katie oversees club operations, coordinates events, and supports athletes and families so wrestlers can thrive both on and off the mat. As a Beach Wrestling Coach, she promotes one of wrestling's fastest-growing disciplines while helping athletes build confidence, discipline, resilience, and competitive excellence.

Committed to creating opportunities for wrestlers of all ages and skill levels, Katie's leadership and organizational expertise are central to the club's mission to develop champions in wrestling and in life.

Coach Olivia Kendrick

Homeschool Program Head Coach

Homeschool mom and program leader helping young athletes build functional fitness, coordination, strength, confidence, and healthy habits.

Bio & highlights

Coaching Philosophy

Strong bodies, strong minds, strong character.

Credentials & Highlights

  • Homeschool Program Head Coach
  • Homeschool Mom of Three Boys
  • Competitive Cheerleading Background
  • Functional Fitness & Coordination Development
  • Strength, Confidence, and Healthy Habit Building
  • Former Veterinary Technician

Coach Olivia Kendrick serves as the Head Coach of the Backyard Bullies Homeschool Program, bringing energy, leadership, and a passion for helping young athletes develop healthy habits through fitness and physical activity.

A dedicated stay-at-home mom, Olivia currently homeschools her three boys and understands the unique needs of homeschooling families. Her experience as both a parent and educator allows her to create a positive, structured, and engaging environment where athletes can learn, grow, and build confidence.

Growing up, Olivia participated in competitive cheerleading, where she developed a strong foundation in athleticism, teamwork, discipline, and work ethic. She later worked as a veterinary technician, gaining valuable experience in responsibility, communication, and attention to detail.

As the leader of the Backyard Bullies Homeschool Program, Coach Olivia focuses on functional fitness, coordination, strength development, and confidence-building while encouraging athletes to challenge themselves and have fun.

Coach Olivia is proud to serve the Backyard Bullies Wrestling Club community and is committed to helping athletes become stronger, healthier, and more confident both on and off the mat.

Coach Hallee Milot

Strength Program Director

CrossFit Level 1 coach helping athletes build strength safely, develop confidence, and create habits that support discipline, resilience, and mental toughness.

Bio & highlights

Coaching Philosophy

Mental toughness, consistency, and embracing hard things build strength for life.

Credentials & Highlights

  • Strength Program Director, Backyard Bullies Wrestling Club
  • CrossFit Level 1 Certified
  • 5+ Years Training, Competing, and Lifting
  • Endurance Race & Fitness Competition Experience
  • Strength, Confidence, and Resilience Development
  • Homeschool Mom of Three Boys

Hallee Milot is the Strength Program Director for Backyard Bullies Wrestling Club. She is a homeschool mom of three boys, and fitness has become a huge part of her life.

She earned her CrossFit Level 1 certification and has been training, competing, and lifting for over five years. During that time, she developed a passion not only for fitness, but for helping others discover what they are capable of.

One of the biggest lessons she hopes to pass on to young athletes is that they can do hard things. Whether that is lifting a challenging weight, pushing through a tough workout, competing in a wrestling match, staying disciplined with school, helping at home, or choosing to do the right thing when it is difficult, growth happens when athletes embrace challenges.

As Strength Program Director, her goal is to help athletes build strength safely, develop confidence, and create habits that will benefit them both on and off the mat.

Coach Katie Huitron

Assistant Coach

Lifelong combat sports athlete and coach helping wrestlers build confidence, discipline, resilience, and self-belief through hard work and a positive mindset.

Bio & highlights

Coaching Philosophy

Success starts with believing in yourself, working hard, staying focused, and never giving up.

Credentials & Highlights

  • Mixed Martial Arts Since Age Seven
  • Sparring & Grappling Tournament Experience
  • Beach Wrestling Coaching Experience
  • World Championships Coaching Travel to Greece
  • Active MMA, Kickboxing/Muay Thai, and Wrestling Training
  • Faglier's MMA Family Gym

Katie Huitron has been involved in mixed martial arts since the age of seven, developing a lifelong passion for combat sports and athletic competition. As a youth athlete, she competed in numerous sparring and grappling tournaments, building the foundation of discipline, perseverance, and determination that she now brings to coaching and mentoring.

Her journey into wrestling began four years ago when her oldest daughter, Esperanza, stepped onto the mat. Before long, her three younger children followed, turning wrestling into a true family passion. Wanting to support their growth and the growth of other young athletes, Katie began helping coach beach wrestling and quickly discovered a love for mentoring and developing wrestlers of all ages.

One of the proudest moments of her coaching career was traveling to Greece for the World Championships with Esperanza and Josiah, where both athletes earned 7th-place finishes against some of the best competitors in the world.

Today, Katie continues to actively train in MMA, kickboxing/Muay Thai, and wrestling, leading by example and demonstrating that learning and growth never stop. As a proud member of her family's gym, Faglier's MMA, and a coach with Backyard Bullies Wrestling Club, she is committed to creating a supportive environment where athletes are challenged to reach their full potential.

Katie believes that success starts with believing in yourself. Her message to every athlete is simple: if you are willing to work hard, stay focused, and never give up, you can accomplish anything you set your mind to. Philippians 4:13.

Coach Ronnie Jones

Assistant Coach

Former Mercyhurst University wrestler and team captain helping athletes build sound technique, discipline, confidence, and mental toughness.

Bio & highlights

Coaching Philosophy

Challenge athletes to grow, build confidence, and reach their full potential on and off the mat.

Credentials & Highlights

  • Assistant Coach, Backyard Bullies Wrestling Club
  • Mercyhurst University Wrestler
  • Collegiate Team Captain
  • Competed at 184 Pounds
  • New York Multi-Sport Athlete
  • Wrestling, Football & Lacrosse Background

Coach Ronnie Jones is a volunteer wrestling coach with a passion for helping athletes develop sound technique, discipline, and a strong foundation in the sport.

A former wrestler at Mercyhurst University, Ronnie competed at 184 pounds and earned the honor of serving as a team captain during his collegiate career. His leadership, work ethic, and dedication to the sport continue to influence the athletes he coaches today.

Before college, Ronnie was a standout multi-sport athlete from New York, competing in wrestling, football, and lacrosse. His diverse athletic background gives him a unique perspective on athletic development, helping wrestlers improve their technical skills, overall strength, competitiveness, and mental toughness.

At Backyard Bullies Wrestling Club, Coach Ronnie Jones is committed to creating a positive learning environment where athletes are challenged to grow, build confidence, and reach their full potential both on and off the mat. His experience as a high-level competitor and team leader makes him a valuable mentor for wrestlers of all ages and skill levels.

Coach Sean Houston

Lead Mat Coach

Augusta native, Harlem High School wrestler, and Brewton-Parker College competitor focused on fundamentals, mat awareness, discipline, and competitive mindset.

Bio & highlights

Coaching Philosophy

Success is earned through consistency, discipline, and the willingness to do hard things when no one is watching.

Credentials & Highlights

  • Lead Mat Coach, Backyard Bullies Wrestling Club
  • Augusta, Georgia Native
  • Harlem High School Wrestler
  • Brewton-Parker College Wrestler
  • Competed at 174 Pounds
  • National-Level, Freestyle & Collegiate Competition Experience

Coach Sean Houston is a dedicated wrestling coach and accomplished competitor who brings high-level experience and passion to the mat. A native of Augusta, Georgia, Sean developed his wrestling foundation at Harlem High School before continuing his collegiate career at Brewton-Parker College, where he competed at 174 pounds.

As an active wrestler and coach, Sean has competed in national-level events, freestyle competitions, and collegiate wrestling, consistently demonstrating a commitment to technical excellence and continuous improvement. His experience competing against some of the nation's top athletes allows him to provide wrestlers with valuable insight into both the physical and mental aspects of the sport.

At Backyard Bullies Wrestling Club, Coach Sean serves as a Lead Mat Coach, helping athletes build strong fundamentals, develop confidence, and cultivate a relentless work ethic. Known for his positive coaching style and attention to detail, he focuses on teaching proper technique, mat awareness, discipline, and the competitive mindset required for success on and off the wrestling mat.

Coach Sean believes that wrestling is more than a sport: it is a vehicle for developing character, accountability, and resilience. His mission is to help every athlete reach their full potential while fostering a culture of hard work, respect, and relentless pursuit of excellence.

Coach Dale Schmacht

Folkstyle Program Director

Former Illinois state champion and three-time NCAA Division III All-American who teaches hard work, self-discipline, goal setting, and high-level preparation.

Bio & highlights

Coaching Philosophy

Hard work, self-discipline, and achieving established goals: the mindset he teaches every wrestler.

Credentials & Highlights

  • 1979 Illinois State Champion
  • Three-Time NCAA Division III All-American
  • Three-Time Hall of Fame Inductee
  • MD & PhD in Physiology
  • Academic Trauma & Critical Care Surgeon
  • Head Wrestling Coach, Seigler's (since 2008)
  • Folkstyle Program Director, Backyard Bullies (since 2024)
  • Mentor to CSRA State Champions & Place-Winners

Coach Dale Schmacht was born in Rock Island, Illinois, and graduated from Cambridge High School in Cambridge, Illinois. As a high school wrestler, he was the 1978 Illinois Class A state runner-up at 138 pounds and the 1979 Illinois Class A state champion at 145 pounds.

Coach Schmacht continued his wrestling career at Augustana College, where he became a three-time NCAA Division III All-American. After college, he earned both a PhD in Physiology and a Medical Degree before building a career in academic medicine and surgery.

Coach Schmacht has remained active in local coaching for many years, including Head Wrestling Coach at Seigler's Karate Center since 2008 and Folkstyle Program Director at Backyard Bullies Wrestling Club since 2024.

Hard work, self-discipline, and achieving established goals have shaped Coach Schmacht's path in life, and he teaches with that same mindset.

Coach Dusty McKinney

Lead Mat Coach

George Mason wrestler, All-Navy Wrestling Team All-American, American Ninja Warrior competitor, and Navy veteran helping athletes build confidence and grit.

Bio & highlights

Coaching Philosophy

Wrestling builds character, confidence, and grit that lasts a lifetime.

Credentials & Highlights

  • Lead Mat Coach, Backyard Bullies Wrestling Club
  • George Mason University Wrestler
  • All-Navy Wrestling Team
  • All-American Honors
  • American Ninja Warrior Competitor
  • 20 Years United States Navy

Coach Dusty McKinney brings a wealth of wrestling experience, military leadership, and a passion for youth development to Backyard Bullies Wrestling Club.

Born and raised in North Carolina, Coach Dusty's wrestling journey led him to compete at the collegiate level for George Mason University. He also represented the All-Navy Wrestling Team, where he earned All-American honors through his dedication, toughness, and competitive success on the mat.

In addition to his wrestling accomplishments, Coach Dusty has competed on American Ninja Warrior, showcasing his athleticism, determination, and commitment to pushing his limits.

A proud husband and father of two young men, Coach Dusty served his country honorably in the United States Navy for 20 years. His military career helped shape the leadership, discipline, and work ethic that he now brings to coaching young athletes.

Coach Dusty has a deep love for wrestling and is passionate about helping the next generation develop confidence, resilience, and a strong work ethic while discovering a love for the sport.

Coach Daniel Bange

Assistant Coach

Critical Care Registered Nurse and dedicated wrestling coach who leads by example, teaching that discipline and consistency outlast talent alone.

Bio & highlights

Coaching Philosophy

Discipline and consistency will take you farther than talent ever will.

Credentials & Highlights

  • Assistant Coach, Backyard Bullies Wrestling Club
  • Critical Care Registered Nurse
  • Two-Time Youth National Champion (Bird Dog Training)
  • Leads by Example
  • Service, Reliability & Composure Under Pressure
  • Hunting, Fishing & Dog Training

Born in Würzburg, Germany to U.S. Army parents, Coach Daniel Bange has spent his life pursuing excellence through discipline, consistency, and hard work. While he did not begin wrestling until his own children entered the sport, he quickly became a student of the sport and a coach who leads by example.

Long before stepping onto the mat, Daniel built a reputation for commitment and perseverance through competitive bird dog training. As a teenager he trained Boykin Spaniels professionally and won National Championships at ages 15 and 16 with his dog, Louie — early experiences that taught him success is earned through preparation, consistency, and daily effort.

Professionally, Daniel serves as a Critical Care Registered Nurse, where he is known as the teammate others can count on — stepping forward when help is needed and leading with a steady presence. Those same qualities of service, reliability, and composure under pressure are at the core of his coaching philosophy.

As a coach, Daniel believes that what an athlete puts into the sport is what they get out of it. He teaches that discipline and consistency will always outlast talent alone, and he strives to model those values in the wrestling room, at work, and at home.

Outside of coaching, Daniel enjoys hunting, fishing, dog training, and spending time outdoors with his family. He and his wife have been married for 11 years and are passionate about helping young athletes develop the character, work ethic, and resilience needed for success both on and off the mat.

Coach Rachel Bange

Assistant Coach

Former Team Ohio wrestler and Registered Nurse who coaches alongside her husband, teaching perseverance, accountability, leadership, and respect.

Bio & highlights

Coaching Philosophy

Wrestling is more than a sport — it teaches perseverance, accountability, leadership, and respect.

Credentials & Highlights

  • Assistant Coach, Backyard Bullies Wrestling Club
  • High School Wrestler & Team Ohio Competitor
  • Registered Nurse (Emergency Medicine & Case Management)
  • Former Competitive Ballroom Dancer
  • Owner, Yankee Daisy Design Co.
  • Mom of Three

Originally from Columbus, Ohio, Coach Rachel Bange brings a lifelong passion for athletics, competition, and personal growth to the wrestling community. A former wrestler who competed in high school and represented Team Ohio, she understands firsthand the dedication, discipline, and resilience the sport requires.

She also spent many years as a competitive ballroom dancer, developing a deep appreciation for athleticism, body awareness, and the pursuit of excellence — experiences that help her connect with athletes of all ages and abilities.

Rachel is a Registered Nurse with experience in emergency medicine and case management. Her healthcare background strengthened her commitment to service, teamwork, leadership, and staying calm under pressure — qualities she strives to model for every athlete she coaches.

Today, Rachel coaches alongside her husband, helping young wrestlers build strong fundamentals, confidence, and character. She believes wrestling is a powerful tool for teaching perseverance, accountability, leadership, and respect.

Outside the wrestling room, Rachel is the owner of Yankee Daisy Design Co., a custom apparel and embroidery business inspired by her Ohio roots and Southern home. She and her husband are raising three active children and are passionate about helping young athletes grow into strong competitors and even stronger individuals.

Coach Blaine Carter

Assistant Coach

Lakeside High School graduate, three-time region champion, state placer, and All-State football and wrestling athlete helping young wrestlers grow on and off the mat.

Bio & highlights

Coaching Philosophy

Wrestling builds discipline, perseverance, accountability, and the character needed to become champions in life.

Credentials & Highlights

  • Assistant Coach, Backyard Bullies Wrestling Club
  • 2002 Lakeside High School Graduate
  • Three-Time Region Champion at 215 Pounds
  • State Placer at 215 Pounds
  • All-State Honors in Football & Wrestling
  • National Tournament Winner, 1999-2002
  • Wrestling Since 1997
  • Local Burn Center Volunteer

Coach Blaine Carter is a volunteer assistant coach who brings nearly three decades of wrestling experience to Backyard Bullies Wrestling Club.

A 2002 graduate of Lakeside High School, Blaine built a successful athletic career as a wrestler and football player. During his high school wrestling career, he was a three-time region champion at 215 pounds, a state placer at 215 pounds, and earned All-State honors in both football and wrestling.

From 1999 to 2002, Blaine won numerous national wrestling tournaments while competing at a high level. His passion for wrestling began in 1997 and has remained a major part of his life ever since.

Coach Carter enjoys helping young athletes develop not only as competitors, but also as individuals. He believes wrestling teaches discipline, perseverance, accountability, and the character traits needed to become champions both on and off the mat.

Outside of wrestling, Blaine enjoys fishing, hunting, competing in BBQ competitions, and volunteering at the local burn center in Augusta. Family is his greatest priority. He is the proud father of Isabel, Olivia, and Knox, and is engaged to Deanne, a nurse and official snack wrestling mom. His son, Knox, is passionate about wrestling and embraces everything the sport has to offer, making it especially rewarding for Blaine to share his love of wrestling with the next generation.

Wrestling FAQ

Answers to common questions from parents and athletes looking for wrestling in Augusta, GA and across the CSRA.

Is Backyard Bullies good for beginner wrestlers?

Yes. Beginner wrestlers learn stance, motion, basic attacks, defense, mat safety, and how practice works. Coaches focus on confidence, discipline, and steady progress, not throwing new athletes into situations before they are ready. Your first 3 classes are free.

What age can kids start wrestling?

Backyard Bullies works with wrestlers from pre-K and elementary age on up through middle school and high school, plus adults. Younger athletes are placed by readiness, attention span, and experience level. If you are not sure where your child fits, call or text and we will help you choose the right practice.

Do you train adults?

Yes. Adults are welcome and train within our existing classes, with placement by experience level rather than age. Whether you are brand new to wrestling or getting back on the mat, call or text and we will point you to the right practice. Your first 3 classes are free.

Do you offer girls wrestling in Augusta?

Yes. Backyard Bullies offers a girls wrestling program in Augusta, GA for female athletes of all skill levels. Girls can build fundamentals, train with serious partners, and prepare for school, club, and tournament competition.

What is the difference between beginner, intermediate, and advanced practices?

Beginner practices focus on fundamentals and confidence. Intermediate practices add more technique, chain wrestling, conditioning, and match awareness. Advanced practices are for wrestlers preparing for tougher competition, live situations, and state, regional, or national goals.

What days and times are practices?

Practices run throughout the week, with beginner, intermediate, girls, and advanced sessions scheduled Monday through Friday. Free CSRA Practice is Sunday from 2:00-4:00 PM. Check the weekly schedule for the current breakdown.

How much does wrestling training cost?

Monthly membership starts at $90 for two practices per week and goes up to $150 for five practices per week. Drop-in sessions are $15. See membership and pricing for the full list.

Can my child try a class before signing up?

Yes. Your first 3 classes are free so your child can meet the coaches, try practice, and see whether Backyard Bullies is a good fit. Call or text before you come in so we can point you to the right session.

Reviews and Testimonials

Families and wrestlers recommend Backyard Bullies for coaching quality, athlete growth, and a welcoming room for beginners through experienced competitors.

Rated 5.0 on Google from 18 reviews.

100% recommended on Facebook from 5 reviews.

Frank M.

★★★★★ Google review · 3 months ago

“If you ever considered wrestling for your children, Backyard Bullies is the place to start! You will find world class instruction.”
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Get Better Together

Your first 3 classes are free. Call or text us, drop in for Sunday open practice, or come see what Backyard Bullies is all about.

Located in Augusta, GA

Backyard Bullies Wrestling Club is located at 266 Bobby Jones Expressway, rear entrance, Augusta, GA, serving Augusta, Evans, Martinez, Grovetown, North Augusta, Aiken, Fort Gordon (formerly Fort Eisenhower), and the CSRA.

Location
266 Bobby Jones Expressway (Rear Entrance)
Augusta, GA 30907
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  • ✅ First 3 classes free
  • ✅ Year-round training
  • ✅ Girls wrestling program
  • ✅ Open Sunday practices
  • ✅ Tournament preparation
  • ✅ Positive team environment

From the Mat

The latest straight from our TikTok — practices, camps & tournaments. Follow us on TikTok (opens in new window), Instagram (opens in new window) & Facebook (opens in new window).