Jerry brings 25 years of wrestling
and coaching experience to the Van Buren Program. After a successful
high school career at Liberty Center, where he was a state place winner,
Coach Gerken went on to compete at the National and International
level as a Marine. Upon completing his tour, Coach Gerken went on
to compete at the University of Findlay, where he earned All-American
Honors. Following graduation from the University of Findlay, Coach
Gerken spent the next several years coaching at the high school and
college levels. Coach Gerken lives in Findlay with his wife Tina and
daughters Tessa and Tabitha.