Today, wrestling coach David Quirino was inducted into Randall’s Hall of Fame. Quirino has spent over three decades dedicating himself to coaching and was recognized for the time, effort, and energy he has put into Randall.
“I’m stumbling for a loss of words because I’m shocked by the fact that I get to be a part of a wall that has so many fantastic, wonderful human beings, and it feels very humbling,” Quirino said.
Quirino got his start at Randall in the fall of 1995, freshly out of college. This year will be his 31st year of coaching.
“What inspired me to start coaching was all of the coaches in my life,” Quirino said. “I had a lot of great men and women who poured energy, effort, and knowledge into my cup.”
Over the last 30 years, Quirino has taken home 10 team state championships and countless individual state champions. His career is decorated with the success he has had in the wrestling program.
“Not only is Coach Quirino one of the most tenured teachers/coaches at Randall High School, but he is also one of the most successful,” principal Travis Willard said. “He has helped shape the culture at Randall with the idea that grit, toughness and discipline are the vital skills we need to get through anything in life.”
Quirino’s wrestlers describe him as someone who roots for them and wants them to succeed as people too.
“My favorite thing about Coach Q is how much he wants us to succeed,” senior Daniel Acosta said. “He has taught me two sets of three. Never lie, never cheat, and never steal. Don’t whine, don’t complain, and don’t make excuses. This is something that I have taken off the mat and into my life.”
Quirino says that he wants his athletes to emerge from the wrestling program not just as good wrestlers, but as good men.
“We have a good system in place and can teach someone how to wrestle well, but the bigger goal is producing kids for the community and peers that people can turn to,” Quirino said. “We try to teach boys to become quality men.”
