About Us
COMMITTED TO HELPING ATHLETES DIG FOR GOLD ON AND OFF THE MAT.
Gold Rush Wrestling Academy (Gold Rush) is committed to providing athletes with the best training possible. The Gold Rush philosophy begins with an emphasis on correct form, proper technique, and precise execution. This philosophy results in the best competitive performance possible. Adhering to mental preparation, strength, and flexibility allows us to accomplish our goals. While we are striving for excellence in every program at Gold Rush, we remember that the pursuit of victory without FUN, is actually NO FUN at all.
- Develops Overall Athleticism
Balance, strength, coordination, and overall body awareness is fundamental in having success in the sport of wrestling. Year after year kids will start each practice with a warmup of gymnastics, calisthenics, and activities that develop these skills. It provides a foundation of overall athleticism.
- Promotes Mental Resilience
Wrestling also helps develop mental and emotional resilience. Like no other sport, wrestling triggers the emotions of athletes. When you suffer losses and setbacks they are often painful and uncomfortable. However, through the process individuals can develop resilience that will last a lifetime.
- Teaching Self-Defense
One of the most common issues kids deal with today is bullying and the best way to ensure that you’re not a victim of physical violence is by learning self-defense. Wrestling is the most important skill-set required in combat sports today because it has the ability to control where the battle goes. Knowing how to wrestle could very easily help anyone in a situation of self-defense.
Members the past 3 years
Our Trainer
Chase Pami
Owner, Head Coach, & CEO
In 2020, Pami founded Gold Rush Wrestling Academy in Las Vegas, aiming to provide high-level training and personal development for wrestlers in Nevada. The academy offers programs for various age groups and skill levels, emphasizing discipline and excellence
Wrestling Career
High School: Pami was a two-time Nevada State wrestling champion.
Collegiate: At Cal Poly, he was a two-time NCAA All-American and a national runner-up at 157 pounds in 2010. He also secured two PAC-10 Conference titles and earned his degree in Communication Studies.
International: Transitioning to freestyle wrestling, Pami achieved notable success, including:
Gold at the 2017 Paris International
Third place at the 2018 U.S. Open at 70kg
Multiple World Cup appearances in 2012 and 2013
Top finishes at the 2012 NYAC International and the 2012 U.S. Olympic Trials
Coaching Experience
Air Force Academy (2015–2016): Served as an assistant coach, bringing his elite-level experience to the program.
University of Pennsylvania (2017–2019): Worked as a volunteer assistant coach, contributing to the development of multiple NCAA qualifiers and All-Ivy wrestlers.
Pennsylvania Regional Training Center (PRTC): Transitioned to an assistant coach role, focusing on guiding senior-level athletes and fostering their growth both on and off the mat.
Instructional Contributions
Pami has developed a four-volume instructional series titled Gold Rush Takedowns, focusing on fundamental wrestling techniques and strategies. This series is designed to help wrestlers enhance their skills and achieve success on the mat.
Legacy
Chase Pami’s journey from a state champion in Nevada to an elite international wrestler and respected coach underscores his dedication to the sport. His contributions continue to inspire and shape the future of wrestling in the United States.
Antonio Saldate
General Manager & Head Coach | Gold Rush Reno
I am a dedicated coach with a vision to elevate the sport of wrestling in the state of Nevada. My goal is to see our wrestling community prosper, creating an environment where every athlete can consistently grow. With a deep understanding of the sport and a commitment to continuous growth, I am passionate about helping athletes to reach their full potential and achieve their individual goals.
High School Achievements
Las Vegas High School
3X Nevada State Champion
4X Nevada State Finalist
3X High School All-American
Collegiate
CareerCalifornia Baptist University – Division 1 program 2-year starter
Life University – Competed for the #2 ranked NAIA wrestling program
Proud to be contributing member of the Reno, Sparks, and Carson City community.
The coaches at Gold Rush not only helped him excel in the sport but showed him a side of wrestling that had Everett falling in love with it.
We have taken our kids to a variety of wrestling programs and clubs around Reno over the years and nobody has been able to impact them the way Gold Rush has.
As a parent I really appreciate the leadership of Joey and his coaching staff and the accountability they demand of their athletes. We love Gold Rush!