Over 1.2M+ Followers Worldwide
Jacob 'JJ' Howland
The most followed wrestling coach on social media brings over 30 years of wrestling knowledge, life-changing mindset training, and championship-level conditioning to your program.
About JJ Howland
U.S. Marine Veteran, Retired Wrestler, Elite Combat Sports Coach & Mental Health Advocate
Jacob 'JJ' Howland is a United States Marine Corps veteran, retired competitive wrestler, elite-level combat sports coach, and mental health and addiction recovery advocate known by millions worldwide. With a global social media following of over 1,200,000, JJ stands as a powerful force in the worlds of wrestling, MMA, jiu-jitsu, and veteran's mental health.
From surviving combat in Operation Iraqi Freedom to battling PTSD, addiction, and depression, JJ's life is defined by one word: resilience. And in 2024, he proved that once again by securing a 2nd-place finish at the USA Wrestling Folkstyle Nationals—a remarkable feat accomplished just months after undergoing a two-level neck fusion surgery to repair blown discs and nerve damage between his C5-C7 vertebrae.
JJ has been featured in Wrestling Insider Newsmagazine (WIN), multiple news outlets around the nation, and is a sponsored athlete with 1stPhorm, LevelXBlack, & CH Gear. In addition to being a sponsored athlete, JJ is a collaborative partner with military clothing apparel company Ranger Up.
A Wrestling Legacy — Built Under Hall of Fame Leadership
JJ comes from a multi-generational wrestling family, deeply rooted in tradition and toughness. He was trained by National Wrestling Hall of Fame Coach Keith Lowrance, one of the most respected names in the sport, and was molded by the legendary Granby System—a style known for its unmatched fluidity, positional strength, counterattacks, and relentless pace. This elite foundation became the bedrock of his success both on and off the mat.
From the Mat to the Military — Forged in Discipline
JJ's transition from wrestling to the U.S. Marine Corps was seamless, thanks to the discipline and resilience he cultivated in the sport. As a Marine, he served with distinction, including a combat tour in Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom, gaining firsthand experience in high-pressure leadership, trauma, and perseverance.
The Hardest Fight — Recovery From Trauma, Addiction & Surgery
After returning home, JJ faced a different kind of war—mental health challenges, PTSD, and substance addiction. But rock bottom was not the end. Through therapy, faith, and daily discipline, JJ rebuilt his mind, body, and life. And when most would have walked away from the mat for good, JJ underwent two-level neck fusion surgery to repair severe cervical spine damage—and came back stronger. JJ made the National Finals in the 2024 USAWrestling Masters Nationals, but due to a torn ACL in his left knee, medically forfeited the finals. Nevertheless, his runner-up finish was a testament to the power of determination and comeback.
Global Coaching Impact — Training the Next Generation of Champions
Though officially retired from competition, JJ is one of the most sought-after coaches in the combat sports world today. He travels the world year-round, leading wrestling clinics and camps for thousands of athletes of all ages. JJ works hands-on with professional mixed martial artists, top-level Brazilian jiu-jitsu competitors, and elite wrestlers, blending high-level technical training with unmatched mindset coaching.
Mental Health Advocate | Global Combat Sports Coach | Veteran Leader
JJ Howland's mission is bigger than medals or titles—it's about impact. Whether he's coaching on the mat, mentoring fellow veterans, or sharing his truth online, JJ is committed to helping others fight through pain, overcome adversity, and rebuild with purpose. His various Social Media Platforms are followed by over 1,200,000 people worldwide, serving as a daily source of motivation, mental strength, and authentic, no-BS inspiration.
Reclaim, Rebuild, & Redefine your life!
Services & Expertise
Comprehensive programs designed to elevate performance and transform lives
Wrestling Clinics
Elite technique training, conditioning programs, and championship mindset development for wrestlers of all levels.
Motivational Speaking
Powerful keynotes that inspire action, build resilience, and unlock potential in individuals, athletes, and teams.
Community Building
Creating lasting connections and support networks that strengthen teams and communities through fitness and various outreach programs.
Veteran & Addiction Support
Specialized programs helping veterans and individuals overcome addiction and mental health challenges.
2026 Schedule
Upcoming camps, clinics, and events across the nation
Book Coach JJ Howland
Request Coach JJ Howland for your 2026 wrestling camps & clinics
Book Coach Jacob 'JJ' Howland for your teams' next Camp/Clinic!
The MOST Followed Wrestling Coach on Social Media (Over 1,200,000 worldwide followers)
Brings over 30 years of Wrestling knowledge, overcoming life's obstacles, physical conditioning, and positive mindset training to your team!
Important Information:
- • Submitting does NOT guarantee availability - Demand is extremely high and dates are limited
- • We will begin contacting selected programs in January/February for the 2026 calendar year
- • Only 2 Remaining Dates left open for 2026!
Our Camp Format Includes:
We Offer:
Both 1 & 2-day clinics/camps that will be team-specific to your team! All Camps/Clinics are charged on a flat-rate, per day basis, allowing the host teams the ability to maximize these camps as fundraisers for their program!