Q&A with Hugo Muñoz

What led you to FWCD?

Coach Joe Murph gave me the opportunity when I was a teenager to train with his team from 2001 to 2004 in the offseason. The moment I drove onto campus, I was impressed with the facilities and the level of wrestling from his team. I knew attending FWCD at that time was out of the question, but remember telling my mother how great it would be if I got to coach there one day! Now, as a Coach and PE Teacher at the School, my daughter, Sophia [’31], is a student. It’s crazy how it all works out.

Did you always want to be a teacher and a coach?

As a student, my teachers believed in me and pushed me to strive for excellence. At one point, I thought they were harder on me than other kids and complained, but as I matured, I understood they were setting the bar high and wanted me to see my potential. As a result, that’s what my goal is with my students and athletes. I teach first, third and fourth grade students and enjoy teaching students basic athletic skills. I strive to be silly and to connect with students while working out, playing games, and teaching them to interact positively with their peers.

What do you love about coaching and teaching?

I love that my job is never the same and that I am helping students evolve as athletes, in and out of competition. Some of the best lessons my kids learn are not related to their sport but rather the character they build through their sport.

My coaching philosophy is built around attitude and effort. You can convince your body and mind to accomplish great things with a great attitude. As an athlete, you cannot control outcomes; instead, you must focus on your efforts in practice and competition. I like to believe that I lead by example. I am still an active competitor in Grappling and JiuJitsu competitions. I understand the feeling the kids have when competing, and I always want to support them and give them the resources they need to succeed.

Why do you support the School and its annual fund?

I understand the importance our facilities play in being able to teach to the best of my abilities. I am also proud that The FWCD Fund helps support kids who desire to attend the School with tuition assistance. This year, I was a Faculty/Staff FWCD Fund Co-chair with Andréanne Annis. I took on this challenge to give back for all the opportunities I have been afforded at FWCD. Without the ability to train with Coach Murph, my love for wrestling would not have translated to success in life. I am also blessed to be a Falcon parent and want Sophia to have the best opportunities in academics, arts and athletics.