Hiram College

Kirst is set for his first season as head coach of the Hiram women's wrestling program in 2026-27 following one season as an assistant coach with the Terriers men's team. Kirst also has wrestling coaching experience with CWRU (2023-2024), Ashland University (2015-2021), Heidelberg University (2013), Lake Erie College (2011), Cleveland State University's Club program (2010-2012), Bay High School (2010-2011), Lakewood St. Edward High School (2007-2010), and Ashland Crestview High School (2006-2007). 

Alongside men’s wrestling head coach Dustin Porter, Kirst helped spearhead the Terriers to a fourth-place finish at the PAC Championships this past February. On an individual level, Kirst worked closely with freshman Taveon Moss, who set the single-season record for pins (17), won the PAC title at 125 lbs and earned PAC Newcomer of the Year. Both Will Brodbeck and Dino Longo also earned All-PAC awards under the leadership of Kirst.

As a collegiate wrestler at Division II Ashland, Kirst was a four-time NCAA Division II national qualifier and one of the winningest wrestlers in program history (116). At the 197-lb weight class, Kirst also earned D-II All-American honors.

Kirst and his wife, Beth, reside in Avon with their daughters, Amelia and Coraline.