Hempstead, NY - Hofstra University Head Wrestling Coach Dennis Papadatos completed his coaching staff for the 2023-24 season with the appointment of Ernest James to the position of associate head wrestling coach. James joins the Pride following a four-year stint at his alma mater, Edinboro University. 

"I am really excited to welcome Ernest to our staff," said Papadatos. "He is a tremendous coach and teacher, and brings a great deal of experience to our room. He is someone that I have wanted to work with for a long time and I am glad it worked out in our favor. I know he will have a great impact on our student-athletes."

During his tenure at Edinboro, James helped coach six NCAA Championship qualifiers and 18 Mid-American Conference placewinners. He also had a big part in Edinboro's 2020 recruiting class being ranked in the top-25 nationally. In addition he oversaw the team's academic performance that saw numerous Dean's List honorees and two College Sports Communicators Academic All-District selections. 

James enjoyed an outstanding career for the Fighting Scots between 2009 and 2014. He excelled as a heavyweight for Edinboro and was a three-time NCAA Division I National qualifier. James compiled a career record of 100-49 with 37 falls. He won one EWL and one PSAC championship and was a four-time conference placewinner. He ranks eighth in career falls at Edinboro and is in the top 30 in career victories. James was also a U23 Freestyle All-American.
 
Prior to coaching at Edinboro, James spent the 2018-19 school year as a volunteer assistant coach at West Virginia University. He previously trained with the Valley Regional Training Center, run out of Fresno State, in 2017-18.
 
James earned his degree in HPE-Human Performance from Edinboro in December 2014. He served internships with Saint Vincent Hospital in cardiac rehab and corporate wellness, along with a stint at Eberle's Physical Therapy.