The New Jersey wrestling community is mourning the loss of Coach Craig Spencer, a respected and beloved figure who has passed away.
Known for his passion, leadership, and decades-long commitment to the sport, Coach Spencer made a lasting impact on countless athletes throughout his career.
Spencer began his head coaching career at Pequannock Township High School (PTHS) in 1975, where he led the wrestling team until 1988.
During his time there, he became the first coach in school history to surpass 100 wins, finishing with an impressive 113-55-5 record.
In his later years, he continued to mentor young wrestlers as an assistant coach at West Milford High School, where he remained involved until his passing.
Family And Friends Mourn The Loss Of The Coach
He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Addie, their two children, Michelle and Paul, and grandchildren George and Logan. He lived in Ringwood, New Jersey.
Louis Ricardii shared his condolences, remembering Coach Spencer as a true gentleman both on and off the wrestling mat.
The wrestling community lost a legend today. A life dedicated to the sport and wrestlers across NJ. So many impacted by his presence on the mat. Proud to have coached with and be coached by him. Rest in peace to Coach Craig Spencer. We love you! pic.twitter.com/h3KaCw0P3P
— West Milford Wrestling (@wmhswrestling) June 14, 2025
As a longtime official, he had the honor of being part of many matches where Spencer was coaching and always held great respect for him and his wrestlers.
Ricardii expressed how deeply the New Jersey wrestling community feels this loss and said Coach Spencer will always be remembered.
RIP Coach Spencer I had the privilege of officiating numerous matches with you coaching on the bench or in the corner !! Over my career nothing but respect for you and your wrestlers 🤼, You were a gentleman on and off the wrestling mat . I feel honored to have known you . I’m sure all of the NJ wrestling 🤼 community has heavy hearts with your passing , you will never be forgotten!! My friend
Louis Ricarddi
Similarly, Sierra Basile shared a touching memory about Coach Spencer, saying it was special that he coached both her and her mother during their high school years.
She called him a true “Nock legend” and said he will never be forgotten, honoring the lasting legacy he left behind.
I thought it was so cool that the same coach that coached my mom in high-school, also coached me in high school
Sierra Basil
You will never be forgotten, rest in peace
Nock legend
Spencer’s influence stretched far beyond the wrestling mat.
Under his guidance, the team captured five district championships, three league titles, and produced 28 individual district champions and eight state qualifiers.
After his success at PTHS, Spencer went on to coach at Kean College from 1988 to 1995, followed by a long run at Lakeland High School from 1995 to 2008.
Those who knew him, coached with him, or wrestled for him often speak of the life lessons he taught about discipline, perseverance, and respect.
Rest in Peace, Coach Craig Spencer!
