Mr. James Denune coaches wrestling at RULH High School. He was born on July 24, 1972, and grew up in Sunbury, OH, a small town north of Columbus. He graduated from Big Walnut High School in 1990, and was very active in athletics. He played off-guard and nose tackle for the football team, wrestled, and ran track. He was league champion in the 140 lb. weight class his senior year, with a 29-6 record, and a three time district qualifier. He ran the 800, mile, and 2 mile relay, two of which he was also league champion.

From 1990-1995, he was enrolled at the Ohio State University, and obtained a B.S. in Exercise Science. While in college, he worked as a personal trainer, and wrestled for the OSU practice squad for two years. From 1996-1998, he attended the University of Rio Grande, where he recieved a B.A. in Health and Physical Education, and is K-12 certified.

Mr. Denune first began coaching at Big Walnut High School as novice wrestling coach, from 1989-1994. He was promoted to Assistant Coach from 1991-1994. From 1994 to 1997, he was Highland's Jr. High wrestling coach. From 1999 to present, he's head coach here at RULH High School.

In 1989, Mr. Denune placed 3rd in the nation in Olympic Lifting in the 24 year old and under class. In 1995, he placed 3rd in the nation in the drug free bench press in the 24 year-old and under class, and 4th in the nation in the open class.

Both of Mr. Denune's parents are teachers, his brother is an Offensive Coordinator for Bridgewater State University, in Boston, MA, and his sister is in college at Columbus State University.