Born and raised in upstate New York, Coach Jason Eldridge discovered his love for wrestling at a young age and carried it through high school. His lifelong dedication to the sport is matched only by his commitment to family—he began dating his wife Jillian at just 13 years old, and she has supported him every step of the way, never missing a single match.

After high school, Jason enlisted in the U.S. Army, where he deployed to Afghanistan, helping establish Bagram Airfield and leading efforts during Operation Anaconda. While serving, Jason and Jillian welcomed their first daughter, Jade. In 2004, he transitioned into the U.S. Air Force, where he deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, serving as security for the ACS and leading convoys. During this time, the couple had their second daughter, Jenna—and Jason began to realize his passion for coaching.

In 2006, while stationed at Mountain Home Air Force Base, Jason helped establish a youth wrestling program, starting with just 15 athletes. By the end of their first season, 13 wrestlers had placed at the Youth State Championships. The following year, as head coach, he grew the program to 37 athletes, sparking what would become a lifelong calling.

After leaving active duty in 2008, Jason returned to New York, joined the Air Reserves, and became a federal officer. He and Jillian welcomed their third daughter, Juliana, and the family fully immersed themselves in the wrestling community. Jason coached across multiple clubs and programs, eventually serving as the Women’s National Travel Team Coach, providing athletes opportunities to compete across New York and the entire East Coast.

In 2019, the Air Force sent Jason to Biloxi, MS, for Senior Non-Commissioned Officers School. Upon returning, the Eldridge family followed God’s calling to move to Alabama. Since then, Jason has coached with the River Rats Wrestling Club and launched his own program, Alpha Elite, which has experienced consistent 20% growth each year.