Hjerling brings more than two decades of NCAA Division I coaching experience, national-level success, and a proven track record of developing high-performing cadet-athletes. He joins VFMC after a distinguished career at The Citadel, where he served as head coach for 21 years.

During his tenure, The Citadel achieved some of its strongest competitive results. Hjerling coached four NCAA Division I All-Americans and more than 30 NCAA qualifiers. His 2004 squad captured both the Southern Conference tournament championship and the dual-meet title, marking one of the program’s best seasons. He was named SoCon Coach of the Year twice.

Before entering coaching, Hjerling wrestled at American University, where he earned a conference championship, a berth in the NCAA Championships, and the conference’s Most Outstanding Wrestler honors. His coaching career includes roles at American University and George Mason University before his long-standing success at The Citadel.