Bulldog and Friends

Grit, Gold, and Glory: The Wrestling Life of Pat O’Donnell

Episode Notes

In this powerhouse episode of Bulldog and Friends, Todd Buller sits down with one of Pacific Grove’s finest — Pat O’Donnell, Hall of Famer, teacher, coach, and wrestling legend. From his days battling on the mat to his years shaping young athletes as a coach and administrator, Pat brings stories of grit, humor, and heart that capture what true discipline looks like

Pat reflects on his wrestling journey — from cutting seven pounds in under an hour, to finding joy in the grind of competition, and the unique rush that comes from pushing yourself (and your opponent) to the limit. He shares what made wrestling different from any other sport, how it shaped his character, and how those same lessons carried into teaching, leadership, and life after retirement.

Listeners also get to hear about:

His bucket list trip to see a football game at Notre Dame Stadium
The legendary Hitchcock Wrestling Camps at Squaw Valley and their impact on generations of athletes
How the O’Donnell family made their mark on Pacific Grove athletics
Why The Godfather and Rudy still rank among his all-time favorite films
His love for college football Saturdays, and what sport he’d steal an all-time great for

The episode closes with Pat reflecting on coaching, friendship, and finding fulfillment after 40 years in education — all while Bulldog reminds listeners of the mission of Saving Innocence, a cause close to the heart of the show.

Whether you’re a sports junkie, a wrestling purist, or just someone who loves a great story about perseverance and purpose, this one’s for you.