Rocky Nelson, who led Heber Mogollon to the first Division IV wrestling championship in 2011, has been named as one of 20 national coaches of the year by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Coaches Associaton.

Mogollon outdistanced second-place Morenci and third-place Camp Verde for the title.

Mogollon also won the old Class 1A-2A title in 1995, finished second in 2001 and was third in 2000, 2002 and 2003.

Factors in consideration for the award are the coach’s record, membership in or affiliation with coaching and other professional organizations, involvement with school and other community activities and programs and coaching philosophy.

Mogollon has a strong chance to repeat as champion in 2012 with the return of three state-champion wrestlers from last season, Dallyn Despain (119 pounds), Smiley Beecroft (125) and Boone Baker (171).