A diver takes their position on the board as new dive coach Jacob Rewa steps onto the deck, ready to lead the Titans into the new season with fresh and bright energy. A former CIF champion and league record holder for Boys One Meter Dive, Rewa brings competitive experience, with local roots to Poway High, and a team-first mindset to the program. Although this is his first official coaching job, his background in athletics and exposure to long-term coaching success have shaped his way into Poway High.
Rewa graduated from San Pasqual High School in 2021 and from the University of California, Los Angeles in spring 2025 with a degree in philosophy. Coaching runs in the family. His grandfather, Wayne Branstetter, coached the Poway wrestling team for 40 years. Growing up around that environment showed him that great coaching is more important than wins and records.
“I have never coached before, but I grew up watching my grandpa as the wrestling coach for Poway. Beyond all the state titles and national rankings, I loved seeing all the lives he impacted throughout his career. Although in a different sport, I can’t wait to follow in his coaching legacy at Poway,” Rewa said.
Before diving, Rewa spent years in gymnastics during Jacob Rewa elementary and middle school years, developing body control, air awareness, and discipline. He switched to diving in high school and quickly rose through the ranks.
As a sophomore, he took second place at CIF and later placed 20th in the state. In his senior year, he set a league record and won CIF. He also trained with a club team at San Diego State University for a short time, gaining high-level experience to help bring his future as a coach to life.
“When I heard about all his CIF wins, state titles, league records, and overall successful career. I knew he would be the perfect fit for Poway High,” Athletic Director Damian Gonzalez said.
Rewa is especially eager to recruit athletes with backgrounds in gymnastics, cheer, dance, tumbling, or swimming, since many of those skills connect to diving. Rewa plans to emphasize strength, conditioning, and time in the weight room. Just as important, he wants the team environment to be fun, motivating, and connected through exciting team-bonding activities.
He is excited about athletes from both Poway and San Pasqual training together. With new leadership and bright energy, the dive program is ready to make waves this season.
