Former Salina Wrestling Coach Charged with Filming Minors in Shower

Accused of creating child sexual abuse materials during high school tournament

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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A former teacher and wrestling coach in Salina, Kansas has been charged with two counts of production of child pornography and one count of attempted production of child pornography. Ryan Brungardt, 37, is accused of using a cellphone to secretly record three minors showering during a high school wrestling tournament in Newton, Kansas in January 2024.

Why it matters

The allegations against Brungardt are extremely disturbing and highlight the need for increased safeguards and oversight to protect student-athletes, especially minors, from predatory behavior by those in positions of trust and authority. This case has shaken the local community and raises broader questions about the safety of youth sports environments.

The details

According to court documents, Brungardt is a former teacher at Lakewood Middle School and former wrestling coach for Salina Central High School. He is accused of using a cellphone to record three minors while they showered in a locker room during the Tournament of Champions wrestling event at Newton High School in January 2024. Investigators are also reviewing additional seized cellphone videos suspected to have been recorded at other wrestling meets and tournaments in Kansas during the 2023-2024 season.

  • Brungardt was charged on March 4, 2026.
  • A detention hearing is scheduled for March 9, 2026.

The players

Ryan Brungardt

A 37-year-old former teacher at Lakewood Middle School and former wrestling coach for Salina Central High School, who is accused of secretly filming minors showering during a high school wrestling tournament.

Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI)

The state law enforcement agency investigating the case against Brungardt.

Salina Police Department

The local police department assisting in the investigation.

Newton Police Department

The local police department where the alleged crimes occurred at Newton High School.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Monday, March 9, 2026 whether or not to allow Ryan Brungardt to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This disturbing case highlights the critical need for robust safeguards, training, and oversight in youth sports environments to protect minors from predatory behavior by those in positions of authority. It underscores the importance of swift action and thorough investigations to hold perpetrators accountable and provide justice for victims.