Denis’ love of the sport began when he participated on his high school teams back in New Jersey. In 1970 Denis initiated Freshman Wrestling at Melrose High School and from 1972-1976 was Varsity Wrestling Coach at Stoneham High School.

Denis's greatest accomplishments and contributions in the sport of wrestling came in the area of officiating. Denis has been a member of the New England Interscholastic Wrestling Officials Association since 1971 and a Member of the Massachusetts Interscholastic Wrestling Officials Association since 1974.

For over 10 years Denis has either served on the Executive Committee or been President of both the New England Interscholastic Officials Association and the Massachusetts Interscholastic Officials Association. Denis has also officiated at countless All-State, New England and National tournaments and has served as head official at all levels. Denis was also very instrumental in initiating the official's ratings of high school wrestling programs; this is a program designed to foster sportsmanship and professionalism in high school wrestling in addition to establishing the criteria for Sportsmanship awards.

Denis and his wife Valerie live in Melrose and have 3 grown children: Edward, Steve and Annie. According to Denis, “most important of all is being blessed so abundantly with so many great friendships, great experiences, good health and the opportunity to be closer than anyone to witness so many young people wrestle their best, win or lose.”