Bob Siddens

1977 Iowa Wrestling Hall of Fame Inductee

April 29, 1925 – September 27, 2018

Robert S. “Bob” Siddens (April 29, 1925 – September 27, 2018) was a monumental figure in American wrestling, renowned for his exceptional coaching career, officiating contributions, and mentorship of legendary athletes. Born in Eagle Grove, Iowa, Siddens developed a passion for wrestling under the guidance of coach Art Parsons at Eagle Grove High School, becoming a four-time state tournament qualifier and two-time state runner-up.

After high school, Siddens attended Iowa State Teachers College (now the University of Northern Iowa) in Cedar Falls, where he contributed to the Panthers’ national prominence in wrestling. Upon graduation, he returned to Eagle Grove to coach for a season before accepting the head wrestling coach position at West Waterloo High School in 1950.

Over his 27-year tenure at West Waterloo, Siddens transformed the wrestling program into a powerhouse. His teams achieved a remarkable dual meet record of 327 wins, 26 losses, and 3 ties, including an impressive streak of 88 consecutive dual meet victories over seven years. Under his leadership, the Warhawks secured 11 state team championships, were state runners-up seven times, and finished third on three occasions. Notably, from 1965 to 1972, his teams clinched six of eight state champion crowns.

Siddens coached 130 state place winners, including 51 individual state champions. Among his most distinguished pupils was Dan Gable, who became an Olympic gold medalist and is often regarded as one of the greatest wrestlers in history. Gable credited Siddens with significantly shaping his wrestling career and personal development.

Beyond coaching, Siddens was a respected wrestling official, refereeing at a record 27 NCAA tournaments, more than any other official at the time. He also conducted numerous clinics nationwide, sharing his expertise in wrestling techniques and officiating, and authored several articles contributing to the sport’s development.

Siddens’ contributions were recognized through numerous honors. He was named the first Iowa Coach of the Year in 1970 and National High School Coach of the Year in 1977. His hall of fame inductions includes the Helms Hall of Fame (1969), the Iowa High School Wrestling Hall of Fame (1975), the National Federation Hall of Fame (1980), and the National Wrestling Hall of Fame as a Distinguished Member (1980).

In addition to his tenure at West Waterloo, Siddens served as the interim wrestling coach at Wartburg College for the 1990-91 season, leading the Knights to a 13-7 record and mentoring three All-Americans.

Siddens’ impact on wrestling extended beyond victories and titles; he was known for instilling values of humility, dignity, and perseverance in his athletes. His legacy is celebrated in the book “Siddens! Win with Humility, Lose with Dignity—But Don’t Lose!” which chronicles his coaching philosophy and career.

Bob Siddens passed away on September 27, 2018, at the age of 93, leaving behind an indelible mark on the wrestling community. His dedication to the sport and his athletes continues to inspire future generations, embodying the spirit of wrestling excellence in Iowa and beyond.

Bob Siddens was inducted into the Iowa Wrestling Hall of Fame in 1977 with Dan Gable.