Dave Natvig

1975 Iowa Wrestling Hall of Fame Inductee

May 28, 1916 – November 27, 2001

Dave Natvig, a distinguished figure in Iowa wrestling, began his remarkable journey in New Hampton, Iowa. Under the mentorship of coaches Bill Waters and Finn Eriksen, Natvig developed his wrestling prowess, achieving an undefeated record during his junior and senior years. His high school career was highlighted by securing the 85-pound state championship in 1932 and the 95-pound state championship in 1933.

Continuing his athletic and academic pursuits, Natvig attended Iowa State Teachers College (now the University of Northern Iowa) in Cedar Falls. Coached by the esteemed Dave McCuskey, Natvig demonstrated exceptional skill on the mat, losing only one dual meet over his four-year collegiate career. His dedication and talent earned him All-American honors twice: he was the NCAA runner-up at 118 pounds in 1937 and secured third place in the same weight class in 1938.

After earning his bachelor’s degree, Natvig transitioned into coaching, beginning at Gilmore City High School from 1938 to 1941. However, it was his tenure at East Waterloo High School from 1946 to 1970 that solidified his legacy. During these 24 years, Natvig’s coaching record was outstanding, with 228 dual meet victories, 48 losses, and 12 ties. He mentored 40 individual state champions, including his son, Steve Natvig, who clinched a state title in 1969. Under his leadership, the Trojans secured seven state team championships and were runners-up three times, establishing East Waterloo as a powerhouse in Iowa high school wrestling.

Natvig’s influence extended beyond coaching; he also contributed to the sport as a wrestling official at both the high school and collegiate levels, further demonstrating his commitment to wrestling. Throughout his career, Natvig was known for his strategic acumen and ability to develop talent, fostering numerous athletes who achieved success at state and national levels. His rivalry with West Waterloo head coach Bob Siddens, a fellow Hall of Fame inductee, was particularly notable, as their teams frequently competed for supremacy in Iowa high school wrestling.

After retiring from coaching in 1970 and from teaching in 1979, Natvig’s contributions to wrestling were formally recognized through multiple honors. In 1975, he was inducted into the Iowa Wrestling Hall of Fame, acknowledging his significant impact on the sport within the state. In 2010, Natvig’s legacy was further commemorated with his induction into the Battle of Waterloo Hall of Fame, celebrating his enduring influence on wrestling in the Waterloo community and beyond.

Dave Natvig’s life and career are emblematic of dedication, excellence, and a profound commitment to the sport of wrestling in Iowa. His legacy continues to inspire wrestlers and coaches, reflecting the high standards he set both on and off the mat.

Dave Natvig was inducted into the Cresco Wrestling Hall of Fame in 1975 with William Koll.