David Harty

December 29, 1934 – October 8, 2010

David Harty’s legacy in amateur wrestling is defined by his remarkable impact across every dimension of the sport—as a standout competitor, respected coach, accomplished official, and visionary administrator.

A native of Iowa Falls, Harty graduated from Iowa Falls High School in 1953, earning four varsity letters in wrestling. As a senior, he placed third at the Iowa state wrestling tournament, then a prestigious single-class event, which meant he competed against the very best regardless of school size—making his podium finish especially notable.

Harty continued his wrestling career at Iowa State University, competing under the legendary coach Dr. Harold Nichols. At ISU, he earned two varsity letters, finishing as a runner-up in the Big Seven Conference, and completed his degree in Physical Education and Science, which set the stage for his lifelong dedication to teaching and athletics.

His coaching career began at Postville High School, and he then moved to Eagle Grove High School, where over a combined 13-year span, he built some of Iowa’s strongest wrestling programs. His teams compiled an impressive 120–38–2 dual meet record, consistently contending at the highest levels. Under his leadership, his teams finished in the top 10 at the state tournament in 12 of those 13 seasons, while he also coached numerous individual state champions and place winners.

Beyond the mat, Harty contributed to wrestling as a dedicated official for 21 years, refereeing college duals and working national tournaments—helping uphold the sport’s integrity and fairness. His expertise also led him into broadcasting, serving as a color analyst for Iowa Public Television’s college wrestling coverage for a decade, where he helped introduce countless viewers across Iowa to the finer points of the sport and contributed to its explosion in popularity.

In 1970, Harty took on a pivotal role as Assistant Executive Director of the Iowa High School Athletic Association (IHSAA). For the next 35 years, he oversaw Iowa’s high school wrestling program, elevating it to national prominence. He was instrumental in developing the Iowa State Wrestling Tournament into one of the largest and most respected prep wrestling events in the country, setting new standards for attendance, media coverage, and organizational excellence.

In 1987, Harty further expanded Iowa wrestling by establishing the State Dual Team Tournament, creating a dynamic team championship that complemented the traditional individual tournament and showcased the depth of Iowa’s wrestling programs. His vision, administrative skill, and passion for wrestling profoundly shaped how the sport is structured and celebrated in Iowa today. 

David was inducted into the Iowa Wrestling Hall of Fame in 1991 with Bob Darrah.

High School

CoachCecil Mott

• 1953 Class A State 3rd Place
• Four-Time High School Letterwinner

College

CoachDr. Harold Nichols

• Two-time ISU Letterwinner
• Big Seven Conference Runner-up

Coaching

Record120-38-2

Postville High School – Head Coach (1957-1959)

Eagle Grove High School – Head Coach (1959-1970)

• Coached Several State Champions
• Coached Several State Winners
• 12 of 13 Seasons Finishing Top 10 at State