Dr. Harold Nichols

1970 Iowa Wrestling Hall of Fame Inductee

March 22, 1917 – February 22, 1997

Dr. Harold Nichols, a transformative figure in American wrestling, is remembered as one of the sport’s most influential coaches, particularly for his years at Iowa State University. A native of Cresco, Iowa, Nichols’ wrestling journey began in high school, where his outstanding performance quickly set him apart and earned him a place on the University of Michigan wrestling team. His collegiate success was marked by a Big Ten and an NCAA championship title at 145 pounds in 1939, showcasing his technical prowess and fierce determination on the mat.

After his graduation, Nichols joined the United States Air Force and served as a pilot during World War II, a role that instilled in him a commitment to discipline and leadership—traits that would later shape his coaching philosophy. Upon returning from military service, Nichols continued his academic pursuits, earning a master’s degree at the University of Illinois and a doctorate from his alma mater, Michigan. His coaching career began in 1949 at Arkansas State, where he not only coached wrestling but also track, demonstrating his versatility as a mentor.

In 1953, Nichols joined Iowa State University, embarking on a coaching career that would leave an indelible mark on the wrestling world. During his 32-year tenure at Iowa State, Dr. Nichols led his teams to six NCAA team championships, 38 individual national titles, and 91 All-American honors. His athletes consistently excelled, a testament to his rigorous training methods, strategic insights, and unwavering support for his wrestlers.

Beyond the wrestling mat, Nichols’ contributions to the sport were extensive. He served as a member and chairman of the NCAA Wrestling Rules Committee, helping shape the rules and structure of collegiate wrestling to ensure fair competition and the growth of the sport. His work on the Olympic Wrestling Committee furthered wrestling’s development on an international level, and he served as vice president for wrestling in the Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) and as president of the Iowa section of the AAU.

Throughout his career, Nichols earned an array of honors. He was named National Coach of the Year four times and was recognized as Wrestling Man of the Year in 1966. Dr. Nichols was inducted into the National Wrestling Hall of Fame, the Wrestling Coaches’ Hall of Fame, and the Iowa Wrestling Hall of Fame in 1970, cementing his legacy among the sport’s elite. Dr. Nichols’ influence extended far beyond accolades; he shaped wrestling into one of the fastest-growing participant and spectator sports in the United States and beyond. His dedication to the sport inspired countless athletes and coaches, fostering a culture of excellence that endures in wrestling today. Dr. Harold Nichols’ legacy is celebrated not only in his achievements but also in the countless lives he touched and the enduring growth of wrestling in America.

Dr. Harold Nichols was inducted into the Iowa Wrestling Hall of Fame in 1970 along with Bob Hess, George “ Chris” Flanagan, Maynard “Spade” Harman, and George Martin.