Keith Young

1979 Iowa Wrestling Hall of Fame Inductee

September 24, 1929 – July 29, 2012

Keith Young, born on September 29, 1929, in Algona, Iowa, is celebrated as one of the most influential figures in American wrestling history. His remarkable journey from a novice wrestler to a distinguished athlete and revered coach has left a permanent mark on the sport.

Young’s exposure to wrestling began during his senior year at Algona High School, as the institution introduced the sport late in his academic tenure. Despite this limited experience, his innate talent and determination were evident, setting the stage for a prolific wrestling career.

In 1947, Young enrolled at Iowa State Teachers College (now the University of Northern Iowa) in Cedar Falls. Competing in the 145-pound weight class, he achieved an impeccable collegiate record, remaining undefeated throughout his tenure. Young secured NCAA championships consecutively in 1949, 1950, and 1951, playing a pivotal role in leading the Panthers to the NCAA team title in 1950. Simultaneously, he clinched National AAU championships in the same years, earning the Outstanding Wrestler accolade in 1950.

After concluding his competitive wrestling career, Young transitioned into coaching. In 1952, he began at Blue Earth High School in Minnesota, where he demonstrated exceptional leadership by guiding the team to a state championship in 1953. Following a subsequent year coaching at Osage High School in Iowa, Young accepted the head coaching position at Cedar Falls High School in 1955, a role he would honorably serve until his retirement in 1984.

During his 27-year tenure at Cedar Falls, Young’s leadership yielded a dual meet record of 193-99-6. Under his guidance, the school secured its first-ever state team championship in 1968, followed by another in 1976. His coaching prowess also produced 18 individual state champions and six conference team titles, underscoring his significant impact on high school wrestling in Iowa.

Beyond coaching, Young contributed to the wrestling community as a respected official, presiding over high school and collegiate matches, including multiple NCAA Division I and II championships. His expertise was further shared through his role as a clinician at various wrestling camps nationwide, fostering the development of the sport at multiple levels.

Young’s illustrious career garnered numerous accolades. He was inducted into the Helms (Citizen’s Savings) Hall of Fame in 1964, the Iowa High School Wrestling Hall of Fame in 1978, and the U.S. Wrestling Federation Hall of Fame in 1979. In 1985, he was honored by his alma mater with induction into the University of Northern Iowa Athletics Hall of Fame.

Keith Young passed away on July 29, 2012, in Cedar Falls, Iowa, at the age of 81. His legacy endures through the countless athletes he mentored and the indelible mark he left on the wrestling community. His life and career remain a testament to dedication, excellence, and the profound impact of mentorship in sports.

Keith Young was inducted into the Iowa Wrestling Hall of Fame in 1979 along with Lowell Lange.

Additional Honors & Achievements

1964 Helms (Citizen Savings) Hall of Fame
1978 Iowa High School Hall of Fame
1979 National Wrestling Hall of Fame Distinguished Member (U.S. National Federation Wrestling Hall of Fame)
2003 Glen Brand National Wrestling Hall of Fame