LeRoy Alitz

1992 Iowa Wrestling Hall of Fame Inductee

December 8, 1919 – April 15, 2006

A native of Mason City, Iowa, LeRoy graduated from Mason City High School in 1937, where he wrestled under renowned coach Howard Barker, competing as Barker’s standout 85-pounder. Alitz then continued his education and athletic pursuits at Mason City Junior College from 1937 to 1939, followed by a year at Iowa State University from 1939 to 1940, where his academic and athletic progress was interrupted by the onset of World War II.

Answering the call to service, Alitz served honorably in the United States Navy, completing his active duty in 1946. Upon returning home, he pursued his academic and athletic goals by enrolling at Iowa State Teachers College (now the University of Northern Iowa), where he earned his degree in education in 1948 and competed under respected coach Dave McCuskey, helping fortify the Panthers’ wrestling tradition. Never content to stop learning, he furthered his education at the University of Iowa during the summers of 1951, 1952, and 1957, ultimately earning a master’s degree in 1957.

Alitz began building his coaching legacy at Osage High School in 1948, where he established a consistently strong program. His teams regularly excelled in dual meets and tournaments, laying the foundation for what would become one of Iowa’s most enduring high school wrestling traditions.

In 1954, Alitz’s coaching career took a prestigious turn when he was named head wrestling coach at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, a role he held with distinction for 24 years. Under his leadership, Army’s wrestling program became nationally competitive and was recognized for producing disciplined, technically sound wrestlers. From 1978 to 1987, he continued to guide the program as associate coach, ensuring a seamless transition and sustained excellence.

Alitz’s influence extended well beyond collegiate wrestling. He was actively involved in international wrestling development, serving as coach of CISM (International Military Sports Council) Wrestling teams that competed in Iran and Egypt, and leading the U.S. freestyle team at the 1973 World University Games in Moscow. His expertise and diplomacy were critical in strengthening international wrestling ties during a complex geopolitical era.

An influential voice in shaping American wrestling governance, Alitz served on the U.S. Olympic Wrestling Committee from 1969 to 1973. He was a member of the National Wrestling Coaches and Officials Association beginning in 1948, ultimately serving as president of the organization in 1968. Further underscoring his impact on the sport’s structure and integrity, he chaired the NCAA Wrestling Rules Committee from 1971 to 1977, helping guide key rule changes and improvements that affected collegiate wrestling nationwide.

LeRoy was inducted into the Iowa Wrestling Hall of Fame in 1992 with William “Bill” Dotson.

Additional Honors & Achievements

Administrative:

Design Consultant within the Department of Physical Education for combative skills at West Point
Promotion of and Public Relation for the Academy
Evaluation of Officials at NCAA Tournament 1980-81-88

Honors: