Mark Reiland

2016 Iowa Wrestling Hall of Fame Inductee

March 25, 1969 – December 8, 2021

Winning wrestling traditions passed through generations is a familiar story in Iowa—but few have lived it as completely as Mark Reiland. A native of Eagle Grove, Reiland carved out a legacy that stretches from high school dominance to collegiate glory and an exceptional coaching career, earning him a place among the sport’s most respected figures.

Reiland’s journey began under the guidance of his father, Marv Reiland—a respected coach and 2012 Iowa Wrestling Hall of Fame inductee. Wrestling for Eagle Grove High School, Mark developed rapidly into a force on the mat. After finishing fifth at the state tournament as a freshman and second as a sophomore, he captured back-to-back state titles at 145 and 155 pounds in his junior and senior years. He compiled a remarkable 69-1 record over those final two seasons, setting the stage for a standout collegiate career.

At the University of Iowa, Reiland became part of one of the most storied wrestling programs in the country. He earned NCAA All-America honors in 1989 and captured the 167-pound national title in 1991. Reiland was also a key contributor to the Hawkeyes’ NCAA team championships in 1991 and 1992. Surrounded by legendary coaches and teammates, Reiland took full advantage of the environment. “Every day in the Iowa room was a learning experience,” he recalled. “Each day I could take something and add it to my wrestling technique or my training.”

Following graduation, Reiland transitioned into coaching, first at Solon High School and then at Iowa City West, where he built one of the premier high school wrestling programs in the state. Over 17 seasons at West, Reiland led his teams to seven state championships—two traditional and five state dual titles—while also finishing as state runners-up in both formats eight more times. His coaching tenure produced 84 individual state place winners, including 26 state champions and 13 runners-up.

Beyond the mat, Reiland remained a devoted servant to the sport. He served on the board of USA Wrestling and was the organization’s first vice president. His contributions earned him several honors, including induction into the Glen Brand Wrestling Hall of Fame in 2010, the Iowa Wrestling Hall of Fame in 2016, and the National Wrestling Hall of Fame’s Lifetime Service to Wrestling Award in 2020.

Mark Reiland passed away on December 8, 2021, leaving behind a powerful legacy of excellence, leadership, and dedication. The lessons he learned from his father, coaches, and teammates—and the many he passed on to others—continue to serve the wrestling community and uphold its proud traditions.

Mark Reiland was inducted into the Iowa Wrestling Hall of Fame in 2016 alongside Jim Duschen, Tim Johnson, and Rick Caldwell.