Mike Natvig

1984 Iowa Wrestling Hall of Fame Inductee

A native of Decorah, Iowa, Mike Natvig made a name for himself in wrestling circles by becoming a two-time NCAA champion while attending the United States Military Academy at West Point. Natvig captured his national titles in 1962 and 1963, both at 148 pounds—the same weight class in which he competed for the Decorah Vikings. In high school, he finished as the state runner-up twice, in 1957 and again in 1958, narrowly missing a state title but establishing himself among Iowa’s premier prep wrestlers.

After attending the University of Iowa for one year, Natvig journeyed east and found a home at West Point. There, under the direction of Coach LeRoy Alitz—an Osage native and University of Northern Iowa graduate—he blossomed into one of the top collegiate wrestlers in the country. Natvig’s back-to-back NCAA championships made him one of the most decorated wrestlers in Army history. He was also a three-time EIWA (Eastern Intercollegiate Wrestling Association) champion, showcasing his dominance across multiple seasons.

Following graduation from West Point, Natvig served his country with distinction, rising to the rank of captain. Even during his military service, wrestling remained close to his heart; he competed in and won several military tournaments and continued to mentor younger wrestlers wherever he was stationed.

Since leaving the service, Natvig has made his home in Littleton, Colorado, working for the Wagner Equipment Company of Denver, a Caterpillar dealer. Beyond his professional career, he stayed closely tied to the wrestling community—coaching at local clubs, volunteering at high school tournaments, and serving as an ambassador for the sport.

Known for his quiet leadership and relentless style on the mat, Natvig’s contributions have left a lasting imprint on both Iowa and national wrestling circles.

Mike was inducted into the Iowa Wrestling Hall of Fame in 1984 with Les Anderson.