The National Wrestling Hall of Fame Dan Gable Museum created a new award in 2015. The Bob Steenlage Iowa High School Outstanding Wrestler of the Year Award will be given each year to the top high school wrestler within the state of Iowa. The award was presented this year to Carter Happel, of Lisbon during the Glen Brand Wrestling Hall of Fame of Iowa inductions on Saturday, June 11, in Waterloo. The award is named after Bob Steenlage, Iowa’s first four-time state wrestling champion. Steenlage competed for Britt High School, winning state titles in 1959 (95 pounds), 1960 (103 pounds), 1961 (112 pounds) and 1962 (120 pounds). Steenlage went on to wrestle at West Point Military Academy where he went four years without losing a dual meet. He was also a third place finisher at the 1966 NCAA tournament at 123 pounds and a Division I NCAA All-American.
Steenlage is a graduate of the U.S. Military Academy (West Point) and the Airborne and Ranger schools. He was a platoon leader and company commander in the Vietnam War. Steenlage was awarded the Bronze Star medal for his service in Vietnam. He is a nationally known inspirational speaker and businessman. His biography, "Fighting Back," is in the sixth printing. For more details, visit Steenlage's website www.bobsteenlage.com. “It is very humbling to have this award given in my name,” said Steenlage in a news release. “Wrestling has had such a huge positive impact on my life, and the thought of being part of awarding excellence greatly touches my heart. Wrestling taught me that taking charge of our thoughts determines our success on and off the mat.” A special selection committee at the National Wrestling Hall of Fame Dan Gable Museum will choose the winner of the award. It will be given to the best high school wrestler in the state of Iowa for that particular year. The winner can come from any class (1A, 2A, or 3A), any weight or any year of eligibility. Read More