Wrestling coaches reach milestone

Luther College Wrestling Head Coach Dave Mitchell and Assistant Coach Jeff O’Gara have led the team to a 13-5 record this season, and are currently ranked 10th in NCAA Division III. Mitchell and O’Gara have been coaching together for the last 16 years, and in January won their 200th dual meet at the Iowa Conference Duals meet.

“Before Coaches Mitchell and O’Gara came to Luther the program wasn’t stellar. As soon as they came it became a top 10 program in the country,” Billy Baringer (‘12) said. “It’s pretty significant for a team to be at this level for as long as it has.”

Mitchell has also gained national recognition by being inducted into the National Wrestling Coaches Association Hall of Fame, a process which requires a nomination from a current member.

“It was humbling and very special to be able to share that with our staff, our team and my family,” Mitchell said of his induction.

He was surprised by his nomination, but his achievements speak for themselves. Mitchell has coached 45 All-Americans, eight national champions, four national runner-ups, 33 scholar All-Americans, two NCAA Post-graduate Scholars and four CoSIDA Scholar All-Americans. In addition, he has led the Norse to six top five finishes at the National Championships during his time at Luther.

Mitchell became enamored with the sport of wrestling at three years old when his older brother won Riceville, Iowa’s first state wrestling title. He wrestled throughout high school, and went to UW-La Crosse where he was coached by Luther’s own Greg Lonning.

“He was an outstanding coach, and, in my opinion, is one of the best wrestling coaches in the country,” Mitchell said of being coached by Lonning.

Lonning certainly helped Mitchell succeed-helping him earn All-American honors and place third at the championship meet as a senior. Mitchell knew at this time that he wanted to coach and began as a volunteer youth coach in Ames at a Boys and Girls Club, eventually working his way to coaching at Luther College.

“I truly have a passion for coaching,” Mitchell said.

This passion is certainly not lost on his wrestlers.

“Coach Mitchell is a very engaged person in whatever he is doing,” Kyle Windquist (‘13) said. “He cares for each individual, and has a system that he believes in. He is all about being positive and keeping everyone motivated. He is the perfect example of what I would call a great leader.”

The season is not over yet, and both Mitchell and the wrestlers are expecting great things.

“We have high goals,” Mitchell said. I feel like this team can challenge some of the top teams in the country the in next few weeks. We are excited about the possibilities.”

IIAC Championships will take place February 24th at Coe College, and NCAA Division III Championships will be a few weeks later, March 9-10 in La Crosse.