MANHEIM, Pa. - Coe College wrestling head coach John Oostendorp was announced as a member of the 2025 National Wrestling Coaches Association DIII Hall of Fame last week. Originally from Nichols, Iowa, Oostendorp made a name for himself early as an all-state linebacker in football and West Liberty High School's first wrestling state champion. During his senior season, he dominated the competition, pinning all but one opponent on his way to the title. Known as "Coach O" since taking over at Coe in 2001, he continued his athletic career at Iowa, excelling in both wrestling and football. As a four-year starter at heavyweight, he secured two all-American finishes, a Big Ten title, and compiled an impressive career record of 108-26 with 40 pins. After graduating, Oostendorp pursued wrestling at the highest level, competing in the 1995 World Championships and claiming the 1996 Greco-Roman national championship. He also served as an alternate for the 1996 Olympics and the 1997 World Championships. As head coach at Coe, Oostendorp has earned three conference coach of the year awards and was recognized as the NWCA National Coach of the Year in 2009. His teams have earned multiple top-10 finishes at the NCAA Championships. A former All-American himself, Oostendorp has dedicated his career to developing student-athletes both on and off the mat. Coach O and the remaining honorees will be inducted at the Honors Banquet on Friday, August 1, at the Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL.

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