There are names in wrestling etched not only in record books but in the hearts of everyone they’ve touched. Dave Schultz is one of those names—a man whose legacy transcends the accolades of his illustrious career. As we mark the anniversary of his passing, we remember not the tragedy of his loss, but the enduring spirit of a man who gave so much of himself to his sport, his friends, family, and the world.
A Champion Beyond Titles
Dave Schultz’s wrestling resume is unparalleled: an NCAA champion, Olympic gold medalist, seven-time World and Olympic medalist, and a ten-time U.S. national champion. But to focus solely on his achievements overlooks the true greatness of Dave Schultz. He wasn’t just a champion on the mat—he was a champion of people.
Dave’s unique ability to make everyone feel important was the core of his character. Whether you were an Olympic-level competitor, a high school athlete, or simply a fan in the crowd, he treated you with genuine care and interest. It’s said that Dave had “ten thousand best friends,” a testament to his openness, warmth, and sincerity. He was more than a wrestler; he was a friend, a mentor, and a beacon of kindness in a competitive world.
The Technician and Teacher
Schultz’s wrestling brilliance lay not only in his success but in his mind. A true student of the sport, Dave had an extraordinary ability to break down technique. He believed wrestling was all about position—not just physical, but mental. He poured himself into perfecting every move and shared his knowledge with anyone willing to listen.
Athletes from all over the world sought his advice and absorbed his wisdom. Dave didn’t guard his techniques; he shared them, even with opponents. It wasn’t uncommon for wrestlers he had just beaten to ask him how he executed a move—and for Dave to gladly demonstrate it.
Dave traveled the world, learning new techniques, building friendships, and spreading the love of wrestling across cultures. He mastered multiple languages to connect with international athletes, breaking down barriers in the process.
Wrestling’s Greatest Friend
Dave Schultz was known as wrestling’s greatest diplomat. He embodied sportsmanship, humility, and respect—values that made him beloved not only by his teammates but by his competitors. His generosity and kindness were universally admired, even by those who faced him on the mat.
“Dave was wrestling,” said long-time friend Ed Giese. “He touched everybody, even if he just met the person or if he knew them for years. It’s universal.”
Former Olympic coach Bobby Douglas described him as “the renaissance of wrestling.” And perhaps no quote encapsulates Dave better than this: “Even the guys he beat liked him.”
A Legacy That Lives On
Dave Schultz left an indelible mark on the sport of wrestling, but more importantly, he left an everlasting impact on the lives of everyone he met. His story is one of generosity, humility, and an unrelenting passion for his craft.
As we honor his memory, we reflect on the lessons he taught us—not just about wrestling, but about life. Dave showed us how to lead with kindness, embrace curiosity, and give selflessly to the world around us. His spirit lives on in every wrestler who steps onto the mat, in every coach who shares their knowledge, and in every friendship forged through the love of the sport. Dave Schultz is more than a legend; he is a reminder of what it means to be human.
Today, we celebrate the incredible legacy of a man whose impact will forever ripple through the sport of wrestling and beyond.
Thank you, Dave, for teaching us that greatness isn’t measured only in victories, but in how we lift others along the way.
