A true athlete in every sense of the word, Stephen Neal came to wrestling as a freshman at San Diego High School, competing in many other sports, including football. His early career culminated in a fourth place finish at the formidable California State Wrestling Tournament.
Attending Cal State University, Bakersfield, Neal would establish himself and develop as a heavyweight dynamo, storming the 1998 NCAA tournament with a 20-5 technical fall. Unstoppable, he would further cement his collegiate legacy as he seized a second NCAA title. Neal continued his stride into his international career with gold medal victories at the subsequent U.S. Open, Pan American Games, and World Championships.
A titan among men, Stephen Neal received the FILA outstanding wrestler award in 1999, bestowed upon the best wrestler in the world. After hanging up his wrestling shoes, Neal returned to his football roots as he played under legendary Coach Bill Belichick during a dominant New England Patriot era. During his tenure on the Patriot offensive line, Neal collected 3 Super Bowl Rings. Stephen Neal’s impressive legacy exhibits his love for sport and an unrivaled WAY OF LIFE.
