University of Northern Iowa Wrestling 1975 Championship Team

In 1975, the Panthers won their first Division II Championship. Under Head Coach Chuck Patten the Panthers put five wrestlers into the finals. Three national champions were crowned, while two claimed runner-up positions. Randy Omvig (left), Jim Miller (center), and Ken Snyder (right) all won individual titles at heavyweight, 134 pounds, and 142 pounds, respectively.

It was the second title in a row for both Miller and Snyder. Dave Cunningham claimed second in the 118 pound class, while teammate Dick Erickson did the same at 177 pounds.

Miller, Snyder, and Cunningham all received injuries during the championships. Although it was a brutal competition, Coach Patten was very pleased with the efforts of his team. "I think the greatest thing about these guys is that they showed people they are champions in other things than just wrestling."

Compiled by Jonathan Russell; edited by Susan A. Basye
Special Collections and University Archives
May 1997