Ron Larsen
Class of 2002
Joliet
Ron Larsen attended Danville High School and wrestled from 1948 to 1950 for Hall of Fame member Lester Bandy. He was a three time state qualifier and named most valuable his senior year.
Ron enlisted in the Air Force during the Korean War and was able to continue wrestling at various AAU tournaments. After his military commitment, he enrolled at Illinois State University and lettered in wrestling for three years. In 1957, he was Co-captain and an Interstate-Intercollegiate Champion at 147 pounds.
His coaching career began at Normal University High School in 1956 while he was still in college. After graduation, Ron moved to New Lenox as the Head Wrestling Coach at Lincoln-Way High School. During this time, Ron began the grade school program. He coached at Lincoln-Way until 1962 when he went to Bloom Township High School. In 1967, Ron moved to Joliet to become the Head Coach at Joliet East. From 1977 through 1981, he served as Athletic Director at Joliet East. In 1984, he moved back as the Head Wrestling Coach at Joliet West. He retired from coaching after the 1987-88 season, and in 1989, he retired from teaching. During his coaching career Ron had over 250 victories.
Ron currently operates the Riverbend Golf Course in Ft. Wayne, IN.