Class of 2000

Rory Weber,

Proviso East/Northwestern

A 1958 graduate of Proviso East High School, Rory Weber wrestled under Hall of Famer Jack Marino He place second in the State Tournament in his senior year at Heavyweight He arrived at Northwestern as one of Hall of Famer Ken Kraft's early recuits. At that time freshman were not allowed to compete in the NCAA. However, Rory won the Central AAU Tournament in 1959. During that era, this was a very prestigious accomplishment He won the Big 10 Conference Title his sophomore season and lost in the semi-finals of the NCAA Tournament to the eventual champion, finished 4th and earned All-American status. Northwestern placed ninth as a team that season. His junior year he once again won the Big 10 Conference crown, placed third in the NCAA and was an All-American. Rory broke his hand during his senior year and was forced to sit out seven weeks. He was only able to compete in one meet prior to the Big 10 Tournament. He placed third in the Big 10, Fourth in NCAA, and finished with All-American honors for the third straight year. During that period, only the top four finishers earned All-American honors.
Upon graduation, Rory was selected for a position as a graduate assistant at the

University of Arizona and served two years as the assistant coach at AU. He came back to the Chicago area and coached wrestling and soccer for many years at Niles North High School.
Mr. Weber is now deceased.