Mark Bertsch retired from coaching the Newman Knights after the 2019 season, compiling a career coaching record of 395-228-6. His 40-year career started in 1979 coaching the junior high program until 1981 when he took on the responsibilities as the assistant high school coach for two years from 1982-84. In 1985 Mark took over the head coaching responsibilities until his retirement in 2019. Mark's 34-year run as the head coach produced 8 state champions, 14 finalists, and 80 qualifiers. Mark was awarded District Coach of the Year and honors in 1992, 1996, 1998, 2008, and 2011. He served as Secretary, , Vice-President and President of the IWCOA from 2001-2004. He was awarded the Presidents Award from the IWCOA for his contribution to Iowa Wrestling in 2010 and was inducted into the Iowa High School Athletic Association Hall of Fame in 2019. Mark has been a member of the Iowa Wrestling Coaches and Officials Association as well as being named Iowa Conference coach of the year in 2019. He was caoch of the North/ South All Star meet 2019. He chaired the Dual team rankings Committee 1994-95 and in 2003 was instrumental in getting 7th and 8th place winners on the stand at the State Tournament. Mark received the Jerry R. Wetzel Service Award 2015 for his service to girls' softball and was also named Assistant Coach of the Year in football in 2007. Mark attended Arizona Western Jr. College and then went on to Lora College where he was a team captain and a 2X National Qualifier. Mark was known for his professional demeanor with officials, staff, and especially his student athletes. He continually instructed his student athletes regardless of the result of the match. His teaching of Life lessons continues every time a Newman Knight athlete becomes an employer, husband and father. He never forgot that he was a teacher first, instilling in each kid the a value of hard work, discipline and teamwork as they pertain to life after wrestling. Mark also appreciated the work ethic of his opponents. He was never shy about applauding a deserving individual, even if it cost him a team win or one of his wrestlers a victory. Mark and his wife Debra have two children- Carrie and Matthew.