Born in Washington, DC, David Hooper grew up in Arlington, VA, where he wrestled for eminent coach Vic Blue at Wakefield High School. His outstanding high school performance for the Warriors culminated in a state championship at 98 pounds in 1966. From there, he attended Lycoming College (PA), wrestling for that program for four years. His graduation marked the beginning of a fulfilling 30-year career as a history teacher and wrestling coach for independent schools in Northern Virginia: Bishop Ireton High School, the Gilman School (coaching Billy Marshall to a National Prep tournament title), and finally, a 24-year tenure at Saint Stephen's and Saint Agnes High School. His Saints teams won three Virginia Independent School state championships with numerous state place-winners, and an Interstate Athletic Conference title in 2004. He also coached two outstanding individuals, John Freeman and Khalil Abdul-Malik, to National Prep tournament championships. The Saint Stephen's Tournament that he organized and promoted was for many years a "go-to" event for both public and private schools in the region. His overall record as a high-school coach was 231 wins, 131 losses. After his untimely death from cancer in 2007, Coach Hooper was remembered as the consummate teacher/coach role model. At his memorial service, many of his former athletes spoke of his impact on their lives and careers. Fellow coaches and officials praised his love for, and devotion to, the sport of wrestling, his knowledge of the rules, and his interactions with his wrestlers and their families. This celebration of his life was a testament to the admiration and affection of Saint Stephen's and Saint Agnes and the Northern Virginia wrestling community for David Hooper.