The Dickey Family will receive the Bowlsby Family Legacy Award in recognition of their lasting impact on wrestling in Waterloo and across northeast Iowa.

Marty Dickey began wrestling in 1963 at Edison School and later became a state champion at West High School in 1966 before competing at Iowa State University and serving in the United States Army while stationed in Germany.

In 1983, Marty co-founded the Junior Wahawk Wrestling Club with Don Huff to create more opportunities for youth wrestlers and introduce freestyle techniques. With a focus on mental and physical preparation, the program grew to more than 100 participants each season and helped develop many athletes who went on to become state champions, state place-winners, and college wrestlers. Marty volunteered with the program until 1994.

Wrestling success continued in the family. Matthew Dickey qualified for the state tournament four times at West High School, winning two state titles and finishing as a fifth-ranked ASICS Tiger All-American with a 114–12 career record. He went on to compete at the University of Iowa, served on the All-Army wrestling team, competed internationally and placed eighth at the Olympic Trials. Dan Dickey was a two-time state finalist, and Jay Dickey finished third at the state tournament.

The Dickey Family’s achievements and commitment to giving back to wrestling reflect the values honored by the Bowlsby Family Legacy Award.