Tom Elling wrestled at Lock Haven State Teachers College and his coaches were Hubert 'Hub' Jack and Gray Simons while his high school coach was Les Turner.

After graduation, Elling became the head coach at Lock Haven High School starting a 35-year relationship with wrestling.

One of his best friends, Bill Welker, said that Elling's "contributions and love for Pennsylvania wrestling are nonpareil."

Elling worked as a Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association official and provided color commentary at meets.

He also initiated the first PA Wrestling website and acted as tournament director of operations at the PIAA State Championships.

He also created the Pennsylvania Legends of Wrestling sports cards and the PA Wrestling handbook.

Elling founded the Pennsylvania Wrestling newspaper and has been the Pennsylvania editor for Wrestling USA magazine since 1974. He is also editor of Tom's Wrestling Page on Facebook.

Tom and his wife, Barb continue to live in Lock Haven.