Robert Craig

Coach Craig and Cedar Cliff have become synonymous. Craig founded the Colts' wrestling program in 1959 and remained as their head coach until his retirement following the 1997-98 season. During that time, Craig's teams won an unprecedented 513 matches, had five undefeated squads and had only one losing season, which came in the first year. During his tenure, the Colts had 4 PIAA champions, 6 silver medalists, 3 third place finishers, 11 fourths, 2 fifths and 1 sixth. Craig also coached 35 district champions and 5 regional titlists. His teams captured 22 league titles, 2 district team tournament titles, and 1 district championship and had 8 top-10finishes at states. Prior to going to Cedar Cliff, Craig spent two years at Newport High School where he also started the wrestling program. He had one wrestler go on to win a NCAA Division I championship and his program also produced 5 Division I and 4 Division Ill All-Americans. Craig wrestled for 3 years at Lock Haven, earning the Outstanding Wrestler Award after winning the PSAC conference title at 177 pounds in 1953. He also won the 41 Championship that year, and advanced to the quarterfinals at the NCAA Championships. From 1953 to 1955 he went undefeated while wrestling for Cherry point Marines. In 1955 he qualified for the Pan American finals and was named the alternate for the Pan­ Am Games. In 1956, Craig lost to Dan Hodge in a split decision after a 15-minute bout in the tryouts for the Olympic Team in Los Angeles. A true friend of wrestling, Craig continues to attend many area wrestling events. For his dedication and lasting influence on wrestling. Craig is presented with the National Wrestling Hall of fame "Lifetime Service to Wrestling" award for the class of 1999.

Awards:

Year
1999
Award
Lifetime Service to Wrestling
Chapter/Region
Pennsylvania

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