Building a Legacy: Alli St. John Leads Iowa State Women's Wrestling to New Heights
Iowa State University has appointed Alli St. John (Ragan), a two-time World Wrestling Championships silver medalist, as the inaugural head coach of the women's wrestling program. The Cyclones are set to start competing in the sport in the 2027-28 academic year, with St. John already working on building the team for their debut season. St. John's impressive wrestling background and experience make her a fitting choice to lead the program and uphold Iowa State's wrestling legacy.
St. John's wrestling career includes representing the U.S. at various international competitions and winning silver medals at the World Wrestling Championships in 2016 and 2017. Her success on the mat, coupled with her ability to engage with donors and the wrestling community, positions her well to develop a championship program at Iowa State. Her appointment as the head coach marks a significant moment for both the university and the sport of wrestling, as she aims to create a program that produces top-tier athletes.
With a background as a two-time Women's College national champion during her undergraduate years, St. John brings a wealth of experience to her coaching role. Her previous coaching stints at the Big Game Wrestling Club and Grand View College have further honed her skills in preparing athletes for success. St. John's dedication to the sport and her strong ties to the wrestling community make her a valuable asset in leading the Iowa State women's wrestling program to new heights.
Director of Wrestling Kevin Dresser commended St. John's work ethic and credentials, emphasizing her ability to build a team from scratch and connect with the Cyclone fan base. As the first women's wrestler inducted into the Glen Brand National Wrestling Hall of Fame and a member of the Illinois Wrestling Coaches and Officials Hall of Fame, St. John's accolades speak to her commitment to the sport. Her passion for wrestling and her vision for the program's future bode well for the success of the Iowa State women's wrestling team.
In conclusion, Alli St. John's appointment as the head coach of the Iowa State women's wrestling program marks a significant milestone in the university's athletic history. With her impressive wrestling background, coaching experience, and dedication to the sport, St. John is poised to lead the Cyclones to success on the mat and establish a legacy of excellence in women's wrestling at Iowa State University.