Oregon State Names Zalesky as Wrestling Coach

Jim Zalesky Photo Courtesy: NCAA

CORVALLIS – AP - Oregon State said Friday it has named former Iowa coach Jim Zalesky its new wrestling coach.

Zalesky compiled a 127-34 dual meet record at Iowa, serving as head coach from the 1997-98 season through the 2005-06 season.

His teams won NCAA titles in 1998, 1999 and 2000. The Hawkeyes finished second in 2001 and 2004.

But his contract was not renewed this year after Iowa had its worst wrestling season in 39 years.

Oregon State director of athletics Bob De Carolis said the Beavers were happy to have Zalesky.

"We're adding a coach to our staff who has won three national championships," De Carolis said. "He brings a championship work ethic and a championship legacy with him to Oregon State."

Zalesky's teams captured three Big Ten team titles and his wrestlers won 10 NCAA individual titles and 45 All-American honors.

Oregon State ranks third in all-time dual meet victories with an 895-286-26 mark dating back to 1909. The Beavers have won 44 team conference championships and 200 individual conference titles, placed in the top 10 at the NCAA Championships 18 times.

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