Derek St. John, a Parnell, Iowa native, has built an exceptional legacy in the sport of wrestling as both a fierce competitor and an accomplished coach.

A four-time All-American for the University of Iowa, St. John captured the 2013 NCAA championship at 157 pounds, becoming the 17th wrestler in program history to earn All-America honors four times. A two-time Big Ten champion and four-time finalist, he capped his storied collegiate career by receiving the Mike Howard Most Valuable Wrestler Award.

Following his competitive success, St. John transitioned seamlessly into coaching, bringing his relentless work ethic and deep technical knowledge to programs across the country.

Now entering his ninth season as an assistant coach at Iowa State University, he has played a pivotal role in the Cyclones’ resurgence under head coach Kevin Dresser. Since 2017, Iowa State has claimed the 2024 Big 12 team title, produced 11 Big 12 individual champions, and earned 14 NCAA All-Americans, highlighted by St. John’s instrumental work in developing David Carr into a two-time national champion and four-time conference champion. His coaching career also includes impactful tenures at Virginia Tech and North Dakota State.