Shawn Kelly Sr. is a prominent figure in the Cedar Valley wrestling community and president of Black Hawk Roof Company in Cedar Falls.

A former wrestler at the University of Northern Iowa, Kelly has been instrumental in fostering the sport in the region.

In 2009, the Kelly family transformed a building they owned in Cedar Falls from a weightlifting gym into a dedicated wrestling facility while also establishing the USA Mat Club.

Shawn firmly believes in accessibility, emphasizing that financial constraints should not bar young talent from training, noting that "We still let them train and be a part of our team. It is not a money issue for us.”

Kelly's commitment to the sport has had a huge impact on the UNI wrestling program.

In 2023 when UNI shut the doors of the historic West Gym, Kelly graciously offered the USA Mat Club facilities as a home for the Panthers until a new training facility is built. This gesture is another testament to his dedication to supporting our great sport at every level in Iowa.

UNI head wrestling coach Doug Schwab said, “I am so grateful for Shawn Kelly and the entire Kelly family. They have been in support of our program from day one. And they did not sit back when the West Gym was closed, they volunteered to be a part of the solution. Our staff, team, alumni, and fans will be forever grateful.”