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Steve Szabo

  • Began teaching and coaching career at Pontiac Central High School in 1957. 
  • Started the first wrestling program at Pontiac Central High School in 1957 and successfully petitioned the Pontiac board of education to begin wrestling programs in all 8 junior high schools in the early 70’s. 
  • Organized AAU wrestling teams and tournaments for kids 12 years and under.
  • Inducted into Pontiac Central High School Hall of Fame, the Michigan High School Wrestling Hall of Fame and later into the University of Michigan Half of Fame. 
  • Received “The Distinguished Service Award” from the Pontiac Board of Education and from the mayor of The City of Pontiac. 
  • MHSAA (Michigan High School Athletic Association district and regional coach of the year award 3 times.
  • Vice President of the Oakland County Wrestling Coaches Association for 3 years and President of the Oakland County Wrestling Association for 3 years.  
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  • Teams won:
  • 20 league championships
  • 18 Michigan High School Athletic Association District Championships
  • 22 Michigan High School Athletic Association Regional Championships. 
  • 5 state champions and 5 runner up in the state finals.
  • Collegiate experience: Member of the “Fighting Illini” wrestling and football teams.
  • 1957-1987- Physical education teacher.  Helped students develop the knowledge, fitness levels, motor skills and personal and social skills necessary to obtain a lifetime of good health and physical activity.
  • Managed classes of up to 40 students
  • Worked with students of all ethnicities and genders
  • Promoted sportsmanship and a love of physical education
  • 1957—1997- High school wrestling coach (40 years)


Awards:
Year
2021
 Award
Lifetime Service to Wrestling
 Chapter/Region
Michigan

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