Don York‘s coaching experience spans 30 years. Prior to his 29 years as head coach at Cleveland high school, he coached the 1955-56 season at Lincoln high school. During his career, he produced 4 individual state champions, five state runner ups, a total of 13 State Placers and 36 individual district champions. One of his athletes, Rich Henjyoji made the first Oregon cultural exchange team to wrestle in Japan in 1963. Another wrestler, Bob Laycoe, won the Canadian national title in 1970.

For his dedication and lasting influence on Wrestling, Don York is presented the National Wrestling Hall of Fame “Lifetime Service to Wrestling” award for the class of 2009.