Ronald Nelson wrestled at Northwestern University (Class of 1954) and was behind the Big Ten Champion until injury ended his career as a wrestler. He coached wrestling at the Academy of the New Church 1958-1980, when he was recalled to active duty with the USMC. He then returned to coach from 1982-1993. He has been involved in wrestling for over 66 years. Ronald started and ran the Philadelphia Area Independent School Wrestling Tournament, which morphed into the Pennsylvania State Independent Tournament. He served for many years at that event at the head table. Ron's coaching record was 312-78, over 30 years, never suffering a losing season. He coached NCAA Champion Kirk Pendelton; Eastern Champion, John Gladish; Eyvind Boysen, Lehigh; Greg Smith, Eastern Champion USMA; and Big Ten Champ from Wisconsin Paul Mergan. Ron also coached 18 Lehigh National Prep Champions, 49 All-Americans and 28 Independent School State Champions. Since 1994, the Ronald K. Nelson State Wrestling Tournament Trophy is given annually to the wrestler earning the most team points over his tournament career. Mr. Nelson served as a USMC Presidential Helicopter Pilot during the Eisenhower Administration. He retired from the Marine Corps Reserve as a Major General with 36 years of service, including all levels of USMC aviation. He is truly a great American.