Sam Markle began wrestling as a sophomore at Bellefonte High School for Coach Glenn Smith. He graduated in 1949, was team captain with a career 21-8-1 record. After 4 years in the Navy, he wrestled at Penn State for Charlie Speidel, another legendary coach. His team won the EIWA Championship in his senior year of 1957. Sam returned to Bellefonte as a teacher and assistant coach, and junior high coach. He was as Acting Head Coach for half of a season when Coach Flanagan resigned. Sam began officiating in the early 60's and did over 400 high school & over 100 college meets, including numerous District & Regional Tournaments over a 25 year career. He appeared in 7 PIAA Championships in 3 different venues: the PA Farm Show Building, Penn State's Rec Hall, and the Hersheypark Arena! Sam retired in 1993 with 36 years of teaching and as assistant principal. He remained active, chairing a committee to name the Bellefonte wrestling room after Glenn B. Smith, Bellefonte's first wrestling coach. Sam and Norma raised 3 children. One of his grandsons, Curtis Markle, was inducted into the NWHOF in 2014. Brother-in-Law Ron Pifer was inducted in 2004. Sam is now the third family member thus honored. This past August 6, a "dress rehearsal" induction was held for Sam, in a heartwarming ceremony. It was a proud day for Sam and family. He passed away on September 20, 2015 after a long battle with cancer.