Alli St. John Appointed as ISU Women’s Wrestling Head Coach
Alli St. John has been named the inaugural head coach of the Iowa State University women’s wrestling program. This announcement comes as Iowa State prepares to launch its women’s wrestling team for the 2027-28 academic year. St. John is a highly accomplished athlete, having earned two silver medals at the World Wrestling Championships during her competitive career.
Significance of the Appointment
ISU Endowed Director of Athletics Jamie Pollard expressed enthusiasm for St. John’s leadership, highlighting her exceptional reputation within the wrestling community. He believes she is perfectly suited to establish a championship culture at Iowa State.
St. John’s Wrestling Accomplishments
- Represented the United States at the Summer Universiade in 2013, earning silver in the women’s 59 kg category.
- Claimed silver medals at the World Wrestling Championships in 2016 (Budapest) and 2017 (Paris) in the women’s freestyle 60 kg event.
- Participated in six Senior World Teams over her ten-year career with USA Wrestling.
Her Vision for Iowa State Wrestling
St. John expressed her gratitude and honor in being appointed as the first coach for this program. She emphasized the historical importance of this moment for both Iowa State University and women’s wrestling. St. John is determined to build a top-tier program in Ames, aiming to develop NCAA, World, and Olympic champions.
Academic Background and Previous Coaching Experience
- Obtained a Bachelor of Science degree from King University in 2014.
- Was a two-time Women’s College national champion and a four-time finalist at King University.
- Served as head coach at the Big Game Wrestling Club from 2021-2023.
- Worked as an assistant coach for the Grand View College women’s wrestling program in 2021-2022.
- Completed her master’s degree in Sports Management from Grand View in 2022.
Community Connections and Future Aspirations
Kevin Dresser, ISU Director of Wrestling, praised St. John’s work ethic and connection with the Cyclone fan base. He is confident that her experience and dedication will greatly benefit the program.
Honors and Recognition
- Inducted into the Glen Brand National Wrestling Hall of Fame in 2020.
- Set to join the Illinois Wrestling Coaches and Officials Hall of Fame in 2024.
Originally from Carbondale, Illinois, St. John, along with her husband Derek, an assistant coach for ISU’s men’s wrestling team, is now settled in Ames with their daughter, Stevie. The anticipation for the new Iowa State women’s wrestling program is building as they look forward to its competitive debut.
