Joe Johnston named assistant wrestling coach at Cornell

Darren Miller Cornell College Sports Information
08/30/2006

MOUNT VERNON, Iowa — Joe Johnston, a two-time All-American and winner of 113 matches at the University of Iowa, has been named assistant wrestling coach at Cornell College.

“Joe’s tough, physical style will be a perfect example for our wrestlers to emulate,” Cornell coach Mike Duroe said. “He brings a wealth of knowledge of the sport of wrestling, on both the collegiate and international levels, and will have a positive impact on our athletes.”

Johnston is from Prairie Village, Kan., and a 2001 graduate of Shawnee Mission East High School, where he was a four-time letterwinner in wrestling, compiling a record of 160-12 with 92 falls. He placed sixth and runner-up at the state wrestling tournament before posting back-to-back state championships in 2000 and 2001. Johnston earned four letters at 157 pounds at Iowa and posted at least 27 varsity victories in all four seasons. He owned a 113-45 career record and placed twice at the national championship — second in 2005 and sixth last season.

Johnston received a bachelor’s degree in art in 2006.

Cornell was 15-9-1 in 2005-06, setting a school record for most dual victories in a season. Returning eight Rams who won at least 16 matches a year ago, including All-American Chris Heilman, who placed seventh in the nation at 125 pounds. Duroe, head coach of the 2005 and 2006 U.S. Freestyle World Team, begins his second season as head coach.