John JacobsDecember 19, 2020Last Updated: December 19, 2020
Alfred “Al” DeLeon, 82, of Britt, passed away Wednesday, December 16, 2020 at the Kanawha Community Home.
A private family funeral service for Al DeLeon will be held at First Lutheran Church in Britt.
There will be a Celebration of Life Memorial Service for Al held at a later date.
Legendary West Hancock wrestling coach dies
DeLeon coached at Britt and West Hancock for 33 years.
Posted: Dec 17, 2020 10:43 PM
Posted By: Kaleb Gillock
KIMT NEWS 3 SPORTS – Another West Hancock coaching legend has died. The West Hancock activities department announced the passing of legendary wrestling coach, Al DeLeon, on Twitter Thursday.
DeLeon coached at Britt and West Hancock for a total of 33 years where he won three straight state championships with multiple runner-up finishes. He also had multiple wrestlers land podium finishes at the state wrestling tournament.
As a wrestler himself, he attended Mankato State College where he was a two-time All-American. He would later wrestle in the 1964 Olympic trials.
Zarren EgesdalDecember 17, 2020Last Updated: December 17, 2020 Photo Credit - Seaman Wrestling
West Hancock Community Schools confirmed today that former West Hancock Wrestling coach Al DeLeon passed away last night.
DeLeon coached the Eagles program from 1962-1995 and collected a career record of 273-138-15. He coached Britt – West Hancock to team titles in 1971, 1972, and 1973; they also finished as the runner-up seven times. Over 25 wrestlers won individual championships during his 33-year career. He coached nine 2-time champs, three of which went on to become 3-time champs.
As a wrestler for Blue Earth High School, he recorded a 151-4-1 and won three state titles. Following his time at Blue Earth, DeLeon wrestled at Mankota State (Minnesota State, Mankota), a two-time NCAA Division I All-American; and was a finalist in the 1964 Olympic Trials.