University of Minnesota Athletics
John Whitaker - M Club Hall of Fame
John Whitaker
Class of 2011
Wrestling: 1935-37
A dominant figure in the early days of Minnesota Wrestling, John Whitaker's accomplishments set the bar for Gopher Wrestling.
Whitaker will always be remembered as the program's first ever NCAA Champion. He earned the honor on March 20, 1937, on the campus of the then-named Indiana State Teachers College, (presently known as Indiana State University) were as a senior he defeated John Ginay of Illinois in the 175 pound championship match at the 10th NCAA Wrestling Tournament to become the Gophers first champion.
Whitaker is a member of the NCAA Coaches Association Division Hall of Fame.