Gary Bentrim (2003) - Hall of Fame

Gary Bentrim

Induction:
2003
Class:
1977

Gary Bentrim can hold his own amongst the illustrious history of successful UNI wrestlers.

During his high school career at Cedar Rapids (Iowa) Jefferson, he compiled a career record of 82-8-1. He recorded a 28-1 record as a junior while finishing runner-up at the state tournament. He went undefeated his senior year with a 27-0 mark, winning the state title. He placed third in freestyle and fourth in Greco-Roman at the Junior Olympic Nationals his junior year. He also finished second in the 1972 Regional Olympic try-outs in Iowa City.

Bentrim became a Panther upon his high school graduation, continuing his phenomenal wrestling career. He lettered from 1976-78. He was honored as a three-time North Central Conference Champion and was just the third three-time NCAA Division II champion. He was part of the 1975 Division II National Championship team and the third place teams in 1976 and 1977. He ended his collegiate career with a record of 63-9-4 and graduated with a bachelor's degree in industrial technology, physical education and safety education.

After graduation, Bentrim worked in various engineering positions, including the engineering manager at Musco Lighting of Muscatine, Iowa. Bentrim also has been an active volunteer in his community, serving as a volunteer coach and an official for soccer and wrestling. He has served as a Boy Scout leader, has been a member of the School Board Advisory Council, and served as President of Solon's Beef Days Celebration for several years.

He was inducted into Jefferson's Hall of Fame in 1974 and was named to the North Central Conference's All-Century Team at 142 pounds in 2001.