Induction Graduation Sport(s)

2022 1984 Wrestling

Dan Willaman is a 1984 graduate of Hoover High School. Dan began wrestling at an early age at coach Tolarchyk’s YMCA wrestling camp. Some of his many accomplishments during his high school career were 2x sectional champion, 2x district champion, 3x 1st team federal league, 3x 1st team all-county, 2x team MVP, 1x Stark County MVP. In 1982, Dan placed fifth in the state tournament, and was a two time state champion in 1983 and 1984.

Dan received a full scholarship to Arizona State University, however red-shirted during his first year. He then transferred to Edinboro University of Pennsylvania to continue his wrestling career. In 1986, Dan suffered an ACL tear. After a year of rehabilitation, hard work and determination, he became a Division 1 All-American by placing 4th at the NCAA National Tournament in 1988.

Dan graduated from Edinboro in 1989 with a Bachelor’s in Comprehensive Business Administration, with a minor in History. Dan returned back to North Canton and became an assistant wrestling coach under coach Tolarchyk for one year. In 1990, Dan was inducted into the Stark County Wrestling Hall of Fame. Dan then went onto Ohio University as an assistant wrestling coach where the team won several MAC Championships. He earned his Master’s degree in Athletic Administration and his teaching certificate from OU. Dan returned back to North Canton where he taught history and was an assistant wrestling coach at Jackson High School.

He currently resides in Garrett County, Maryland with his wife and 10 year old daughter where he teaches business and personal finance to high school students. In addition to his achievements in wrestling, Dan is an avid whitewater kayaker.