Jeremy Hunter Assistant Coach | University of Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics Website
Jeremy Hunter Assistant Coach | University of Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics Website
The Illini community is mourning the loss of a distinguished champion, Larry TenPas, who passed away on January 16 at the age of 89. TenPas was surrounded by his family at the time of his passing.
TenPas had an illustrious career with the Fighting Illini wrestling program from 1954 to 1956. During this period, he achieved significant accolades, including becoming a three-time All-American and winning the Big Ten Championship in 1955 at 157 pounds. In 1957, he claimed the NCAA Championship title at the same weight class. Additionally, he was a national runner-up in 1955 at 167 pounds and earned a bronze medal in 1954 at 157 pounds. Throughout his competitive years, he was recognized as the Most Valuable Wrestler at the University of Illinois.
Following his wrestling career, TenPas served in the U.S. Army for three years from 1957 to 1959. After completing his service, he returned to Waukegan High School, his alma mater, where he coached freshmen and sophomores until being promoted to head coach in 1967—a position he held until 1985.
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