Mid year top wrestlers get to test their skills at the highest level during the Ken Kraft Midands Tournament. But who is Ken Kraft??? Ken Kraft, an Illinois native,  developed his collegiate wrestling skill at Northwestern University. After graduation in the late 1950's, he became the youngest college coach (Northwestern) at that time. He immediately established another distinction that has not been equaled. He coached his brother Art to a National Championship. While at Northwestern, Kraft produced numerous Big 10 Champions, numerous national place winners and Two National Champions. 

Kraft's greatest contributions to wrestling have been as a contributor. He's been on the National Rules Committees of various types for a number of years. He has been a well-known commentator on Wide World of Sports and for both the 1972 and 1976 Olympics. Closer to home, Kraft sponsored the Northwestern Clinic, co-sponsored the Midlands Tournament since its inception and now hosts the Midlands event. For his work at the national level, Kraft has been inducted into the Helms Foundation, Midlands and Illinois Coaches HALL OF FAME.
[Post edited by wasris at 05/18/2020 06:56AM]