Clarion University Sports Hall of Fame
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Degree: Education
Les Bressler was an outstanding wrestler at Clarion State College from 1969–72 under legendary head coach Bob Bubb. Bressler was a two-time NAIA All-American and Clarion's first wrestling national champion. A native of Curwensville, Pa., and a 1967 graduate of Curwensville High, Les did not wrestle his freshman year (1967-68). Bressler's sophomore year in 1969 saw him post an 11-4 record, place third at PSAC's and then go to the NAIA Nationals and place fifth with a record of 4-2 at 158 pounds. In 1970 he became Clarion's first wrestling national champion winning the NAIA National Championship at 158 pounds going 5-0 at nationals. He finished the season with a 21-5 record, also won the Cleveland State Tournament and placed second at PSAC's. Les missed 1971, which would have been his senior year, with an injury in his first match of the season. He came back in 1972 and posted a 17-6 record and placed third at PSAC's at 158 pounds. Bressler finished his career with a record of 49-16 with eight falls. Clarion also won the PSAC team title in 1972, his senior year, after placing second in 1969, 1970 and 1971. The Golden Eagles had a dual meet record of 46-12 during his tenure.
At the time of his induction, Les and significant other Karen resided in Waterville, Pa. Les has a son Terry, a son Shawn, who passed away, and a stepson Ben.
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