NANKIN– Mapleton High School Wrestling Coach Tim Kline (Class of 1976), who mentored varsity teams for two decades at the helm of the Mounties’ program, recently earned the Lifetime Service to Wrestling Award.
This honor was presented to him by the prestigious National Wrestling Hall of Fame (NWHOF), which is based in Stillwater, Oklahoma.
“This award acknowledges that Tim’s life has been significant and is leaving behind a legacy that others admire,” said NWHOF Executive Director Lee Roy Smith.
“He has a special place in the heritage of the sport.”
Kline, who was nominated for the award by the Ohio Chapter of the NWHOF, coached five individuals to Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) State Championships during his tenure at Mapleton.
He is also a member of the Ashland County Sports Hall of Fame, Class of 2006.
He also guided two wrestlers to OHSAA State Runner-Up accolades, 10 to All-Ohio placement, 26 state qualifiers, three to OHSAA District crowns, 21 to OHSAA Sectional championships, and an amazing 43 athletes to Firelands Conference First-Place finishes.
“My father has made such significant progress and contributions to the sport of wrestling over the years at all levels,” said Mapleton Principal Corey Kline, who is also Tim Kline’s son and a previous wrestling standout (Mapleton and Ashland University) and coach himself.
“This lifetime achievement award recognizes not just the victories, but the lessons of discipline, perseverance and dedication that he has passed on.”
Tim Kline was responsible for coaching an OHSAA State Tournament Most Valuable Wrestler, a four-time Firelands Conference Champion, and six All-Area Wrestlers-of-the Year during his 20 years of Varsity tutelage.
During that span of time, he also was named the Ashland Gazette Coach-of-the-Year twice.
“Tim is leaving his family, friends, and wrestling fans a valuable asset … a respectable name and reputation for serving a sport that all consider worthy of passing on to future generations,” stated Smith.
Tim Kline continues to do just that. After retiring as a varsity coach years ago he dedicated himself to the youth of his community and can always be found helping on the biddy mats and at area tournaments.
His knowledge and dedication to the sport will remain an invaluable asset to the up-and-coming area wrestlers.