SOMERS, Wis. — The University of Wisconsin-Parkside department of athletics is saddened to learn that Jim Koch, Ranger wrestling coach from 1970 to 2011, has passed away after suffering severe injuries when he was struck by a car.
Koch was in St. Louis attending the NCAA Division I Wrestling Championships and was struck by a motorist while on a morning run.
Koch was the first wrestling coach at Wisconsin-Parkside beginning in 1970 and his tenure included having 68 wrestlers reach the national tournament while compiling 277 dual meet victories. He was named the Wisconsin/Midwest Regional Coach of the Year on 10 occasions and was selected as the Amateur Wrestling News Collegiate Rookie Coach of the Year in 1971. Continue reading at www.parksiderangers.com