FHSU Athletics

Wrestling, 1958-60
A native of Oberlin, Kansas, Dale Votapka was a two-time NAIA All-America performer at Fort Hays State in wrestling. He was the first All-America performer in the program's history, placing third nationally at 115 pounds in 1959. He then finished as national runner-up at 115 pounds in 1960. His national title match in 1960 was against Gray Simons of Lock Haven, who is mentioned among the all-time wrestling greats in the United States as a four-time NAIA national champ, three-time NCAA champ, and two-time Olympian. Prior to enrolling at FHSU, Votapka served in the Navy and was on the All-Navy Wrestling Team in both 1956 and 1957. He placed fifth in the 1956 U.S. Olympic Trials. Once Votapka completed his tour of duty in the Navy, he attended FHSU. He was the Missouri Valley AAU champion three times. Votapka was elected to the Kansas Wrestling Coaches Hall of Fame in 1984. He officiated wrestling at the high school level for 23 years, including 10 consecutive state championship tournaments. Votapka passed away in 2007.