Doug Parker Challenge (Completed)

The head wrestling coach and professor of physical education at Springfield College for 1955-1990, Doug Parker ’51 is seen by many as the personification of Springfield College and its mission and ideals. Honored by numerous organizations throughout his celebrated 35-year career, Parker’s legacy will now live on at the College through the Doug Parker Wrestling Room, dedicated in July 2012.

Parker served as head wrestling coach at Springfield College for 35 years starting in 1955 and concluding with his retirement in 1990. In that span, Parker’s teams won 22 New England Championship titles, including 16 consecutive from 1955-1970. Overall, Parker finished his coaching career with 485 victories, 35 straight winning seasons, and 15 top-20 national rankings.

“What made coach Parker so special were the personal connections he made with his student-athletes and also other members of the campus,” said Jason Holder, Springfield College head wrestling coach. “Coach Parker had an unconditional regard for his student-athletes and he always had creative ways to connect with and motivate his student-athletes. All of these qualities have developed great wrestlers and great wrestling teams at Springfield College.”