Westlake Connection at NCAA Championships

Kyle Dake is NCAA Record Setter

Congratulations to the family of 1980 Westlake High grad Doug Dake and his wife, Jodi!

Their son, Kyle Dake of Cornell University, became the first-ever NCAA Div. I wrestling champion to win four titles in four different weight classes.

Kyle wrapped up his amazing collegiate career at the NCAA Div. I championships in Des Moines, Iowa March 23 where he squared off against Ohioan David Taylor (St. Paris Graham High) of Penn State in a nationally televised showdown at 165 pounds.

Dake prevailed while Doug, Jodi and family watched from the stands with the Cornell faithful. Noted among the Big Red fans were Westlake High wrestling coaches Mike Antonyszyn and Jerry Miller.

“I would like to offer all my best to my western Cleveland family’s friends and fans who followed Kyle to his fourth National Title,” said Doug Dake after the big night. “Thank you.”

Deservedly, Kyle Dake has occupied national sports headlines after an unprecedented collegiate career that saw him win individual NCAA titleS at 141, 149, 157 and 165 pounds over the past four years.

But this story is about showing a little love to Doug and Jodi, Kent State alums where Doug was an all-American wrestler and the former Jodi Provost was a gymnast.

Back in 1980, Doug became the first Westlake High wrestler to win a state championship, His title came at 175 pounds. He remains, today, the lone Westlake High matman to ever win a state crown. Doug went on to teach and coach in the Lansing Central School District in New York. Cornell University is located in nearby Ithaca, NY, where son Kyle will now enjoy legendary athletic status for all-time.

Kyle Dake on the podium in Des Moines, accepting his fourth NCAA title award March 23.
Dad Doug Dake, Kyle Dake and mom Jodi Provost Dake. Doug and Jodi were athletes at Kent State University
What’s Joe McFarland doing in this spread? The University of Michigan head wrestling coach was a state champ at North Olmsted High in 1980 at 105 pounds. It was his second state title before moving on to college. McFarland’s North Olmsted team still wrestles in the same league as Dake’s 1980 Westlake squad – the Southwestern Conference serving West Shore Cleveland, Ohio

State Champ Doug Dake dominates his opponent – the usual position for Doug, says the 1980 Westlake High yearbook.
Doug Dake stayed in shape running track in high school.
Doug Dake accepts an award of recognition from Westlake High Athletic Director Bob Hersman for his state wrestling championship in 1980. Doug remains as the lone state wrestling champ from Westlake High.

Doug Dake, in 1980, was just as exuberant about sports and life and is his son, Kyle, today.
Kyle Dake in action last month in Des Moines where he became the first-ever four time NCAA wrestling champ in four different weight classes.

————————————————————————————————————————————

Advertise with The Villager!
Local, effective advertising that works!
Get your name out there!

Website and Print Advertising combos available!
Fill out our Contact Us form or call us today! 440-899-9277

Serving 100,000+ readers each month.