Search Begins for Streicher’s Successor
After 27 years, Linn-Mar Head Wrestling Coach Doug Streicher is stepping down.
“Coach Streicher represented what a coach is supposed to be he always created a culture and environment where the wrestlers could find success- no matter their skill level. The wrestling room was a safe home for many kids who loved the sport of wrestling where they knew there were coaches, like Coach Streicher, that cared about them- not only as a wrestler but as a human being,” said Linn-Mar Athletic Director Tonya Moe. “Those athletes always entered that program as wrestlers but left as better people with life skills that will be with them forever such as discipline, hard work, empathy, and dedication. That’s hard to find these days and Coach Streicher provided that for Linn-Mar for 27 years. I am a better Athletic Director and person because of working with coaches like Doug!”
The Cedar Rapids Gazette reported Streicher opened this season 22nd on Iowa’s all-time dual wins list, and finished with 432 career dual victories. Linn-Mar made seven State Duals appearances, placing third in 2002 and fourth in 2022. The Lions set a school record with 30 dual wins in 2012.
Linn-Mar recorded 11 top-10 team finishes at the traditional tournament under Streicher, including a third-place finish in 2002 and fourth place in 2012, 2014, and 2023. Linn-Mar was ninth with 90 points and five state medalists this season.
He coached 152 state qualifiers, 84 state medalists, 28 state finalists, and eight wrestlers to 14 individual state crowns.
Streicher plans to stay involved but just in a different capacity. He said he would like to continue working with the Linn-Mar Wrestling Club.
“As far as replacing Doug, the job will be posted and we will see what applicants we get. But I would not be surprised and would anticipate a few assistant coaches being interested. We hope to hire someone fairly soon so the transition can be smooth and they can go right to work with Spring and Summer training for our athletes.” said Moe.
Streicher will continue as a physical education teacher at the High School.