Please reach out to committee chair, Aaron Cantrell with ideas and suggestions: [email protected]
Honoring a legacy. Supporting the next generation.
Coach Dave Nelson dedicated his life to building character and developing young athletes through wrestling. Now, we continue his mission by supporting student-athletes who embody the same values of leadership, perseverance, and integrity.
100% of donations go directly to supporting student-athletes
"Success is not measured by wins and losses, but by the character you build along the way."
— Coach Dave Nelson
Coach Dave Nelson wasn't just a wrestling coach—he was a mentor, a role model, and a father figure to countless young athletes. For over two decades, he dedicated his life to teaching more than just wrestling techniques; he taught discipline, perseverance, and the true meaning of sportsmanship.
His impact extended far beyond the mat. Coach Dave believed that wrestling was a vehicle for building character and developing young men and women who would become leaders in their communities. He saw potential in every athlete and pushed them to be their best—not just in competition, but in life.
Those who knew Coach Dave remember his infectious enthusiasm, his unwavering support, and his ability to inspire greatness in others. His legacy continues through the countless lives he touched and the values he instilled in every student-athlete he coached.
An annual award recognizing graduating senior wrestlers who exemplify the character, leadership, and dedication that Coach Dave Nelson championed throughout his career.
Application details and timeline announced annually
Help us expand this scholarship to support more student-athletes each year
Make a DonationJoin us for special events honoring Coach Dave's legacy and supporting the next generation of wrestling champions.
Join us for a community dinner at Old Murillo's Restaurant to celebrate Coach Dave's legacy and support the scholarship fund. Enjoy great food, share stories, and connect with fellow supporters in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Want to be notified about upcoming events? Contact us to join our mailing list and never miss an opportunity to honor Coach Dave's legacy.
Your contribution helps us continue Coach Dave's mission of developing young athletes with strong character and leadership skills.
Donation functionality coming soon! Please contact us directly to contribute.
Make a single contribution to support this year's scholarship recipient and honor Coach Dave's memory.
Become a sustaining supporter and help us plan for the future while building a lasting legacy.
Partner with us as a corporate sponsor and demonstrate your commitment to youth development.
100% of your donation goes directly to the scholarship fund. No administrative fees. No overhead costs. Just direct support for deserving student-athletes.
Please email us to make a contribution • Tax-deductible
The Dave Nelson Wrestling Legacy Scholarship is a grassroots initiative created by community members, former athletes, and friends who were inspired by Coach Dave Nelson's dedication to youth development and character building.
This scholarship fund is independently organized and managed by adults who wish to honor Coach Dave's memory and continue his mission of supporting young wrestlers. It operates as a private memorial scholarship program.
This scholarship is not school-sponsored, school-affiliated, or endorsed by any educational institution. It is an independent, adult-led community initiative designed to honor Coach Dave Nelson's legacy and support student-athletes who embody his values.
We are committed to transparency and responsible stewardship of all donations. Every contribution goes directly to supporting deserving student-athletes, with no administrative overhead or fees deducted.
If you have questions about the scholarship, eligibility criteria, or how to nominate a candidate, please reach out to our organizing committee through the contact information provided.
Organized by former athletes & community members
Thank you for helping us honor Coach Dave's legacy and support the next generation of wrestling leaders.