Who Is Dave Schultz (amateur wrestler)? Age, Biography and Wiki
Born on June 6, 1959, Dave Schultz made a groundbreaking impact in the world of amateur wrestling before his untimely passing in 1996. He was not only an Olympic gold medalist but also a beloved coach who inspired many young wrestlers. Throughout his career, Schultz amassed numerous accolades, showcasing his incredible talent and dedication to the sport.
At the time of writing in 2025, if he were still alive, he would be 66 years old. His legacy continues to influence aspiring wrestlers and the sports community alike.
| Occupation | Wrestlers |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | June 6, 1959 |
| Age | 36 Years |
| Birth Place | Palo Alto, California, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Gemini |
| Country | U.S |
| Date of death | 26 January, 1996 |
| Died Place | Newtown Square, Pennsylvania, U.S. |
Popularity
Dave Schultz (amateur wrestler)'s Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Dave Schultz was known for his athletic build, which contributed to his success on the wrestling mat. While specific details about his height and weight during his wrestling career are well documented, the following estimates illustrate his robust physique:
- Height: 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm)
- Weight: Competed in the 74 kg (163 lbs) weight class
As a young child, Dave was overweight (nicknamed "Pudge"), and was often bullied at school by classmates for his weight and appearance. He also had dyslexia, which many of his teachers mistook for mental disabilities.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Dave Schultz was a family man and cherished his relationships deeply. He was married to the love of his life, Christina Schultz, who stood by him throughout his successful career. They shared a profound bond that transcended the sport, and together, they had children, further expanding their loving family. Sadly, the tragic loss of Dave shook his family and the wrestling community profoundly.
While Dave Schultz is not known for any models of romantic relationships besides his marriage, the strength and love he shared with his wife are commemorated in his legacy.
Dave Schultz was 36 at the time of his death. His body was cremated. Schultz's surviving family included his wife Nancy, his son Alexander, his daughter Danielle, his siblings, and both parents.
His wife, Nancy, later founded the Dave Schultz Wrestling Club, which supported 20 displaced athletes from Team Foxcatcher, providing them with training and coaching resources through the 1996 Olympics.
In recognition of her contributions, she received the Lifetime Service to Wrestling award from the California Chapter of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame in 2013 and the Hall of Fame's Order of Merit award in 2018.
Net Worth and Salary
Although Dave Schultz may not have amassed the same wealth as many modern-day athletes, his contributions to sports have been invaluable. At the time of his passing in 1996, he had a modest net worth estimated at around $1 million, primarily derived from his wrestling career, coaching, and endorsements.
In 2025, had he remained a figure in the sports industry, his net worth would likely be significantly higher due to increased opportunities and endorsements for successful athletes.
Career, Business and Investments
Dave Schultz's wrestling career is marked by exceptional success, including a gold medal at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics and multiple World Championships. After transitioning from competitive wrestling, he focused on coaching, sharing his knowledge and experiences with future generations. His coaching career was met with great enthusiasm, as he trained numerous young wrestlers.
In terms of investments, while specific data about his investments isn't widely known, often athletes engage in business ventures post-career. Schultz’s passion for wrestling often translated into other activities, such as mentoring and involvement in wrestling organizations.
Schultz was employed as a coach by John du Pont, a multimillionaire philanthropist who sponsored the private Foxcatcher wrestling team at an amateur sports center known as Foxcatcher Farm that he set up on his estate in Pennsylvania. In January 1996, Schultz was shot and killed by du Pont. du Pont would be convicted of third-degree murder and was sentenced to thirteen to thirty years for prison.
Social Network
Dave Schultz remains a respected and revered figure in the wrestling community. Although he didn't have a social media presence during his lifetime, his legacy continues to echo through various platforms. Wrestling organizations, tributes from fans, and family accounts frequently share memories and honor his contributions, helping to keep his spirit alive in the digital age.
* Dave's brother Mark Schultz wrote a non-fiction book, Foxcatcher: The True Story of My Brother's Murder, John du Pont's Madness, and the Quest for Olympic Gold (2014).
Education
Dave Schultz attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he further honed his wrestling skills and academic knowledge. His education played an essential role in shaping his approach to coaching and mentorship within the sport.
In conclusion, Dave Schultz's legacy continues to be an inspiration for many in the wrestling community and beyond. His remarkable achievements, loving relationships, and dedication to the sport have solidified his place in history, ensuring that his story is told for generations to come.
David Lesley Schultz (June 6, 1959 – January 26, 1996) was an American Olympic and World champion freestyle wrestler, and a seven-time World and Olympic medalist. He coached individuals and teams at the college level and also privately.
