Deke Edwards (2019) - Saluki Hall of Fame - Southern Illinois University Athletics

Deke Edwards

Induction:
2019
Class:
1961

Deke Edwards recorded a 45-6 record for the wrestling team from 1958-61, an achievement all the more impressive because he was blinded by a hunting accident that occurred when he was 11 years old. Edwards wrestled in the 130-pound weight class as a freshman and finished third at the conference meet. The team was 23-3-1 during his sophomore through senior years. He served as head wrestling coach at Missouri School for the Blind from 1975 until his retirement. He is also a member of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame for his lifetime of service to the sport.