Wichita East 1960 Wrestling Team
In the winter of 1960, the Wichita High School East wrestling team embarked on a journey many of us remember, under the guidance of
Coach Jim Barger, who also coached the football team. One class of 1960 wrestler, David Unruh, showcased exceptional talent and determination, setting the stage for a remarkable athletic career.
Coach Barger’s Mentorship
Coach Jim Barger was well known at East High School for his dedication to his own athletic career at East High and at Oklahoma State University. With 
a deep-rooted passion for both wrestling and football, he transmitted the need for discipline, resilience, and sportsmanship.
Under Barger’s guidance, the wrestling team underwent rigorous training sessions, both physically and mentally preparing themselves for the challenges that lay ahead. Barger instilled in them a belief in their abilities, fostering an environment of strength through self-sacrifice.
David Unruh’s Rise
Amidst the talented wrestlers, David Unruh stood out as a formidable competitor. Blessed with innate athleticism and an unwavering work ethic, Unruh became a leader within the team. His passion for
wrestling drove him to constantly push his limits and improve his skills.
(Right, Dave Unruh grapples for position with a North High wrestler.)
To secure a spot in the prestigious state championship held in Oakley, Kansas, each wrestler had to perform well in the divisional tournament and subsequent regional tournament. Placing in the top four in a weight class in each of these two contests was the pathway to the coveted state tournament.
The Road to Oakley in 1960
The determined East High wrestling team set out on the road to Oakley. At the divisional tournament, Unruh and his teammates showcased their skills and resilience, battling fiercely on the mat. Unruh secured his spot among the top four in his weight class, earning a ticket to the regional tournament.
At the regional tournament, the stakes were higher, as wrestlers from across the region converged to battle for the opportunity to compete at the state level. Undeterred by the pressure, Unruh secured his place once again in the top four.
State Championship and Beyond
Four Wichita East wrestlers placed in the 1960 state competition at Oakley, though none emerged as a state champion. David Unruh placed 3rd in the state tournament. However, this less than first place finish did not deter him from pursuing his passion for wrestling. Instead, it fueled his intention to excel further.
Unruh’s exceptional talent caught the attention of Kansas State University, where he continued to forge an outstanding wrestling career. At Kansas State, he honed his skills, displaying remarkable technique and tenacity.
Legacy and Inspiration
The 1960 wrestling team’s journey motivated subsequent generations of wrestlers, whose pursuit of excellence in wrestling has inspired new champions to rise. David was a mentor for youth wrestlers for many years and helped form the Wichita Wrestling Club. He was recognized in 2017 for his work with young wrestlers with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award by the National Wrestling Hall of Fame.
Legacy
The year 1960 witnessed the grit of the East High wrestling team as they fought their way towards the state championship meet. Coach Jim Barger’s leadership provided a solid foundation for their success, and David Unruh emerged as a standout wrestler with an unwavering commitment to his craft. The triumphs and setbacks of the team serve as a testament to the resilience, perseverance, and lasting impact of East’s wrestling program.
David Unruh went on to serve four terms as a Sedgwick County Commissioner beginning in 2002. To read his views of the impact of wrestling, click on this title: “Wrestling and Life Lessons.”
Editor’s Note: An artificial intelligence tool, Chat GPT, generated part of the text for this story.
