Randy Pugh

Biography

Randy Pugh completed his 23rd season in 2025-26 as a UNI assistant and has helped develop All-Americans Jarion Beets (174), Eric Hauan (174), Kyle Hansen (184), Jason Payne (197), Sean Stender (197), Paul Hynek (285), Ryan Loder (184), as well as NCAA champions and Big 12 Wrestlers of the Year Drew Foster and Parker Keckeisen (184). Pugh trained for international competition following his All-America career at UNI. The Columbus Junction, Iowa, native finished fourth at the USA World Trials in June 2002 and competed in the trials again in 2003. In 2002, he won the Sunkist International Open and garnered a third-place finish at the U.S. Open. In 2003, Pugh placed eighth at the U.S. Open. He also placed third at the Dave Schultz Open in 2003. As an athlete at UNI, Pugh finished fourth at the 2000 NCAA Championships at 174 pounds, capping a senior season with a 26-4 record. He was ranked as high as third nationally after upending top-rated Otto Olson at the Virginia Duals. Pugh was a state high school champion his senior year before enrolling at the U.S. Naval Academy, where he compiled a 16-8 record his first year. He transferred to UNI in 1998 and ended with a 70-17 career record. For Pugh, the biggest change from competing on the mat to coaching his former teammates is motivating others. “When I was on the mat, I was doing what it took to make myself a better athlete,” Pugh said. “But as a coach, I am more concerned with what others are doing and helping them improve.” Pugh’s