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Legendary Altoona Wrestling Coach Marty Rusnak Passes Away at 81

Altoona, PA – Marty Rusnak, the iconic wrestling coach who spent 36 years at Altoona Area High School, passed away at the age of 81 after suffering injuries from a fall at his home. Rusnak’s impact on the sport of wrestling was monumental, with 317 dual meet wins and coaching 44 District 6, 16 regional, and two PIAA state champions.

Former wrestlers and coaching colleagues remembered Rusnak with great fondness and reverence, highlighting his influence on their lives both on and off the mat. Doug Rosenberry, a former state medalist and current English teacher at Altoona, credited Rusnak for inspiring him to pursue teaching and coaching.

Rusnak’s coaching extended beyond the wrestling mat, as he welcomed wrestlers into his home and heart, providing support and guidance to those in need. His dedication to the sport and his athletes was unwavering, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew him.

Brad Benson, one of Rusnak’s state champions who went on to play in the NFL, expressed his deep gratitude for the coach who shaped his sports career and remained a dear friend throughout the years. Other former wrestlers, including Steve Maurey and Jason Kutz, also shared their admiration for Rusnak’s coaching prowess and personal mentorship.

Rusnak’s legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched and the wrestling program he built at Altoona. His commitment to excellence, both on and off the mat, will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Friends and colleagues will gather to pay their respects at the Santella Funeral Home before the funeral at Our Lady of Mount Carmel. A complete obituary will be published next week, honoring the life and legacy of a true wrestling legend.