Cael Sanderson: Off the Mat

Cael has set the standard for excellence in the sport of wrestling today. As a collegiate competitor, he became the first wrestler in history to win four NCAA titles while also completing an undefeated career (159-0) at Iowa State University. After his run in college he went on to win a gold medal at the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens, Greece.

In 2001 and 2002, Cael also earned spots on the U.S. Men’s Freestyle World Teams. However, in 2001 he was unable to compete as the September 11 attacks on New York City postponed the event to a date that conflicted with his college schedule. USA Wrestling decided not to attend the 2002 World Championships in Tehran, Iran due to a credible threat placed against the team.

Cael was vindicated in 2003, when he won a silver medal at the World Championships held in New York City’s Madison Square Garden before achieving wrestling greatness with his gold medal in 2004.

Currently, Cael resides in Ames, Iowa, with his wife Kelly. They are have 2 year old son named Tate Stephen Sanderson. Cael is in his 3rd year as the head wrestling coach at Iowa State University, taking the reins from legendary coach Bobby Douglas following his retirement.

His hobbies include fishing, art, spending time with his dog Bonnie and playing video games.

Originally from Heber City, Utah, Cael was coached by his father Steve with great support from his mother Debbie. His two older brothers, Cody and Cole, both excelled as wrestlers at Iowa State as well. Cody is the associate head coach at Iowa State. Cael’s younger brother Cyler is a redshirt junior wrestling for ISU at 157 lbs this season.