Don Hale was born in Watertown, Wisconsin. He attended Juneau High School (Currently known as Dodgeland High School) and graduated in 1967. He attended the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh and earned a Bachelor of Music Education in 1971. After graduation, Don accepted a position as Middle School Band Director in the Winneconne School System. In 1983, earned his Master of Arts degree in Oshkosh. The same year, Don became the High School Band Director in Winneconne.
In High School, Don was very active in music and other activities. He served on the yearbook staff, the school newspaper, forensics and as President of the Student Council. Don was also a Badger Boys State Representative. Don was active in athletics, as well, participating in wrestling, football, track, and baseball.
Don started the Middle School wrestling program at Winneconne in his first year of teaching. He also coached middle school track for several years. After coaching Middle School Wrestling for four years, and as the High School Assistant Coach for two years, Don became Winneconne�s Head Wrestling Coach in 1977 until he retired from coaching in 2004.
During his coaching career in Winneconne, his teams recorded 170 dual meet wins. Don was also blessed to coach 38 Conference Champions and 15 State Qualifiers. Don also coached 3 State Champions including 2004 Wisconsin Wrestler of the Year, Dallas Herbst.
In 2003, Don was selected as WWCA District Coach of the Year and the Appleton Post Crescent Newspaper Coach of the Year. In 2004, Don was invited to coach the Minnesota-Wisconsin Exchange.
Don has been very active in the Wisconsin Wrestling Coaches Association. Don was a District Representative from 1987-1989 and served as Secretary from 1989-1993. From 1993-1995 Don was President-Elect and served as President from 1995-1997. In 1997-2000, Don served as Past President and since 2000, he has served as Secretary.
Don was also active in WWCA Committee work as well. He served on the 7% Committee and is presently working with the Alumni Committee. He also served on the WIAA Wrestling Rules Advisory Committee in 1996-1997 as well as 1999-2002.
Don has been active in his church and his community. In 2004, the Winneconne Area Education Foundation selected Don as Community Leader of the Year 2004 and started a scholarship fund in his name.
Don is currently living in Winneconne with his wife, Kris, and beginning his 35th year as a teacher. He has 2 stepsons, Eric and Corey. Don keeps busy by performing his trumpet with several bands. He recently recorded a CD with the Big Band Reunion. Don has enjoyed making many good friends in Winneconne and the surrounding area throughout the years.