The Wisconsin Wrestling Coaches Association salutes Duane Quale for his commitment and dedication to the sport of amateur wrestling. Quale, born and raised in Stoughton, Wisconsin, began his career as a wrestler for Stoughton High School where he became Stoughton's first individual state champion, wrestling under Hall of Fame Coach Bob Spicuzza. He continued to wrestle at the college level under Coach George Martin (for whom the Hall of Fame is named) at UW-Madison.
Upon graduation Duane continued his association as a coach, ending up at Jefferson, Wisconsin, where he coached wrestling from 1967 to 1980. He also served the Jefferson School District as athletic director. Quale's teams were highly regarded and respected by the competition.
In 1980, Duane left the coaching ranks, but continued in the sport in a new capacity, as a highly regarded wrestling official. The WIAA selected him to work the state tournament six times, a testament to his abilities and character.
Duane's family includes wife Lois, and daughters Susan and Michelle. It is interesting to note that all, including Duane, attended and graduated from UW-Madison. (Michelle will graduate in December, 1999.) So, they are truly a UW-Madison family.
Duane Quale gave a lot to the sport of the wrestling community. He passed away on May 18, 1998.