Missouri Wrestling
Add another one.
Excelsior Springs’ Vic Bonuchi inducted to William Jewell 2023 Athletics Hall of Fame.
Bonuchi carved an indelible legacy at Excelsior Springs High School through his exemplary leadership as a football and wrestling coach. His prowess in football coaching was evident in the remarkable 137-44-7 record his teams boasted during his tenure. His journey as the Tigers’ head coach was divided into two glorious eras; he initially took the reins in 1960 and continued to weave his magic until 1973. Then, answering the call of his roots, Bonuchi moved to William Jewell College, his alma mater, where he imparted his wisdom as the defensive coordinator.
However, his heart led him back to the Tigers in 1989, and he elevated the program to unprecedented heights. The zenith of his coaching career was guiding Excelsior Springs to state championships in 1994 and 1996. Between 1963 and 1968, the Tigers also basked in an incredible 45-game winning streak. Such was his impact that the football field at Excelsior Springs was christened in his honor.
Bonuchi’s talents were not confined to football alone; he was also a maestro in wrestling coaching. Under his tutelage, the high school’s wrestling team clinched state titles in 1974 and 1975. Later, he donned the hat of a baseball coach, steering the school’s baseball team to three enthralling Final Fours in 1995, 1996, and 1999.
Bonuchi’s illustrious career has been adorned with several hall of fame inductions. His name graces the hallowed halls of the Missouri High School Football Coaches Association, Missouri High School Wrestling Coaches Association, the Greater Kansas City Football Coaches Association, and the Excelsior Springs High School Athletic Hall of Fame. Further cementing his legendary status, Bonuchi was part of the pioneering class inducted into the Missouri Chapter of the National Wrestling Coaches Hall of Fame.
