Brothers Gary and Tom Svendsen ended their wrestling dynasty at Saint John's University 50 years ago, collectively recording 201 victories with Gary earning All-America honors twice and Tom winning three National Catholic Invitational titles and three MIAC titles. Their impact on the program's wrestling style is still remembered, as they brought a unique leg-wrestling style and played a major role in the success of SJU wrestlers. Tom's career winning percentage of .889 and Gary's .921 still rank as the top two in program history.

By the Numbers
  • Gary finished his career with a record of 105-9
  • Tom had a career record of 96-12
  • Tom was a state champion at 112 pounds at Coon Rapids High School in 1970
  • The SJU basketball team finished the 1983-84 season with a 20-8 record
  • With the resignation of SJU basketball coach Ed Hasbrouck in 1964, Jim Smith was named as his successor
State of Play
  • Gary finished his career with a record of 105-9, earning All-America honors twice
  • Tom, with a career record of 96-12, won three National Catholic Invitational titles and three MIAC titles
  • Tom's career winning percentage of .889 and Gary's .921 still rank as the top two in program history
  • Jim Smith was named as the successor to SJU basketball coach Ed Hasbrouck in 1964
Bottom Line

The Svendsen brothers left an indelible mark on the SJU wrestling program, with their unique style and unparalleled success continuing to be part of the university's athletic legacy.