Steve Delaney's wrestling career was marked by achievement, leadership, and trailblazing milestones that laid the foundation for his later success as a coach.

Delaney’s journey began at Grand Ledge High School (class of 1997), where he emerged as one of the most accomplished wrestlers in school history. A four-year varsity competitor (1994–1997), he compiled a career record of 133–22 and served as team captain in 1996 and 1997. He was a four-time conference finalist, capturing two conference titles, and earned two district championships.

Delaney distinguished himself on the state stage as a two-time All-State selection, placing 6th in 1995 before achieving a historic milestone in 1996: he became Grand Ledge High School’s first Division 1 individual state champion since 1972, winning the 130-pound title with a 9–6 victory over Okemos’ Adam Robison. His senior year accomplishments earned him a spot on the All-Classes Michigan Dream Team (1997), and he further represented the USA Junior National Team competing in Bulgaria.

Following high school, Delaney continued his wrestling career at Michigan State University (1997–2000), competing as a varsity wrestler in the 149-pound weight class while earning an athletic scholarship. At MSU, he honed his skills against top-tier competition and contributed to the varsity team’s success.

Delaney then transferred to Olivet College (2000–2002), competing in the 157-pound weight class. During this period, he compiled a career varsity record of 35–15 over a season and a half, finishing top four in five regular-season tournaments (2001). He was a Hartland Collegiate Athletic Conference finalist and placed fourth at the prestigious Citrus Open in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida (2001). In recognition of his leadership, he was named team captain for the 2001–2002 season.

After his collegiate wrestling career, Delaney returned to Grand Ledge, becoming a pivotal figure in the local wrestling community. As head coach of the Grand Ledge High School wrestling team from 2007-2020, he led the program to sustained excellence. He led the team to 5 league titles, 11 district titles, and a regional title in 2016. It was only the 7th regional title in school history (at the time, the first in 11 years, and still currently the program's last regional title as of 2026). In 2016, he was honored as the MHSAA Division 1 Wrestling Coach of the Year, and he was the Lansing State Journal Wrestling Coach of the Year in 2005, 2012, and 2016, a testament to his dedication, leadership, and enduring impact on high school wrestling. During his time as head coach, he also coached 2 individual state champions and dozens of state qualifiers. Steve continues to work as a wrestling coach with the GL youth wrestling program.

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