Posted
December 30, 2024
Ryan Lang '03, the first St. Edward wrestler to win four individual state championships, will be inducted into the Howard E. Ferguson Athletic Hall of Fame on January 16. Join us to celebrate his achievements and honor all the 2025 inductees!
In the storied history of St. Edward wrestling, only four Eagles have won an individual state championship all four years. Ryan Lang ’03 was the first to accomplish this amazing feat! Lang is also a two-time Ironman champion; a Beast of the East champion; a five-time freestyle state champion; and a junior freestyle national champion, and he helped the Eagles secure four state championships and a national championship.
“I enjoyed so much about my time at St. Edward," Lang said. "My favorite memories are the inspiring speeches and conversations I shared with the many great coaches, teachers, classmates, teammates, and alumni I had the privilege of being around. One moment that stands out is after winning my fourth state championship—making eye contact with my family, blowing a kiss to my mom, and sharing that connection with my brothers and dad. I am incredibly grateful to have represented such a legendary school.”
Lang attended Northwestern University, where he was a Big Ten champion and a two-time college All-American, finishing his college wrestling career with an overall record of 104-27. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Communication Studies and today is a licensed life and health insurance agent.
“I was fortunate to have a very supportive father, a strong youth wrestling program, and an athletic family who instilled in me the belief that whatever we do in life, we should give it our all and strive to reach our full potential,” Lang said. “Receiving The Edge by Howard Ferguson inspired me greatly, and my love for competing ultimately drove my success.”
Lang is the son of Peggy and Bill Lang and has a 6-year-old son named Ledger. His girlfriend is Elizabeth Kukucka, and her children are Maren (10) and Frankie (7). Lang also has two brothers, Kyle and Troy, and a niece, Eva.
Lang is still involved in wrestling through training and mentoring young athletes. “I am extremely humbled, honored, proud, grateful, and excited to be such a great part of an amazing tradition, school, and athletic program,” Lang said. “I loved my experience at St. Edward and I look back on all of the great memories with appreciation. I also love contributing to the success of today’s wrestlers by acting as a positive influence and role model.”