Van Stokes of Clarksville, Tenn, who has served in numerous leadership positions and is a nationally respected broadcaster, has been named Man of the Year by USA Wrestling, the national governing body for wrestling in the United States. This award recognizes an outstanding man for his contributions to the sport of wrestling.

“I am deeply honored and humbled to receive this recognition. I am truly grateful for all of the opportunities I have had to work with the dedicated leaders, coaches, athletes and volunteers in this organization. USA Wrestling embodies what is best about the Olympic spirit.”

Van Stokes currently serves at the Second Vice President of USA Wrestling, his second term in this position. He has also served a term as a Treasurer of the organization on two occasions.

Stokes has been active on numerous USA Wrestling standing committees including the Executive Committee, Finance Committee, the Coaches Selection Committee for all three styles and the ad-hoc Title IX Committee. He was most recently chair of the Greco-Roman Coach Selection Committee.

He has served in leadership positions on international competitions throughout the world including Iran, Sicily, France, Croatia, Turkey, Russia, Cuba, and Argentina. Included was a post as Team Leader at the 1995 Pan American Games, as well as a number CISM World Military Games.

He represents the Armed Forces on the Board of Directors, and has been involved in many aspects of the Armed Forces wrestling programs.

Van began works as a television sports announcer in 1990 covering different Olympic sports broadcast on ESPN, FOX, and other networks. Stokes has done numerous events for USA Wrestling, both for national television as well as internet broadcasts. Included have been the 1995 World Championships and a number of U.S. Nationals Championships. He is the radio voice for Austin Peay State University baseball and football.

Van served as Assistant Producer for the World Wrestling Championships in 1995 and 2003, as well as the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta. In this capacity, he was responsible for assisting with the production of announcements, athlete presentations, medal ceremonies, music, message displays, and overall presentation of events.

He is the Deputy Director of Morale, Welfare and Recreation at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, and has been married to his wife Lynn for 35 years. They have three grown sons.

“It is a great privilege to be involved in helping shape direction and sharpen focus for this national governing body,” said Stokes.