Duncan Delzell
Burlington, Iowa
Class of 2024
Why did you chose Central?
I chose Central because I was amazed by the top level facilities, coaches, and teachers it had to offer while still keeping a small town feel. After my first visit where I had the opportunity to meet guys on the wrestling team and get an introductory experience to what being a part of the Central Wrestling Family would be like, I was all in.
Favorite professor and why?
I would say Dr. Shriver is my favorite professor on campus because he has been a tremendous help when it came to finding out what classes and what pathways would best suit me and my career path. I’ve also had a great experience of summer research with him and have grown my love in chemistry. Plus, you can’t beat biochemistry night lab.
You’re majoring in biochemistry and education because?
I am majoring in biochemistry and education because I want to be able to teach one of my passions which is science and hopefully instill a passion for science for others who would take my class. Another passion of mine of course is wrestling and I want to be able to pass on what I know and also instill a love for the sport.
Besides athletics, what else are you involved in on campus?
I am involved in Team Huddle with Coach Diehl and the wrestling team. I conduct research with Dr. Shriver concerning the synthesis of Indirubin. Finally I am a teaching assistant in organic chemistry.
Who are your go-to musical artists?
I have a wide range of musical taste but I have to go with Tame Impala, Gorillaz, and Kanye West
How has attending Central and playing a sport impacted your life?
I think it has strengthened my skill for multi-tasking and being able to get whatever I need to do finished whether I feel like it or not. There is no half commitment with either sports or academics and I am thankful that I have had the opportunity so far to be surrounded by professors and coaches who expect a new level from me each and every day. Plus, I don’t think I would be the person I am today without all the people I have met through my time here. The facilities and campus are nice but the people in it make it come to life.
What’s the hardest conditioning you’ve ever been a part of?
If you know what a chariot sprint is… enough said.
Favorite wrestler to watch when you were younger?
That would be Thomas Gilman. That dude is as intense in person as he was on screen.
Teammate who could win on Survivor?
I got to go with Samuel West. Burlington boys gotta stick together.
What’s your favorite/dream vacation spot?
When I was a kid my grandparents would take my brothers and I on the Amtrak train to Colorado. I honestly think I could live on that train. Very much underrated.
Favorite TV Show
Squid Games
What’s it like to wrestle for Coach Van Kley?
He has instilled some of the best life lessons that I will carry with me for the rest of my life. I have always looked up to him and I look to pay him back for what he has done for me and what this team has done for me when March rolls around.
What’s your favorite part about being a member of Central’s wrestling team?
It's not a team really, because a team only spends time with each other in the practice room or if it concerns wrestling. It's a Family. We are supportive of each other and have developed relationships that will last a lifetime. We annoy each other sometimes and can get on each other's nerves but I know when it comes down to it each one of those guys has my back no matter what.
What do you hope to be doing 10 years from now?
Ten years from now I hope I am teaching and coaching somewhere out of this cold weather raising a family.
Favorite food from Central Market
I don’t care what anyone says but the jalapeno chicken pizza is a go to.
Bucket list
Make a trip around the world like my grandfather. Visit Washington, DC. Compete in a couple amateur MMA competitions. Beat Landon Kirby's cookie record at CUIFS (Its 30 cookies in one sitting).
