Dan, a 1974 graduate of Southern Oregon University, was a teacher, counselor, coach, and Athletic Director at Crater from 1974 until his retirement in 2004. During his tenure as the Comets Head Wrestling Coach and subsequently Athletic Director, “Speas” and his successor Greg Haga turned Crater wrestling into the State’s most successful program.

Dan also served the Comet cause as an assistant Football and Baseball coach. From 1975 – 1979 Dan was the Head Girls Cross Country Coach, and served the same capacity for the boys squad from 1988 -1992.

Dan was a 3 time All-American while wrestling for Southern Oregon University from 1972-1974. He was named Oregon Wrestling Coach of the year in 1981, inducted into the NAIA District II Hall of Fame in 1985, the Southern Oregon University Hall of Fame in 1992, was given membership in the elite Oregon Chapter of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame.

Dan is a Co-Founder of the Crater Foundation and the Crater Scholarship Dessert Auction. Hundreds of kids seeking aid as they pursue their post high school goals have received thousands of dollars through the vision of Dan and his co-workers. Additionally, Dan organized and aided in the construction of the Crater Sports Park, housing our baseball and soccer programs.