Allen Sapora (2021) - Hall of Fame - University of Illinois Athletics

Allen Sapora

Induction:
2021

Wrestling • 1936-38

Allen Sapora joins his brother, Joe, as an Illinois Athletics Hall of Famer. Sapora was the 1938 NCAA Champion at 126 lb. and won the 1937 Big Ten title at the same weight. When he won the national championship, it marked the first time that brothers accomplished that feat with his brother Joe winning in 1929 and 1930. The Illini won the 1937 Big Ten title and placed second at the 1938 NCAA meet. Sapora served as assistant coach to Hek Kenney and went on to teach at the UI after earning his doctorate. He became a long-time official, serving at five Illinois state championship meets. Allen Sapora died in 2002 at the age of 92.