Hank Elespuru

Henry Elespuru (March 4, 1923 – January 14, 2004) was an American athlete, coach, and official who was the head boxing and wrestling coach at Sacramento State University and the referee for over 40 championship boxing matches.

Early life Elespuru was born on March 4, 1923, in Blackfoot, Idaho. Over two seasons, he compiled an overall record of 7–37. In 1952, he became the head wrestling coach and football line coach at Wesleyan University.

In 1955, Elespuru moved to Sacramento State University, where he was an assistant football and track coach and established the school's boxing program. The following year, the Sacramento State discontinued boxing following the death of Wisconsin boxer Charlie Mohr. From 1970 to 1983, he coached Sacramento State's wrestling team, during which time he developed fourteen All-Americans. He also refereed George Foreman's comeback fight against Steve Zouski.

Personal life Elespuru died on January 14, 2004 in Sacramento, California. He was survived by his wife and two children.