A Butte High legend has been hired to coach Butte Central wrestling program.

The school announced today that it is hiring 1998 Butte High graduate Eric Dunmire as its next head wrestling coach.

He brings extensive competitive experience, coaching knowledge and passion for student-athlete development to the position, the school said in a statement.

Dunmire was a four-time state champion wrestling for coach Jim Street’s Bulldogs. He then continuing his wrestling career at the University of Northern Iowa. During his collegiate career, he became an NCAA Division I National Qualifier and later earned NAIA All-American honors.

His accomplishments have also been recognized locally through induction into the Butte Sports Hall of Fame in 2017 as an individual and again in 2026 as part of the 1995 Butte High state championship team.

In addition to his competitive success, Dunmire has remained actively involved in wrestling through coaching at both the high school and middle school levels, as well as serving as an volunteer coach with the Butte Silver Bow Wrestling Club.

“We are excited to welcome Eric as the leader of our wrestling program,” Butte Central activities director Chad Petersen said in a statement. “Eric’s experience, wrestling background, and commitment to developing young people make him a tremendous fit for our student-athletes and school community. He understands the tradition of wrestling in Butte and has a strong vision for building a positive, disciplined, and competitive program.”

Dunmire replaces Andrew Holmes, who led the Maroons the past couple of seasons.

The photo of Dunmire above is from the 2024 Butte Sports Hall of Fame Green Jacket Ceremony. It was provided by Josie Trudgeon.