Mike Callahan began his wrestling career as a sophomore at Albert Lea High School. His older brother, Paul, who finished finished in the state tournament in 1952, inspired Mike to take up wrestling.

Mike attended St. Theodore’s Catholic school in Albert Lea through the ninth grade and then attended and graduated from Albert Lea High School in 1963. He is the son of Leonard and Rachel Callahan and a has 12 siblings, six brothers and six sisters.

Starting on the varsity team during the 1961-1962 season, he advanced to the state tournament at 103 pounds and finished in fourth place. During his senior year, 1962-1963 he was undefeated at 16-0 and won the 126 pound weight class weight at the state tournament. He defeated Don Mullenbach on a referee’s decision after two, one minute overtime periods. Callahan had an overall record of 54-4 during his career at ALHS.

After his graduation from ALHS, Mike attended California Poly Technical State University in San Luis Obispo, Calif. and concentrated on his studies. After six months he transferred to Austin Community College and later the University of Minnesota. Mike was on the wrestling team for a year at the University of Minnesota. After a stint in the service, he attended Albert Lea Vo-Tech from 1974 to 1976 in a two-year electrician program. After graduating he went on to work as an electrian for six years. An opportunity to teach the Electrian Construction Program was available and Callahan taught at Riverland for 26 years. During this time he taught approximately 1,800 students.

Mike has five grown children and is semi-retired. He lives on an 8-acre hobby farm located between Ellendale and Clarks Grove. Mike enjoys his horses, golf, and fishing. He still does electrian work part time.