Central Washington University Athletics

Sanford was a 1978 National Champion with a record of 26-5-1 in the 150-pound weight class.  He earned All-American honors for his performance in 1978 as well.  He became the 13^th NAIA National Champion in CWU Wrestling history.  Each year, Pasco, Washington hosts the Joe Sanford Invitational, a youth wrestling tournament.  Following his wrestling career at Central Washington University, Sanford became a rodeo clown and was a longtime educator and wrestling coach.