Spencer Lee’s Parents

Spencer Lee is an American freestyle and former folkstyle wrestler who competes at 57 kilograms. He was born on October 14, 1998, in Denver, Colorado.

In freestyle wrestling, Lee is a two-time US National champion (2019, 2023), a Pan American champion (2024), and a three-time age-group World champion, having won gold at the U17 level in 2014 and the U20 level in 2015 and 2016.

His performances have earned him a spot on the US Olympic team for the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, after securing qualification at the 2024 World Olympic Qualification Tournament.

In folkstyle wrestling, Lee's achievements are equally impressive. He won three NCAA Division I national championships (2018, 2019, 2021) out of the University of Iowa, becoming only the fourth wrestler in NCAA history to win three or more national titles.

Lee was awarded a five-time All-American and a two-time winner of the Dan Hodge Trophy, an award given to the nation's most outstanding collegiate wrestler. In 2020, he was also honored with the James E. Sullivan Award, recognizing him as the most outstanding amateur athlete in the United States.

Freestyle Wrestling:

Folkstyle (NCAA) Wrestling:

Who are Spencer Lee's Parents?

Spencer Lee's parents are Larry and Cathy Lee. Both were athletes themselves, with Larry serving as a former coach for the U.S. National Judo Team, and Cathy winning a silver medal at the 1991 Pan American Games in Judo.

Who is Spencer Lee's Mother?

Cathy Lee, Spencer's mother, is a former Olympic alternate judoka who won a silver medal at the 1991 Pan American Games in Havana. Cathy has been an important figure in Spencer's development as a wrestler. She appeared as a drill partner for him when he was younger, and even tapped him out with an armbar in front of his high school team during a practice session.

Who is Spencer Lee's Father?

Larry Lee is Spencer Lee’s father. He is a former U.S. National Judo Team coach.

How Did Spencer Lee's Parents Meet

Larry Lee told Hawkeye Wrestling Club, that he and Cathy had an interesting first encounter during a judo practice in France before the start of Larry's junior year in college. Cathy, a skilled judoka competing in the 99 lbs and 106 lbs weight classes, approached Larry and asked him, "Do you want to fight?" in a strong French accent.

Hesitant at first, due to Cathy's small stature, Larry agreed to spar. However, Cathy quickly showed her power by executing a throwing technique, slamming Larry to the ground and leaving him in awe of her skills. Despite this unconventional introduction, the two hit it off, and a month later, they got married.