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Bernie Saggau, IHSAA director from 1967 through 2005, dies at age 96
A native of Denison, he brought the football playoffs to Iowa high schools in 1972 and the 3-point shot in 1982
May. 12, 2025 1:17 pm, Updated: May. 12, 2025 1:37 pm
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Bernie Saggau, the executive director for the Iowa High School Athletic Association from 1967 through 2005, died Friday.
He was 96.
A native of Denison, Saggau was a four-sport athlete in high school and played multiple sports at Buena Vista College. Prior to his arrival at the IHSAA, he worked as a teacher, coach, official and school administrator.
Saggau began at the IHSAA in 1963, and succeeded Lyle Quinn as executive director in 1967. He emphasized the importance of sportsmanship and using school activities to create engaged citizens.
Among his list of IHSAA achievements were the creation of the football playoffs (1972), making Iowa the first state to utilize the 3-point shot in basketball (1982) and prioritizing student-athlete health with wellness and substance abuse coordinator positions (1989).
Saggau chaired the NFHS Basketball Rules Committee for eight years, served on the NFHS Football Rules Committee for 25 years and spent time as NFHS board president in 1989-90.
During his time at the IHSAA, he officiated NCAA Division I basketball and football.
Saggau split time living in Iowa and Arizona in recent years. His family will oversee arrangements and services once finalized.
Comments: jeff.linder@thegazette.com
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