05/14/2026
On behalf of Amador Valley High School Athletic Boosters, we want to thank Coach Bennie LaFever for everything he did for our school, wrestling program, and community.
Coach LaFever was a proud Amador Valley graduate and competed for the Dons from 1973–1976, winning the 1976 EBAL Championship at 175 pounds and finishing as runner-up at the CIF North Coast Regionals.
His coaching career at Amador Valley High School spanned multiple eras, including 1981–1984, 1988–1999, 2018–2020, and again during the 2023–2024 season. During his time leading the Dons, Amador Wrestling compiled an outstanding 84-36-1 EBAL dual meet record and won four consecutive EBAL team championships from 1994–1997, including three undefeated league seasons. His programs also produced 53 individual EBAL champions, 48 NCS medalists, and two CIF State placers.
More importantly, Coach LaFever cared deeply about people. He invested in students academically, personally, and emotionally, always looking for ways to support athletes and families however he could. His influence extended far beyond wrestling and helped shape the lives of so many within the Amador Valley community.
Coach LaFever’s impact on Amador Valley High School and the Tri-Valley community will never be forgotten. His leadership, passion, and commitment to students created a lasting legacy that will continue for generations to come.
Our thoughts are with his family, friends, former athletes, and all those who had the privilege of knowing him.
