Twin brothers from Bismarck to receive one of North Dakota’s most prestigious honors this October
Bismarck, North Dakota – Two of North Dakota’s most accomplished figures in wrestling will be honored this fall with the state’s highest recognition for its citizens.
Governor Kelly Armstrong announced that legendary wrestling coaches and national champion wrestlers Terry Steiner and Troy Steiner will officially receive the Theodore Roosevelt Rough Rider Award during a ceremony scheduled for Oct. 1 at the North Dakota State Capitol in Bismarck.
The twin brothers, who grew up in Bismarck and went on to earn national recognition in the wrestling world, were previously announced in March as the 51st and 52nd recipients of the prestigious award.
The Theodore Roosevelt Rough Rider Award is considered the highest honor the state can bestow upon its citizens. It recognizes current and former North Dakotans whose achievements have brought distinction to both themselves and the state.
Ceremony planned at the State Capitol
The award presentation will take place at 6 p.m. Central Time on Thursday, Oct. 1, in Memorial Hall on the first floor of the State Capitol, located at 600 East Boulevard Avenue in Bismarck.
As part of the ceremony, official portraits of the Steiner brothers will be unveiled. The portraits will later be displayed in the Theodore Roosevelt Rough Rider Award Hall of Fame, joining those of previous recipients who have made significant contributions in their fields.
The event is expected to celebrate the brothers’ accomplishments both as athletes and as influential coaches who have helped shape generations of wrestlers.
Recognizing North Dakota achievement
The Theodore Roosevelt Rough Rider Award was established during the 1961 Dakota Territory Centennial celebration. Originally, recipients were granted an honorary rank of Colonel in the Theodore Roosevelt Rough Riders.
Over time, the award evolved into North Dakota’s highest commendation for its citizens.
Recipients are selected because they have achieved national recognition in their professions while reflecting positively on North Dakota and its people. The honor is intended to recognize individuals whose accomplishments demonstrate the values, work ethic, and leadership often associated with the state.
The selection of Terry and Troy Steiner continues that tradition. Both men built highly respected careers in wrestling and coaching, earning national acclaim while maintaining strong ties to their North Dakota roots.
When the brothers receive the award in October, they will join an exclusive group of Rough Rider Award recipients whose achievements have brought honor and recognition to North Dakota on a national stage.
The ceremony will not only celebrate their success in wrestling but also acknowledge the lasting impact they have had on athletes, coaches, and the sport itself throughout their distinguished careers.
