Mike Mahalko, B.S. Food and Nutrition was a very non-traditional student while attending Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP). He was a student by day, and a professional wrestler by night, on weekends, school breaks and summer too.
After high school, Mike attended college at Slippery Rock for three years as a Health and Physical Education major. Due to his father's illness, Mike left school and went to work to support his parents. He worked at a gas station, on construction, as a police officer and also as a security guard at a Johnstown steel mill.
Being an avid weightlifter and a student in Martial Arts, Mike pursued an opportunity to attend a professional wrestling school in New Jersey. That began his career in professional wrestling. Mike wanted a career to come back to when his wrestling days were over. That is when he attended IUP.
After graduating from IUP, in order to get work experience in his chosen field, Mike accepted a therapeutic ditetician position at Mayview State Hospital near Washington, PA. Later, Mike transferred to Ebensburg Center in order to be closer to his home in Nanty Glo, PA.
While on the road wrestling, Mike began a collection of medieval weapons, swords, daggers, pole arms and armor. Due to several injuries, Mike ended his wrestling career early.
Next, Mike started a business called Joust Horses. This new venture included raising, training and barding out draft horses for medieval jousing tournaments. Traveling with Joust Horses gave Mike the idea to build a place where people could come to him instead of being on the road again. Only a castle would do to house Mike and his wife, Cathy, their Great Danes and War horses along with their extensive weapons collection, suits of armor and furniture befitting a castle.
Due to a disabling illness, Mike was forced into early retirement from his career as a dietician. It was at this time that Mike designed Dane Castle to be built on land he owned in Strongstown, PA. Mike's dream castle was completed and they moved in on September 11, 2002.
Along with being King of Dane Castle, Mike is the founder and director of Dane Castle Warrior Arts. He oversees the training of people in swordsmanship, grappling, martial arts and equestrian combat.
Anyone with an interest in medieval weapons, fighting, arts and crafts, or music is welcome to contact Mike and Cathy at Dane Castle by calling 814 749-7341.
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