High School Wrestling News # 20
1 } – Christian County Wrestling Coaching Staff Receives National Award
Robert Burnham, who led the Christian County wrestling program for 16 years before stepping down at the end of the 2019-20 season, has been named National Wrestling Coaches Association High School Boys Head Coach of the Year for the state of Kentucky. In winning the state coach of the year honor, Burnham became a finalist for the NWCA Section Two Coach of the Year Award. In addition, Burnham’s coaching staff was named the Assistant Coaching Staff of the Year for Kentucky by the NWCA. They also become finalists for the NWCA Section Two Assistant Coaching Staff of the Year Award. The Christian County High School staff consists of coaches Dee Leavell, Anthony Smith, Damien Leavell, Anthony Harris, and Anthony Adams. Christian County finished as state runner-up in 2020, setting a new school record for points scored at the state meet. The Colonels finished as runner-up in the region seven straight seasons from 2014-20. … rest of story at https://www.yoursportsedge.com/2020/06/16/former-colonel-wrestling-coach-burnham-receives-national-honor/?mc_cid=5a3eb39922&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
2 } – Nick LeClere named new Cedar Rapids Kennedy head wrestling coach – Former North Linn state champ and Coe NCAA runner-up had served as Cougars assistant
CEDAR RAPIDS — Cedar Rapids Kennedy Activities Director Aaron Stecker confirmed Wednesday that Nick LeClere is expected to be the Cougars’ next head wrestling coach, pending Cedar Rapids Community School District board approval. “The interview committee sat down and looked at Nick’s experience and his vision for the program through the transition from three to five years ago and what he wants it to look like …,” Stecker said. “We’ve seen what he’s built in our Junior Cougar wrestling program and it all just fit.” LeClere has served as an assistant on the wrestling staff for seven season and is an assistant softball coach. He worked with former wrestling coach Dennis Hynek, who resigned after last season. “I feel pretty invested in the program,” LeClere said. “I think we had it going on the right direction under Hynek’s leadership. I’m excited to keep it going.” … rest of story at https://www.thegazette.com/subject/sports/nick-leclere-named-new-cedar-rapids-kennedy-head-wrestling-coach-20200617?mc_cid=19bf6bc4f5&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
3 } – Cheesehead Apocalypse: Mulhauser, Baer & Leonard Claim titles
The Empire State sent a plethora of studs to the Cheesehead state, Wisconsin this past weekend. New York would come away with three champions and eight more place finishers. 2020 NYS champion Carter Baer of Gouverneur went 4-0 at 155lbs. Two of his wins came via fall, followed by an 11-1 major decision and a 6-3 win over Kaleb Burgess of Palmyra Macedon. Burgess had three convincing wins 9-2, F3:34 & 7-0 en route to the finals. Baer and Burgess battle this past season at states with Baer winning 6-1. … rest of story at https://www.newyorkwrestlingnews.com/news_article/show/1110300?mc_cid=825569db34&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
4 } – High School Courage Award winner has a new fan in Olympic wrestling champion Jordan Burroughs
Had the world not been turned upside down by a pandemic, maybe Olympic champion Jordan Burroughs would have chatted with Dathan Wickson Jr. for a moment or two, taken a couple of photos with the high school wrestler. Instead, Burroughs has been able to really get to know the teenager and learn his story – a story Burroughs believes the whole world should hear. “You might not see yourself as a leader, you might not see yourself as a motivational individual. But your story is inspiring and when people hear it, they’re going to love it,” Burroughs told Wickson on Thursday morning. “And they’re going to want to be their best because they’ve watched you be your best. “You’ve got big things ahead of you, my man.” Wickson is the recipient of the Courage Award, which he’ll receive Thursday night during the on-demand presentation of the USA TODAY High School Sports Award show. … rest of story at https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/2020/06/18/usa-today-high-school-sports-awards-show-jordan-burroughs/3215453001/?mc_cid=46983272fd&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
5 } – Detroit Catholic Central’s wrestling record-filled dynasty stands alone By Jared Purcell | japurcell@mlive.com
Over the last decade, the Detroit Catholic Central wrestling program has put itself into the argument of being the greatest wrestling program of all time. Thanks to claiming eight state Division 1 championships in the last 11 seasons — not forgetting the seven team titles between 1969 and 1988 — Catholic Central has put together an unmatched culture of dominance that the Metro Detroit area has never seen in the sport. … rest of story at https://www.mlive.com/highschoolsports/2020/06/detroit-catholic-centrals-wrestling-record-filled-dynasty-stands-alone.html?mc_cid=4a8eea0a01&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
6 } – Trib HSSN boys athlete of the year: Pine-Richland’s Spencer transforms from star QB to champion wrestler
It’s not uncommon for Pine-Richland’s Cole Spencer to be heavier in the fall than in the winter, a transformation that takes him from standout quarterback to champion wrestler. His accomplishments, however, loom large year round. As a junior, Spencer ranked third among all WPIAL passers last fall with 2,994 yards. He tossed 36 touchdowns and led the Rams to the WPIAL Class 6A finals. It was his second season as the team’s starting quarterback, following in the footsteps of former Rams stars Ben DiNucci and Phil Jurkovec. With Spencer as a starter, the team’s record is 21-5. He earned first-team all-state honors and was picked for the Trib 25. … rest of story at https://tribhssn.triblive.com/trib-hssn-boys-athlete-of-the-year-spencer-transforms-from-star-qb-to-champion-wrestler/?mc_cid=7ba10e0d72&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
7 } – Wrestling coaches bracing for a season filled with changes
If there is a high school wrestling season this winter, it’s almost a guarantee it’ll be like no season before it. Could there be a chance wrestlers will have to wear some kind of protective device on their face during matches? It’s probable the prematch and postmatch handshakes will become a thing of the past. And it’s almost a guarantee there will be some massive change in how practice rooms and matches are sanitized. … rest of story at https://www.morningjournal.com/sports/wrestling-coaches-bracing-for-a-season-filled-with-changes/article_11e54228-b7e1-11ea-9bbb-1f7651832a1e.html?mc_cid=12f1229b4b&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
8 } – Laser focus still hallmark for Justin Zeerip, an all-time wrestling great in Michigan
By Scott DeCamp | sdecamp1@mlive.com
Justin Zeerip was perfect in his high school wrestling career at Hesperia. His 260-0 overall record, 203 career pins and four-straight Division 4 state championships placed him at the top of the heap in Michigan High School Athletic Association lore and he maintains those lofty positions in the record books. His consecutive wins and career pins also have held strong as national records since his graduation from Hesperia in 2007. … rest of story at https://www.mlive.com/highschoolsports/2020/06/laser-focus-still-hallmark-for-justin-zeerip-an-all-time-wrestling-great-in-michigan.html?mc_cid=4a8eea0a01&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
9} – Easton used to be the gold standard in high school wrestling | Letter By Express-Times Letters to the Editor
I have never been a fan of Easton Area High School wrestling but have long been an admirer of their program for more than 60 years. I befriended former Nazareth Hall of Fame wrestling coach Ray Nunamaker when he was appointed to the position. Nunamaker decided to go head-to-head with Easton every year he coached. He often said he needed to beat Easton, which was the gold standard for high school wrestling anywhere in the country. He felt he had not achieved his desired goal and success until he did. … rest of story at https://www.lehighvalleylive.com/opinion/2020/06/easton-used-to-be-the-gold-standard-in-high-school-wrestling-letter.html?mc_cid=4a8eea0a01&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
10 } – Tim Roberts, NWCA National Boys Scholastic Coach of the Year – SOW6 by Jason Bryant
Episode 6 of State of Wrestling by the NWCA talks to Dundee (Mich.) High School head coach Tim Roberts. Earlier this month, Roberts was named the NWCA’s National Boys High School Coach of the Year. Roberts led Dundee to the 2019-20 Division 3 state team championship and also crowned seven individual state champions. Roberts has put Dundee on the map both within the state and the region, winning 12 team state championships. He’s been the head coach for the past 21 seasons and has been on the bench at his alma mater for 30 years. … rest of story at http://www.mattalkonline.com/podcast/state-of-wrestling/tim-roberts-nwca-national-boys-scholastic-coach-of-the-year-sow6/?mc_cid=4a8eea0a01&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
Women’s Wrestling News # 42
1 } – High school extra: Girls’ wrestling state tournament applauded locally
Wrestling is in Michaela Dykes’ blood. But it wasn’t any of Dykes’ male family members who encouraged her to take up the sport in fifth grade. It was Dykes’ grandmother. Not a surprise considering Dykes’ mother is Michelle Gilbert. Google her name and one will stumble upon a 1991 Chicago Tribune article discussing a then-24-year-old Gilbert’s ventures in the U.S. Women’s Amateur Wrestling Federation. “I really liked it and was good at it,” said Dykes, a senior-to-be at Gibson City-Melvin-Sibley. “I picked it up really fast because I was messing around with my uncles and cousins and stuff before I really got into the sport.” Dykes is far from the only high school female wrestler in the area or state these days. It’s more common now than when Gilbert was grappling. That was further proven this past Monday when the IHSA Board of Directors approved the creation of a girls’ wrestling state tournament beginning in the 2021-22 school year. Dykes will be a Falcons alumna by the time that date rolls around, but she’s still excited to witness the future of girls’ wrestling in the state. “I’m happy the sport’s growing and more people are seeing it as its own thing,” Dykes said, “and that it’s becoming bigger and more popularized and more normal. … rest of story at https://www.news-gazette.com/sports/high-school-extra-girls-wrestling-state-tournament-applauded-locally/article_4aa2a39b-ff27-5618-bc30-0e628dbdc9e2.html?mc_cid=73ac0bc782&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
2 } – Southern Oregon Univ. WOMEN’S WRESTLING ADDS 21 SIGNEES
After an extremely successful first season as SOU’s Women’s Wrestling head coach, Joel Gibson is adding 21 recruits to the 2020-21 roster.
ASHLAND, Ore— After an extremely successful first season as SOU’s Women’s Wrestling head coach, Joel Gibson is adding 21 recruits to the 2020-21 roster. “We’ve got a lot of returning talent and a very talented group of recruits, so we’re really looking forward to the upcoming season,” Gibson said. “We had our sights set on a national title and the expectation is the same for this year. This team is going to be very eager to get a chance to prove itself at the end of the season.”
Gibson will also be leading SOU men’s program in the 2020-21 season.
The complete group of signees is below:
JULIANNAH BOLLI | SAN JOSE, CA
Silver Creek High school | WT: 191
Notable: Two-time prep All-American and three-time California state placer
MIA BONOTAN | BENECIA, CA
Benecia High School | WT: 109
Notable: Three-time California state qualifier … rest of story at https://www.kdrv.com/content/sports/SOU-Womens-Wrestling-adds-21-signees-571477271.html?mc_cid=9af16a3b6d&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
3 } – WIAA APPROVES GIRLS STATE INDIVIDUAL CHAMPIONSHIP FOR 2021-22, BECOMING 27TH STATE WITH GIRLS WRESTLING
The wrestling community is celebrating an announcement from the Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletic Association, which will host a WIAA Girls Wrestling State Individual Championships in 2021-22. This makes Wisconsin the 27th state to approve an official state high school girls championships or make girls wrestling an emerging sport, or began the process to making girls wrestling a sanctioned sport. That means that more than half of the state associations among the 50 U.S. states now have girls wrestling … rest of story at https://www.teamusa.org/USA-Wrestling/Features/2020/June/24/Wisconsin-approves-girls-wrestling-becoming-27th-state?mc_cid=9af16a3b6d&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
4 } – Sally Roberts and Julia Salata talk about the next steps for women’s college wrestling
On June 17, the next major step towards an official NCAA championship in women’s wrestling was made. The NCAA Division I Council approve Acrobatics & Tumbling and Women’s Wrestling as Division I emerging sports. Earlier this year, NCAA Division II and Division III approved women’s wrestling for Emerging Sports Status. On Episode 608 of the Short Time Wrestling Podcast, we visit with Sally Roberts and Julia Salata of Wrestle Like A Girl, one of the main driving forces into moving women’s wrestling forward on the college level. We’ll explain exactly what the next steps are for women’s wrestling among NCAA schools, … rest of story at http://www.mattalkonline.com/podcast/short-time/sally-roberts-and-julia-salata-talk-about-the-next-steps-for-womens-college-wrestling/?mc_cid=4a8eea0a01&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
5 } – #WOMENSWEDNESDAY: LIFE U HEAD COACH ASHLEY SWORD ON COACHING COLLEGE WOMEN, BEACH WRESTLING AND MORE
By Gary Abbott, USA Wrestling | June 24, 2020, 12:15 p.m. (ET)This week, we visit with Ashley Sword, head coach of the women’s wrestling team at Life University. Ashley was a National Team athlete for USA Wrestling, went into “the real world” for awhile, and got back into wrestling as a coach for women’s wrestling at the college level. Ashley talks about her experience leading a college women’s program and how to get more women into wrestling coaching positions. She explains the experience her Life athletes went through when the NAIA Nationals got cancelled. She also talks about representing the USA at the first World Beach Games in Qatar … rest of story at https://www.teamusa.org/USA-Wrestling/Features/2020/June/24/WomensWednesday-Ashley-Sword-interview?mc_cid=9af16a3b6d&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
6 } – North Allegheny becomes first WPIAL high school to add girls wrestling program
The full story at https://www.post-gazette.com/sports/hsother/2020/06/24/north-allegheny-first-wpial-high-school-girls-wrestling-program-dan-heckert-massimo-curry/stories/202006240145?mc_cid=4a8eea0a01&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
7 } – Girls’ wrestling finding foothold in Delaware
CAMDEN — Makenna Dolt is a pretty competitive kid. The Caesar Rodney High freshman had to be to make the Riders’ starting lineup in wrestling. But when she took the mat against rival Smyrna last January, somehow the result seemed secondary. “I didn’t really care if I was going to win or lose,” said Dolt, “because I knew that being the first girl I wrestled in a varsity match, it was going to be a big deal.” Indeed, Dolt’s match against the Eagles’ Lindsey Elder may have been the first high school varsity wrestling match between two females in state history. But wrestling organizers around the state are determined to make sure it’s not the last such match. Now with a foothold in the sport, they’re convinced that they can make girls’ wrestling a bigger part of the state’s athletic landscape in the next few years. … rest of story at https://delawarestatenews.net/sport/girls-wrestling-finding-foothold-in-state/?mc_cid=12f1229b4b&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
8 } – TOM’s Quarant-Interview with Limestone Signee Evie Berrington
TOM recently had the pleasure of speaking with Evie Berrington, a multi-faceted talent that has traveled much of the Northern Hemisphere pursuing a career in the music industry. Evie just started officially wrestling in 2018 and jumped into the deep end with her competition. We won’t spoil anything but trust us, Evie has some incredible stories about her world travels, her musical career, wrestling, and her outlook on life. At the end of the interview, Evie tells us about her upcoming trip from Washington state to Limestone College, where she has signed to wrestle and major in biology. … rest of story at https://news.theopenmat.com/womens-wrestling/toms-quarant-interview-with-limestone-signee-evie-berrington/78345?mc_cid=c0a731c968&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
9} – Gannon Women’s Wrestling Announces 16 Signees Joining Program In 2020-21
ERIE, Pa. — Looking to continue the rapid rise of the program, Gannon women’s wrestling coach Christen Dierken announced the signees set to join the program for the 2020-21 year. The 16 newcomers will all be freshmen when the 2020-21 season kicks off in the fall. “Gannon women’s wrestling is thrilled for this strong start to our third year as a program,” Dierken said. “We have rising upperclassmen now with some experience under their belts, and a strong incoming freshman class. We have several heavy hitters, and young adults with strong moral character. We are also very proud to have such a diverse team with young women from across the country who will help strengthen and empower one another.” The Golden Knights made a big jump in just their second year of competition last season … rest of story at https://gannonsports.com/news/2020/6/25/womens-wrestling-announces-16-signees-joining-program-in-2020-21.aspx?mc_cid=c0a731c968&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
10 } – (Nevada) NIAA CREATES GIRLS INVITATIONAL ALONGSIDE NEVADA BOYS STATE MEET, BECOMING 28TH STATE WITH GIRLS WRESTLING
By Gary Abbott, USA Wrestling
The Nevada Interscholastic Activities Association (NIAA), in its recent Board of Control meeting, approved a Girls Wrestling Invitational to be held alongside its Boys State Wrestling Championships, beginning next season. The organization issued the following statement today: “The Nevada Interscholastic Activities Association’s Board of Control approved, during its regularly-scheduled summer season meeting, having a girls (specific / standalone) wrestling invitational during the traditional state meeting. Details of how many qualifiers — and how girls will qualify for their invitational — and how many weight classes will be determined at a later date. The NIAA is committed to the advancement of high school girls wrestling as a sport in the Silver State and will work cohesively with directors and coaches to include as many participants as possible in this invitational.”
— Donnie Nelson, Assistant Director, NIAA.
This makes Nevada the 28th state to approve an official state high school girls championships or make girls wrestling an emerging sport, or began the process to making girls wrestling a sanctioned sport. The state associations with girls wrestling (alphabetically) are: Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Kansas, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Washington, Wisconsin … rest of story at https://www.teamusa.org/USA-Wrestling/Features/2020/June/29/NIAA-adds-girls-wrestling-invitational-to-become-28th-state?mc_cid=7ba10e0d72&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
College Coaching Changes # 2
TDR Editor’s Notes ; News from Stanford felt like a kick in the gut. Hopefully it will not become a trend. It is hopeful that the sports will have one more season which opens the possibility for wrestling fans to seek support and generate a campaign to change the school’s decision.
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1 } – ‘Heartbreaking day’ – Stanford drops 11 sports, including wrestling, to cut costs
Stanford was already facing some difficult financial choices as it tried to support one of the nation’s largest athletics departments. The coronavirus pandemic forced a dramatic and painful decision: Faced with a nearly $25 million deficit next year, Stanford became the first known Power Five school to eliminate athletic programs because of the pandemic, announcing Wednesday that 11 of its 36 varsity sports will be shuttered next year. The school will discontinue men’s and women’s fencing, field hockey, lightweight rowing, men’s rowing, co-ed and women’s sailing, squash, synchronized swimming, men’s volleyball and wrestling after the 2020-21 academic year. Stanford also is eliminating 20 support staff positions.
“As you can imagine this has been a heartbreaking day for all of us, especially with those student-athletes and coaches involved,” athletic director Bernard Muir said. “We came to this decision only after exhausting all other viable alternatives. It recently became painfully clear we would not remain financially stable and support 36 varsity sports at a nationally competitive level, which is what we desire.” The pandemic shut down sports in March, including the massive revenue-generating NCAA basketball tournaments. With no March Madness, the NCAA was short $375 million scheduled to be distributed to its member schools, which are already facing questions about enrollment levels and tuition shortfalls. … rest of story at https://www.swxrightnow.com/stories/2020/jul/08/stanford-drops-11-sports-including-wrestling-to-cu/?mc_cid=fc895bba88&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
2 } – Rice’s Tanner Gardner, a Stanford wrestling alum, says program’s demise ‘devastating’
Stanford wrestling provided Rice athletics chief operating officer Tanner Gardner an opportunity to grow and expand. By the time his five-year collegiate career ended, he’d transformed into the program’s first three-time All-American. Gardner is 12 years removed from his Stanford graduation, but after Wednesday’s announcement that the school will discontinue wrestling and 10 other varsity sports programs at the conclusion of the 2020-21 academic year, he felt a jolt of the same shock that thousands of athletes experienced when precautions to slow the spread of COVID-19 ended their collegiate athletic careers. … rest of story at https://www.houstonchronicle.com/texas-sports-nation/college/article/Tanner-Gardner-Rice-Stanford-wrestling-15395488.php?mc_cid=fc895bba88&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
3 } – Former Anoka wrestler Tyler Eischens blindsided when Stanford drops wrestling, 10 other sports
Former Anoka state champion reeling as Stanford drops program, 10 other sports. Tyler Eischens was at home in Andover late Wednesday morning, wrapping up lunch, when the news blast hit: Stanford announced it was discontinuing 11 varsity sports in response to growing financial challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Among those teams being eliminated is Eischen’s wrestling squad, after he went 21-9 as a redshirt freshman last season and qualified for the NCAA tournament. “We had no clue,” Eischens said. “We got an e-mail this morning that said there is an athletic meeting in about 20 minutes. That’s when the coaches first knew. We had a Zoom meeting, and that’s when the news dropped. I’m just in disbelief, shock. I don’t know what to think.” Stanford’s decision to drop 11 sports comes as colleges … rest of story at https://www.startribune.com/former-anoka-wrestler-eischens-disbelief-shock-at-stanford-dropping-program/571681812/?mc_cid=fc895bba88&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b&refresh=true
4 } – UChicago wrestling team will not compete in fall semester
The University of Chicago wrestling team, along with all fall and winter sports, will not compete in the fall semester, the school announced. A letter was sent by Rosalie Resch, Interim Director of Athletics and Recreation. … letter and rest of story at https://intermatwrestle.com/articles/23766?fbclid=IwAR3vuvDJMrtjGlFplKeaDaOLcc3EIO2fxDWmgQZuugO2EL7S1BH5uJf_h-E
5 } – Ivy League Outlines Intercollegiate Athletics Plans; No Competition In Fall Semester
PRINCETON, N.J. — Amidst continuing health and safety concerns due to the global COVID-19 pandemic, the Ivy League Council of Presidents has set in place plans for intercollegiate athletics activity in the upcoming fall semester.
With the safety and well-being of students as their highest priority, Ivy League institutions are implementing campus-wide policies including restrictions on student and staff travel, requirements for social distancing, limits on group gatherings, and regulations for visitors to campus. As athletics is expected to operate consistent with campus policies, it will not be possible for Ivy League teams to participate in intercollegiate athletics competition prior to the end of the fall semester.
Practice and other athletic training opportunities for enrolled student-athletes will be permitted provided they are structured in accordance with each institution’s procedures and applicable state regulations. … rest of story at https://pennathletics.com/news/2020/7/8/baseball-ivy-league-outlines-intercollegiate-athletics-plans-no-competition-in-fall-semester.aspx?mc_cid=fc895bba88&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
6 } – An open letter to the Stanford community and the Stanford Athletics family
One of Stanford’s great sources of pride is our intercollegiate athletics program. Over the course of our storied history, through innumerable days of challenge, triumph and joy, our student-athletes have set the standard for exceptional achievement in both academics and athletics. Cheering on the Cardinal is an integral part of life at Stanford, and the commitment and dedication of our student-athletes serve as an inspiration for fans and followers well beyond The Farm. As you may know, Stanford currently offers more varsity sports than nearly every other Division I university in the nation. Our goal is to provide excellent support and a world-class experience for our student-athletes in the sports that we offer. Over time, however, providing 36 varsity teams with the level of support that they deserve has become a serious and growing financial challenge. … rest of story at https://news.stanford.edu/2020/07/08/athletics/?mc_cid=fc895bba88&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
7 } – Ben Rosen named new Lakeland head men’s wrestling coach
Ben Rosen, an accomplished coach and competitor, has been named Lakeland’s new head men’s wrestling coach. He comes to Lakeland from Campbellsville University, an NAIA-member institution in Campbellsville, Ky., with a very successful men’s wrestling program. He has served as a full-time assistant coach for the past two seasons. This past winter, the team finished 21-2 overall and was seventh at the NAIA Championship with five All-Americans. It’s the 16th year in a row the program has placed at the NAIA Championship. In his first season as an assistant, he helped lead the Tigers to earn one Mid-South Conference Championship and two NAIA All-American honors. Off the mat, he was extensively involved in recruiting, event management and he managed/created the wrestling program’s social media platforms. “Wrestling has been a long road and I cannot tell you how thrilled I am that it has led me to Lakeland University,” Rosen said. “Lakeland is a fantastic institution and I’m excited to be a part of it. … rest of story at https://lakelandmuskies.com/news/2020/7/8/07-08-20MWRRosen.aspx?mc_cid=fc895bba88&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
8 } – Interview with Morningsides new Assistant Coach Colton McCrystal
Newly hired Colton McCrystal is headed to Morningside as assistant to Jake Stevens. Colton prepped at Sergeant Bluff-Luton where he was a four time finalist and two time state champion. He then went on to the University of Nebraska, Lincoln where he was a two time NCAA qualifier. He was also a gold medalist at the Pan American games in 2019. … rest of story at https://www.thepredicament.com/2020/07/interview-with-morningsides-new-assistant-coach-colton-mccrystal/?mc_cid=35441de679&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
9} – ERICKSON TO BE HEAD COACH OF HASTINGS COLLEGE WRESTLING PROGRAM
(Hastings, Nebraska) – Former University of Nebraska-Kearney Assistant Wrestling Coach and current business entrepreneur Josh Erickson will be joining Hastings College this fall as its head men’s wrestling coach. Erickson has spent the last year rebuilding the wrestling program at Alma High School (Nebraska). He will be the fourth head coach in the Broncos wrestling programs’ 13 year history since the program was restarted in 2008-09. “When I got the call to offer me the job, I felt like it was a dream come true,” Erickson said. “I felt like all the effort and energy I’ve put into building athletic teams and other organizations has prepared me for this one opportunity.” Erickson brings many different leadership qualities to this position as he developed and subsequently operated Team Concepts for the past 11 years. His familiarity with Hastings College stems from Team Concepts assisting with leadership skills for the campus on numerous occasions. As an organization Team Concepts purpose is to facilitate public speaking, corporate training and team building for organizations of all shapes and sizes. He leads a successful team of presenters and staff. “Josh Erickson undoubtedly brings the leadership qualities Hastings College is looking for in a head coach,” … rest of story at http://www.hastingsbroncos.com/article/3461.php?mc_cid=35441de679&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b#.XxTTHChKhPZ
10 } – North Idaho College wrestling season pushed to January
The lone college wrestling team in the region – North Idaho College – plans to have an upcoming season. It just won’t start at its usual time. The National Junior College Athletic Association recently announced it will begin wrestling matches on Jan. 20 and pushed the NJCAA championships in Council Bluffs, Iowa, to April 23-24. NIC, which has won 14 national team championships, typically begins its season in early November. In an effort to help curb the coronavirus pandemic, junior college wrestling teams will be given one month of fall practice in October before beginning official practices on Jan. 1. The 2020 NJCAA championships in March were one of the few sports in the country to finish a national tournament before the pandemic halted athletics days later. … rest of story at https://www.spokesman.com/stories/2020/jul/07/north-idaho-college-wrestling-season-pushed-to-jan/?mc_cid=35441de679&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
College Wrestling News # 103
1 } – Coping & Connecting: Wrestling
MOUNT PLEASANT, Mich. – Landon Pelham took up distance running. Drew Hildebrandt made two camping trips out west. Others took jobs. All dealt with it.
The timing of the quarantine triggered by COVID-19 could not have been more cruel to the Central Michigan wrestlers, who in early March were days from departing Mount Pleasant for Minneapolis and the crescendo of their season, the NCAA Championships, when everything shut down.
“It was extremely disappointing for me,” said Hildebrandt, a junior who was later named a First Team All-American by the National Wrestling Coaches Association. “I was heartbroken. … rest of story at https://cmuchippewas.com/news/2020/6/17/coping-connecting-wrestling.aspx?mc_cid=19bf6bc4f5&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
2 } – NJCAA COVID-19 update – The Path for 2020-21 Sports
Charlotte, NC – As the 2020-21 academic and athletic year approaches, the NJCAA has released a plan of action for the fall and winter sports season in response to COVID-19. The NJCAA National Office, along with the NJCAA Health and Safety Council, has also issued a list of safety protocol recommendations for member colleges during regular season competition and championship events.
Fall 2020 Sports Season
At this time, the NJCAA will proceed with fall championship sports beginning practice and competition as planned. For the following sports, the start date for practice will be August 1, 2020, and the first competition date will be August 20, 2020: … rest of story and details at https://www.njcaa.org/general/2019-20/releases/20200616eut4zh?mc_cid=46983272fd&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
3 } – #142 Anthony Rink – On D3 NCAA’s being canceled hours before the event was slated to start
BOUT THIS EPISODE
Anthony Rink is a Division 3 All American for North Central College. He was a senior this year and was at the D3 nationals set to compete in his first NCAA national event when the tournament was cancelled due to CV19. I wanted to have Anthony talk about his experience and share his incredible perspective. Enjoy it! … rest of story and podcast at https://wrestlingchangedmylife.com/rink/?mc_cid=73ac0bc782&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
4 } – Team came first at Millikin for ex-East Peoria wrestler
Evan Betz left his mark on the revived Millikin University wrestling program, mostly off the mat.
“Evan was in and out of the lineup during his entire career here,” said Millikin wrestling coach Ryan Birt. “That happens when you have 50 or more guys on a team and just 10 weight classes,” Birt said. “Evan could have been a starter in a lot of other collegiate wrestling programs, but he stuck with us and was a great teammate.”
Betz was indeed a great teammate. And a great role model. The 2015 East Peoria graduate was a two-time winner of the Millikin wrestling program’s Team Player of the Year Award and a two-time team co-captain. He also was a three-time College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin Academic All-Conference honoree, and Millikin’s male recipient in 2019-20 of the CCIW’s Merle Chapman Leadership Award, which honors student-athletes for their loyalty, enthusiasm, leadership and sportsmanship, and commitment to academic, athletic and personal excellence. On the mat, Betz’s signature moment at Millikin was a 3-2 win over future NCAA Division III All-American Wyatt Wriedt of Loras on Dec. 14 in a 285-pound match. … rest of story at https://www.pekintimes.com/sports/20200622/team-came-first-at-millikin-for-ex-east-peoria-wrestler?mc_cid=825569db34&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
5 } – Written Senior Perspective – Hunter Ladnier, Wrestling
“The 2020 Senior Perspectives is the 15th in a series of annual collections. Senior captains and representatives of teams at Harvard have been invited to contribute viewpoints based on personal experience from both their senior seasons and full varsity careers at Harvard.”
Hunter Ladnier Hometown: Rocky River, Ohio
Concentration: Economics House Affiliation: Pforzheimer
Coming in as a freshman you often hear from your Deans that the Harvard experience is not confined to that of the classroom; the Harvard experience is in the people around you. That is, the transformative experience that is synonymous with four years at Harvard is not found exclusively in the solving of a complex equation, but rather, it is in the surrounding of oneself with some of the most ambitious and curious individuals on this planet. As a senior, reflecting back upon my journey – the defeats, the dragons slain and the lessons learned – it is immediately apparent the truth in those words and how lucky I have been to be surrounded by my teammates on the wrestling team and to have had my Harvard experience defined by being a member of that team. It is hard to imagine who I would be without the lessons, challenges and self-discovery that occurred every day from 3pm-5pm in the Malkin Athletic Center. Though it has decidedly resulted in some of my highest highs and lowest lows, being a student athlete at Harvard has instilled in me a value & relationship-oriented foundation that I hope to continue to build upon in the coming years. … rest of story at https://gocrimson.com/news/2020/6/23/written-senior-perspectives-written-senior-perspective-hunter-ladnier-wrestling.aspx
6 } – OHIO STATE WRESTLING HEAD COACH TOM RYAN REFLECTS ON KEVIN RANDLEMAN
On May 16, former Ohio State wrestler and standout MMA fighter Kevin Randleman was posthumously announced as an inductee to the UFC Hall of Fame by UFC president Dana White. “Kevin Randleman was one of the first real athletes in the early days of UFC,” White said in a statement. “He was a two-time NCAA Division I National Champion and All-American wrestler at The Ohio State University. He was the fifth heavyweight champion in UFC history and one of the first athletes to successfully compete at both heavyweight and light heavyweight. “He was a pioneer of the sport and it’s an honor to induct him into the UFC Hall of Fame Class of 2020.” While the recognition was for Randleman’s pro career – which started in the UFC in 1999 before a move to Pride Fighting in 2002 and saw Randleman accumulate a 17-16 record, including a heavyweight title at UFC 23 and title defense at UFC 26 – much of his best work was done in Columbus.
Nicknamed “The Monster,” Randleman won two NCAA titles as a Buckeye at 177 pounds in 1992 and 1993 (the first Buckeye to claim two titles), and was named an All-American three times on his way to 108 career wins. It was during his time at Ohio State where Randleman developed into one of the most feared wrestlers on the planet, an unstoppable athlete with a legendary work ethic … rest of story at https://www.buckeyesports.com/ohio-state-wrestling-head-coach-tom-ryan-reflects-on-kevin-randleman/?mc_cid=73ac0bc782&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
7 } – David T. Bender Trust Donates $4 Million to Create Endowed Rutgers Athletic Scholarships
Gift 30 years in the making will enhance university’s ability to recruit more outstanding student-athletes in Olympic sports
A $300,000 bequest by the estate of a school teacher who was a star Rutgers lacrosse and football player nearly a century ago has grown into a $4 million gift to endow scholarships for student-athletes who compete in eight Olympic sports.
The scholarships will enhance Rutgers’ ability to recruit top student-athletes in men’s lacrosse, golf, soccer, and track and field; wrestling; and women’s tennis, gymnastics, and field hockey and make the university even more competitive among its Big Ten® peers. The gift from the David T. Bender Trust—which also provided an investment learning opportunity for students at Rutgers Business School–Newark and New Brunswick—is one of the largest in Rutgers Athletics history. David Bender, who graduated from Rutgers College in 1925, was a 1924 All-America lacrosse player, a football letterwinner, and a coach at Rutgers until World War II. He later was a history teacher at Rahway High School in New Jersey. During his time at Rutgers, the Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, native was a tackle and center on the famed 1923 and 1924 football squads, which posted identical 7-1-1 records. Bender’s achievements led to his induction into the Rutgers Football Hall of Fame and the establishment in 1947 of the David Bender Trophy, awarded each year to Rutgers’ top offensive and defensive linemen. “Mr. Bender wanted to pass on his love of being a Scarlet Knight, and because of his generosity and keen investments, his impact has grown exponentially,” said Carly Northup, senior associate athletic director for development. “Eight endowed scholarships will give us a significant boost in competing with our Big Ten peers.” … rest of story at https://support.rutgers.edu/news-stories/david-t-bender-trust-donates-4-million-to-create-endowed-rutgers-athletic-scholarships/?mc_cid=9af16a3b6d&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
8 } – Ravaged by injuries, Mizzou’s Leeth not ready to hang up singlet
Full article at https://www.stltoday.com/sports/college/mizzou/ravaged-by-injuries-mizzous-leeth-not-ready-to-hang-up-singlet/article_ed34009a-1002-553f-b690-43d34de66f4d.html?mc_cid=12f1229b4b&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
9} – Success Continues for Football & Wrestling Alumnus Blackburn as he Enters the BW Hall of Fame
By: Director of Athletic Communications & Public Relations Kevin Ruple
BEREA, Ohio – For virtually his entire life, “duces have been wild” for Michael “Mike” Blackburn. And, this fall, the 2020 and two-time Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) Division II State Wrestling Coach of the Year will return to his alma mater, Baldwin Wallace University, to be inducted into its Alumni Athletic Association Hall of Fame fittingly for being a two-sport Division III standout in football and wrestling.
But that is just a small part of Blackburn’s story.
His First Priority is His Family and his son Braden
Blackburn and his 14-year-old son, Braden, live with he and his girlfriend, Kristi [Gotschall], and her son, Harley, in Wintersville, OH. Mike and Braden live every day with the challenges of autism. It is a blessing and also constantly demanding. Blackburn, who has a long beard and teaches and coaches football and wrestling in nearby Steubenville, gives a smile and said, “I am blessed and challenged every day and I love Braden. I love Harley for making him one of the boys. “When Braden accomplishes a goal it’s a wonderful thing to see,” continued Blackburn. “He is the sweetest person you could ever meet, and Kristi keeps me grounded through all of this. Thank God for her and her love for both of us. Autism is a big part of our lives every day, but Braden is not treated differently than any other teenager. “We recently lost my father, and that was hard on him to lose his grandfather,” said Blackburn. “Braden realizes that his pap is not around, and he doesn’t understand he’s not with us anymore. Braden is dealing with this loss with such maturity, and I’m so proud of him.”
Blackburn’s Roots Began in Football and Wrestling
Blackburn’s burning love and desire for the sports of football and wrestling made him a legend Wintersville and at Indian Creek High School and then at BW and now as a coach for The Big Red at Steubenville Senior High School. … rest of story at https://www.bwyellowjackets.com/general/2019-20/releases/blackburn?mc_cid=7ba10e0d72&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
10 } – Iowa State wrestling great Kyven Gadson partners with Cyclone wrestler’s mother to help at-risk youth
The idea had been there for some time for Erica Andorf and Kyven Gadson. The pair knew they wanted to do something impactful — and do it together. What exact form it would take and when they might be able to begin, well, that was the part they couldn’t quite nail down. Then, though, the coronavirus pandemic hit, and Andorf, the mother of current Iowa State wrestler Marcus Coleman, lost her job. Meanwhile, Gadson, a 2015 national champion wrestler at Iowa State, saw his Olympic ambitions pushed back a year with the Tokyo games postponed to 2021. In that space of time and crisis, the duo created what they hope can be a beacon for at-risk young people, first in the Ames community and then perhaps throughout Iowa with the Be R.A.R.E Initiative, which aims to “promote healthy social and emotional learning patterns in youth through creative outlets.” The duo hopes to turn the initiative into a mentorship program that will help pair kids with adults that can help them tap into their talents — wherever that may be. … rest of story at https://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/sports/college/iowa-state/cyclone-insider/2020/06/30/iowa-state-wrestling-great-kyven-gadson-partners-cyclone-wrestlers-mother-help-risk-youth/3285033001/?mc_cid=7a484e7dde&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
Carolinas Colleges News # 9
1 } – Citadel dismisses longtime wrestling coach
The Citadel has decided not to renew the contract of longtime wrestling coach Rob Hjerling, the school announced Monday. “We would like to thank coach Rob Hjerling for his hard work and dedication to The Citadel wrestling program and our college,” athletic director Mike Capaccio said. “After joining The Citadel staff for the 1999-00 season, Rob led his cadet-athletes to recognition for numerous athletic and academic achievements. We appreciate all of his contributions to our program and wish him and his family the best.” The Citadel will begin a search for a new wrestling coach, a school official said. Hjerling led the Bulldogs to two of their three Southern Conference titles in school history, taking both the SoCon championship and SoCon dual championship in 2014. He was named SoCon coach of the year twice, in 2004 and 2014. … rest of story at https://www.postandcourier.com/sports/citadel-dismisses-longtime-wrestling-coach/article_a4a55c60-af3f-11ea-a38b-232c88ef5ae5.html#:~:text=The%20Citadel%20has%20decided%20not,athletic%20director%20Mike%20Capaccio%20said.
Background and profile at https://citadelsports.com/sports/wrestling/roster/coaches/rob-hjerling/1250
Also linked at TheOpenMat – https://news.theopenmat.com/college-wrestling-news/the-citadel-moves-on-from-head-coach-rob-hjerling/78236 and more background on Intermat https://intermatwrestle.com/articles/23705
2 } – Cody Cleveland talks about The Citadel and his coaching background – The MatBoss Podcast Ep. 57
Cody Cleveland, an All-American at Chattanooga and an assistant coach at The Citadel joins host Chad Dennis on Episode 57 of The MatBoss Podcast. Cleveland talks about his experiences coming from coaching at the high school level and moving into the college ranks, first at the Naval Academy and then at The Citadel, the Military College of South Carolina. Cleveland touches on the coaching opening at The Citadel after Rob Hjerling’s contract was not renewed and the beginnings of his coaching journey and what he learned from his coaches as an athlete that he’s been able to instill in his athletes as a coach. Cleveland also explains how The Citadel fits into the nation’s armed forces. … rest of story and podcast at http://www.mattalkonline.com/podcast/intermat/matboss/cody-cleveland-talks-about-the-citadel-and-his-coaching-background-the-matboss-podcast-ep-57/?mc_cid=da10187ca8&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
3 } – CAROLINA WRESTLING Q&A: WHAT MAKES A GREAT TEAMMATE
An extended time away from the wrestling mat has given Tar Heel wrestlers an opportunity to recharge and reflect on their accomplishments from the past season.
As the down time continues, we recently asked several members of the Carolina Wrestling program the following question: What makes a great teammate?
Below, hear from both coaches and student-athletes on the aspects and value of a great teammate.
Josh McClure, R-Sr., 157 pounds
“I think the most important thing about being a good teammate is from sun up to sun down, … rest of story at https://goheels.com/news/2020/6/29/carolina-wrestling-q-a-what-makes-a-great-teammate.aspx?mc_cid=7ba10e0d72&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
4 } – Gonser joins Campbell wrestling staff
BUIES CREEK, N.C. – Former All-American Noah Gonser has joined Campbell’s wrestling coaching staff as Director of Operations and Recruiting Coordinator. Working under first year head coach Scotti Sentes, Gonser will coordinate the daily operations, administrative functions and recruiting travel for the program. “I’m excited to start this new chapter and join a great coaching staff that builds champions on and off the mat,” said Gonser. “I’m going to attack this with the same mindset that I did as a wrestler, but … rest of story at https://gocamels.com/news/2020/7/6/gonser-joins-wrestling-staff.aspx?mc_cid=097a633e42&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
5 } – Group still fighting for ECU swimming, but also giving
The fight to get to the bargaining table on behalf of East Carolina’s discontinued swimming and diving teams is ongoing, with an organized group raising funds from alumni and others for the last two weeks and even running a television spot to support the cause of somehow bringing the teams back. Like many universities nationwide, ECU, facing financial turmoil both before and amid the ongoing COVID-19 … rest of story at https://www.reflector.com/sports/college/group-still-fighting-for-ecu-swimming-but-also-giving/article_30f24d61-532c-5a8d-bae2-ddb7c57994d4.html?mc_cid=73ac0bc782&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
6 } – A.S.U. Hall of Fame to Add Five Inductees
BOONE, N.C. — App State Athletics and the Former Athletes Association are excited to announce the 2021 Hall of Fame class.
Because of the coronavirus pandemic, there will be no Hall of Fame class or induction ceremony in 2020.
The next class, which will be inducted on a yet-to-be-announced date in 2021, is made up of Bob Allsbrook (men’s tennis, 1979-83), Katie Boyd (softball, 2008-11), Mark LeGree (football, 2007-10), George Sansone (wrestling, 1966-69) and Malcolm Styers (men’s track and field, 2007-11).
This will be the 46th class in the history of the App State Athletics Hall of Fame.
GEORGE SANSONE (Wrestling — 1966-69)
All-American in 1968 and two-time national qualifier … Will be honored posthumously … Fifth place in the 123-pound weight class at the NAIA national championship tournament in Alamosa, Colo., in 1968 … Career record of 45-11 in college … Four-year starter at 123 pounds while helping App State post a combined team record of 37-10-2 during his time with the Mountaineers … Wrestled for coach Steve Gabriel at App State … rest of story at https://appstatesports.com/news/2020/7/8/athletics-hall-of-fame-to-add-five-inductees.aspx?mc_cid=fc895bba88&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
7 } – Getting to Know @PackWrestle: Excited to Start
RALEIGH, N.C. – Meet the new freshman class of the NC State Wrestling team. Hear what they are most excited for as they start their Wolfpack careers. … rest of story at https://gopack.com/news/2020/7/8/wrestling-getting-to-know-packwrestle-excited-to-start.aspx?mc_cid=fc895bba88&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
8 } – Queens Wrestling Signs Six For 2020-21 Season
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Queens University of Charlotte head wrestling coach Rob Tate announces the addition of six newcomers to his 2020 recruiting class. Alec Baynard, Lucas Comroe, Daniel Duffy, River Griffith, Wesley Sharpe, and Josh Voelkel are set to join the Royals in the fall. “We keep gaining increasingly more accolades with each incoming class and this one is no exception,” said Tate. “We’re excited to continue to build our program with exceptional young men who can come in and contribute immediately and I cannot wait to see what this group can do together.”
Alec Baynard | 149/157 lbs | Naples, N.C. | West Henderson High School
Baynard remains in North Carolina after competing for West Henderson High School where he is the programs all-time winningest wrestler with 170 career victories. He was a four-time NCHSAA State Championship qualifier and finished his senior year with a runner-up finish after posting a 48-5 overall record. Baynard also wrestled for the North Carolina National Team.
Lucas Comroe | 141/149 lbs | Gypsum, Colorado | Eagle Valley High School
Comroe comes across the country to the Queen City after completing one of the most decorated prep careers at Eagle Valley High School. Comroe is the only wrestler in Eagle Valley’s history to place four straight years … rest of story at https://queensathletics.com/news/2020/7/6/mens-wrestling-queens-wrestling-signs-six-for-2020-21-season.aspx?mc_cid=097a633e42&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
9} – Wrestling with COVID: How Rumble on the Rooftop’s safety failures could guide future events
By almost all accounts Rumble on the Rooftop, a series of matches held on a Chicago rooftop and wrestling’s first public event since the COVID-19 pandemic hit the U.S. in March, was a success with regard to the matches and the sport. But that’s not the full story.
The event was also being watched closely as an example of how wrestling could return while keeping athletes, coaches, fans and staff safe from coronavirus transmission. In that regard, even Bryan Medlin, the head coach of the Illinois Regional Training Center and a key player in organizing the wrestling component of the event, admitted there were problems. “There might have been some failures, but this is something to build on,” said Medlin. “The organization made a noble effort to make sure the event was as safe as possible.” … rest of story at https://intermatwrestle.com/articles/23730?mc_cid=7a484e7dde&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
10 } – Coach Popolizio makes a summer appearance – NCS68
Coach Pat Popolizio finally gets back to his own podcast and host Brian Reinhardt is here for the #PackMentality Pop-Ins Podcast. We’re getting a lot of questions today regarding the season for 2020-21, but before we get to that, we’re getting an update on the beard. … rest of story at http://www.mattalkonline.com/podcast/pack-mentality/coach-popolizio-makes-a-summer-appearance-ncs68/?mc_cid=35441de679&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
Where is Wrestling City, USA?
TDR Editor’s Note : As a wrestling fan what is your view? One could also ask “Where is Wrestling City, North Carolina?” Many cities with a strong college team could claim this title such as Boone, Chapel Hill or Raleigh. Greensboro with the HS State championships, Super 32 tournament, several strong HS teams and Greensboro College would be the clear choice if UNCG still had a program as they brought in events. What do you think? +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Where is Wrestling City, USA?
The answer changes based on time and place. Tulsa, Oklahoma, and Waterloo, Iowa, could lay claim to the title at various points but they have not maintained the wrestling traditions that made them world-class. Today, there are several cities that have a legitimate argument. Here are eight contenders.
Colorado Springs, Colorado
Colorado Springs will always be in contention as long as USA Wrestling and the Olympic Training Center are headquartered there. At any given time, the highest density of elite wrestlers resides within its borders. Depending on the season, the best wrestlers in the United States from all three styles converge in one place for World team training camp. USA Wrestling also has the Elite Accelerator Program (EAP), the resident athlete program, and the Air Force Regional Training Center. The Springs houses the World Class Athlete Program (WCAP) for military personnel and several youth wrestling clubs coached by former USA Wrestling National Team members. High school wrestling is decent, and they have a Division I program with the Air Force Academy, but Colorado Springs is missing the rabid college wrestling fan base that other cities on this list have.
Columbus, Ohio
The new Ohio State wrestling facility proves that Columbus is serious about making a push as Wrestling City, USA. The Buckeyes won an NCAA championship in 2015 and they are arguably the second-best wrestling program over the past decade behind Penn State. The Ohio Regional Training Center was on the cutting edge when it was formed and high school wrestling within the state is excellent.
Fargo, North Dakota
Fargo is the dark horse on this list. Yes, they have a Division I program with North Dakota State, but it’s one tournament in July that places them in contention: Junior Nationals. High school wrestlers from around the country converge in one place to test their mettle and to trade singlets outside the Fargodome. The city is so deeply embedded in wrestling vernacular that Junior Nationals is simply known as “Fargo.”
Iowa City, Iowa
You could mention that the University of Iowa has won 23 NCAA team championships or that Dan Gable built the Hawkeyes into a dynasty or that Carver-Hawkeye Arena averaged over 10,000 fans for dual meets this season or that the Hawkeye Wrestling Club advanced wrestling or that several major events — including the past two Olympic Trials and the 2018 World Cup … rest of the story at https://www.trackwrestling.com/tw/PortalPost.jsp?postId=785461135&fbclid=IwAR1yRjkw_yvAJVblr5_Uf07J5_rwMpwhTUVTbtEp772dZ6mVgzMu7dCPKjo
College Recruits & Transfer # 2
1 } – Ottawa University WRESTLING SIGNS THREE FOR 2020-21
OTTAWA, Kan. – The Ottawa University men’s wrestling program is pleased to announce the additions of Christian Ray, Tyler Johnson, and Jacob Roberson to its 2020-21 recruiting class. Ray is from Winfield, Kan. and is a transfer from Central Christian College in McPherson, Kan. He attended Winfield High School. Ray had a record of 4-15 as a freshman at CCC, competing in the 125 pound weight class. At Winfield High School, he lettered in wrestling and soccer. Ray placed fifth in 2018 and sixth in 2019 at the Kansas 4A State Wrestling Tournament. He is the son of Mike Ray and Michelle Thomas and plans to major in graphic design. Johnson hails from Olathe, Kan. and attended Olathe South High School. He was a three year letterman in wrestling for the Falcons. Jonson earned a Kansas State Championship in free style in 2019 and placed fourth at the 2019 Kansas 6A State Tournament. He was a three-time Kansas 6A State Tournament qualifier and twice qualified for nationals. Johnson is the son of Brad and Toni Johnson and plans to concentrate on general studies before deciding on a major. Roberson is from St. Louis, Mo. and is a transfer from Labette Community College. … rest of story at https://www.ottawabraves.com/article/mens-wrestling/mens-wrestling-signs-three-for-2020-21?mc_cid=e0ec51354d&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
2 } – TOM’s Recruiting News 6/7
This past week saw a pair of top-100 wrestlers from the Class of 2021 go off the market. The highest-ranked was #57 Drew Roberts (Coeur d’Alene, ID), who has given a verbal to the University of Minnesota. Drew rolled through the field in Idaho to claim the second state title of his career. The first came as a freshman while competing in Oregon. He also was third in Washington in his sophomore year. Drew is the son of two-time University of Oregon All-American Kevin Roberts, a long-time DI assistant coach. Within the last year, Drew has taken eighth in Junior freestyle in Fargo and seventh at the Walsh Ironman, while competing at 138 lbs. Roberts also captured a title at Idaho’s toughest in-season tournament, the Rollie Lane Invitational. Drew finished the year ranked third in TOM’s Rocky Mountain Rankings. The younger Roberts is another cog in what appears to be a monster recruiting Class of 2021 for Brandon Eggum’s Gophers. His team already has verbal’s from four top-100 recruits (#37 Vance Vombaur, #38 Bennett Tabor, Roberts, #82 Tagen Jamison) and also #124 Gabe Nagel. We’ll have to see how these weights shake out because Roberts and Vombaur both competed at 138 last season, while Jamison was at 132. If one or more of them could make 133 lbs, it would be beneficial as there is less, young-talent in Minneapolis at that weight, compared to 141. The second top-100 recruit who committed … rest of story at https://news.theopenmat.com/high-school-wrestling/toms-recruiting-news-6-7/78148?mc_cid=afb6e864d0&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
3 } – Gibson Announces V.M.I. Wrestling Recruiting Class
Gibson Announces 2020-21 Wrestling Recruiting Class
LEXINGTON, Va. – VMI head wrestling coach Jim Gibson announced the program’s incoming recruiting class Monday for the 2020-21 season, with 13 newcomers in the group. “I am very excited about the addition of the next group of Keydet wrestlers,” said Gibson. “Not only is this an accomplished group on the mat, but they have excelled in the classroom as well.”
“They are going to raise the competitiveness of the practice room, and have the ability to make an immediate impact for us.” … full list and story at https://vmikeydets.com/news/2020/6/8/gibson-announces-2020-21-wrestling-recruiting-class.aspx?mc_cid=1ad1a557de&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
4 } – Iowa State wrestling lands class of 2021 commitment from Conor Knopick
Iowa State Head Coach Kevin Dresser landed another big addition to his 2021 recruiting class with the commitment from Millard South’s rising-senior Conor Knopick (Omaha, Nebraska). According to MatScouts, Knopick is listed as the No. 29 overall recruit and is ranked No. 11 at 132 pounds for the 2021 recruiting class. This marks Iowa State’s second commitment for the 2021 class, with Erie Cathedral Prep’s Paniro Johnson (Erie, Pennsylvania) committing to the Cyclones back in December. … rest of story at https://www.iowastatedaily.com/sports/iowa-state-lands-committment-from-millard-south-conor-knopick-kevin-dresser-paniro-johnson-matscout/article_af3df0f2-aa8e-11ea-b860-0bf6400c011c.html?mc_cid=54d8473a59&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
5 } – Mines Adds Nine In 2020 Wrestling Class
GOLDEN, Colo. – Colorado School of Mines wrestling will add nine new recruits – eight freshman and one graduate transfer – to its roster for the 2020-21 season. The two-time defending RMAC champions added depth across multiple weight classes, especially at the middle weights. Head Coach Austin DeVoe drew recruits from six states, including two each from Colorado, Illinois, and California, as well as freshmen from Oregon, Kansas, and Texas. Mines will welcome a graduate transfer in Zach Krause, a two-year captain at Brown University, while also signing freshmen Garrett Bakarich, Daniel Caddy, Malachi Contreras, Tristin David, David Leck, Wyatt Lewis, Christian Lopez, and Noah Rupp. Mines will return starters at seven weight classes next year, … rest of story at https://minesathletics.com/news/2020/6/11/mines-adds-nine-in-2020-wrestling-class.aspx?mc_cid=d457d68b82&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
6 } – DI Council extends recruiting dead period in all sports
Division I dead period will continue through Aug. 31
June 25, 2020 By Michelle Brutlag Hosick
The Division I Council extended the recruiting dead period in all sports through Aug. 31. The Council met virtually Thursday afternoon. The full Council and the Council Coordination Committee will continue to review the recruiting dead periods on a regular basis. A dead period precludes all in-person recruiting. Phone calls and correspondence can continue to occur. Additionally, the Men’s and Women’s Basketball Oversight Committees indicated they are not planning to recommend any changes to the summer access model that was adopted last week, which permits institutions to begin summer countable athletically related activities in basketball beginning July 20 and may include up to … rest of story at http://www.ncaa.org/about/resources/media-center/news/di-council-extends-recruiting-dead-period-all-sports?mc_cid=4a8eea0a01&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
7 } – Northern Colorado Signs Impressive 2020 Recruiting Class
GREELEY – Troy Nickerson and the Northern Colorado wrestling coaching staff continue to build a strong program with the addition of the 2020 recruiting class. The Bears once again kept the top local talent at home, while adding in some of the top-rated wrestlers throughout the nation and a pair of transfers. “We are very thankful to have the opportunity to bring a class like this to Greeley! This class fits many needs for us and we were able to really add many pieces to the puzzle that will help us for years to come,” said Troy Nickerson, head coach. “All of these student-athletes are outstanding young men, which is of our utmost importance. Equally, they are fantastic in the classroom and understand what it means to be a student-athlete. We look forward to having this group add to our already stellar student-athlete population at UNC!” The 13 person class breaks down to eight from Colorado and one each from Nebraska, Illinois and Iowa. The two transfers come to Northern Colorado from the University of Nebraska and North Dakota State.
Johnny Blankenship, 157/165 lbs
Blankenship joins the Bears as a graduate transfer from the University of Nebraska. He compiled a 70-27 record during his Husker career. In high school, he was a two-time Missouri State Champion, … rest of story at https://uncbears.com/news/2020/7/6/wrestling-signs-impressive-2020-recruiting-class.aspx?mc_cid=097a633e42&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
8 } – Millersville announces 2020-2021 recruiting class
MILLERSVILLE, Pa. – The Millersville wrestling team and head coach Kerry Regner has announced the recruiting class for the upcoming 2020-2021 season. The group consists of 11 incoming freshmen and they join a young roster that includes nine sophomores, eight juniors, and zero seniors.
Guy DeLeonardis
Knoch High School
Projected weight: 165 pounds
Accomplishments: 3x WPIAL qualifier, PIAA state qualifier
Kerry Regner on DeLeonardis: “Guy should be an immediate impact at the middleweights for Millersville. An all-around athlete with a big motor. Another freshman who has yet to even see his ceiling let alone reach it. He is a young man who has all the attributes you want to see your children have. A quality young man who will be sure to push himself and love his teammates.” … rest of story at https://millersvilleathletics.com/news/2020/6/25/wrestlingrecruits.aspx?mc_cid=4a8eea0a01&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
9} – Evans looks to Penn State future
Wrestler Dave Evans has decided to turn in his Tiger stripes for Nittany Lion blue and white. The recent Tunkhannock Area graduate will be a preferred walk-on to the storied program in Happy Valley under legendary coach Cael Sanderson. “I am really excited to be coached by one of the best coaches and wrestlers in history,” said Evans. “I’m eager to learn from him and excited for this year coming up.” Evans will study orthopedic medicine at Penn State University, whose wrestling program has won eight of the last nine NCAA titles. “Both their academics and athletics are the best for me. I’m going into the medical field and their program is great for my interests,” he explained. “And the athletics are one of the best in the country. Learning from them is going to make me the best wrestler I can be.” Evans added, “Pennsylvania is one of the best states for wrestling. … rest of story at https://www.wcexaminer.com/sports/evans-looks-to-penn-state-future/article_f86e52ae-331a-546c-bbc0-95d43dd71105.html?mc_cid=24498831e8&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
10 } – Bloomsburg Adds 15 Newcomers For Upcoming 2020-21 Season
BLOOMSBURG, Pa. – Bloomsburg University head wrestling coach Marcus Gordon has announced his recruiting class for the upcoming 2020-21 campaign. A total of 15 newcomers – 13 freshmen and two transfers – will join the Huskies’ roster.
Bloomsburg is coming off of its first season in the Mid-American Conference (MAC) and had two NCAA qualifiers in redshirt senior Trevor Allard (Mexico, N.Y./Mexico) and sophomore Alex Carida (Hackettstown, N.J./Hackettstown). The two national qualifiers marked the most for the program in one season since the 2013-14 campaign when the Huskies sent six grapplers to the national tournament. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Allard and Carida were unable to compete for national titles.
Gordon will be looking to fill a huge void left by Allard at 184 pounds. The senior went 24-4 this past season and finished out his brilliant career four wins shy of reaching the 100-win plateau. Also needing to be replaced are Nate Newberry (Biglerville, Pa./Biglerville) at 157 pounds, Anthony Vetrano (Middletown, N.J./Middletown North) at 174 pounds, and Kyle Murphy (Bridgewater, N.J./Bridgewater-Raritan) at 197 pounds. … rest of story at https://buhuskies.com/news/2020/7/8/wrestling-adds-15-newcomers-for-upcoming-2020-21-season.aspx?mc_cid=fc895bba88&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
Wrestling History – # 9
1 } – Hall of Fame Legends Podcast: 2019 Distinguished Member Brandon Paulson
Successful at virtually every level of his storied career, Brandon Paulson is recognized for his wrestling prowess and coaching expertise by the National Wrestling Hall of Fame as a 2019 Distinguished Member. The highlight of his wrestling career was winning the silver medal at 114.5 pounds in Greco-Roman competition at the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta. He also competed three times in Greco-Roman at the World Championships, winning a silver medal in 2001 and finishing eighth in 2002. A four-time U.S. Open champion, Paulson excelled at every age-group level of USA Wrestling, winning Cadet, Junior, Espoir and University national titles and a silver medal at the Espoir World Championships in 1993. He was an All-American at the University of Minnesota and was a three-time Minnesota high school state champion for Anoka High School. He had a career high school record of 155-12-1 and was named Mr. Minnesota Wrestling in 1992. He was named Greco-Roman Coach of the Year by USA Wrestling in 2008 … rest of story and podcast at https://theguillotine.com/2020/06/hall-of-fame-legends-podcast-2019-distinguished-member-brandon-paulson/?mc_cid=5a3eb39922&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b%E2%80%99
2 } – Lee Kemp: My Wrestling Hero
The 57th installment of My Wrestling Hero features Lee Kemp. The three-time World champion shares his thoughts on his wrestling hero: Dan Gable. These are Kemp’s words on his wrestling hero:
“When I was a young wrestler it was Dan Gable. Gable was the man that people from my generation pointed toward as the example. I was a high school sophomore when I first met him in 1972. He was my hero because he was winning, not that you have to be a guy that wins in order to admire a person, but I got to see him at camps and drill with him and a month later I got to see him win his gold medal. It all pieced together for me. Being at the camp he seemed to embody all of the different things that I was being taught by my coach and my parents —work ethic — and he seemed to have a clean lifestyle. … rest of story at https://www.trackwrestling.com/PortalPost.jsp?TIM=1592779418564&twSessionId=hyxciqaxaq&postId=783112135&mc_cid=73ac0bc782&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
3 } – Teyon Ware: My Wrestling Hero
The 58th installment of My Wrestling Hero features Teyon Ware. The Wyoming assistant and two-time NCAA champion shares his thoughts on his wrestling hero: Kenny Monday. These are Ware’s words on his wrestling hero:
“Growing up, my wrestling hero was Kenny Monday. He’s from Oklahoma and he was the main black wrestler that I saw and I heard about. I knew about him being an Olympic champion and being a four-time state champion. He was who I saw and the kid who started out at the eastside YMCA, all the coaches talked about was Kenny Monday. … rest of story at https://www.trackwrestling.com/PortalPost.jsp?TIM=1592779418564&twSessionId=hyxciqaxaq&postId=783193135&mc_cid=73ac0bc782&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
4 } – Evolution Of Wrestling Shoes
Over the years, wrestling shoes have evolved. Whether you like a split or a full sole, there are plenty of options to pick from. In addition, a number of some of our greatest champions and biggest stars have been lucky enough to have a signature shoe. And thanks to a number of new brands that seem to be throwing their hat in the ring of designers, we’re getting more options all the time. One of the latest designs is the one coming with Reece Humphrey’s wild style attached to it. … rest of story at https://www.flowrestling.org/articles/6752959-evolution-of-wrestling-shoes
5 } – National Team members reflect on the importance of Juneteenth
BY MIKE WILLIS, USA WRESTLING | JUNE 19, 2020,
Today is Juneteenth, a holiday that commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. While President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation which took effect on January 1st, 1863, in the midst of the Civil War, the confederate states kept people enslaved until 1865.
On June 19, 1865, two months after the official end of the Civil War, Union forces occupied Galveston, Texas. Union general Gordon Granger announced the emancipation of all remaining slaves. The 13th amendment to the Constitution was ratified on December 6, 1865 abolishing all slavery.
Below, some of our U.S. National Team members give their thoughts on the significance of Juneteenth: … rest of story at https://www.teamusa.org/USA-Wrestling/Features/2020/June/19/National-Team-members-reflect-on-the-importance-of-Juneteenth?mc_cid=46983272fd&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
6 } – Chris Pendleton: My Wrestling Hero
The 60th installment of My Wrestling Hero features Chris Pendleton. The two-time NCAA champion from Oklahoma State and new Oregon State coach shares his thoughts on his wrestling heroes: Mark Branch and Pat Smith. These are Pendleton’s words on his wrestling heroes:
“I think the easy one would be John Smith because John’s John Smith. There’s not much more anybody needs to say or can say. But for me personally as development as a young man and as a wrestler, it was definitely Pat and Branch. They were my assistant coaches. They were the ones that probably helped me on a day-to-day basis more than anybody realizes. “Branch was like an older brother to me and he’s still a really good mentor and friend, and he taught me a lot about the lifestyle part of wrestling and how to be responsible and do the things you’re supposed to do, how to come in and be a professional, and at the same time, be able to step away from wrestling and turn your brain off and enjoy life. … rest of story at https://www.trackwrestling.com/PortalPost.jsp?TIM=1592972221424&twSessionId=utwmqfzlap&postId=783345135&mc_cid=da10187ca8&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
7 } – David Carr: My Wrestling Hero
The 62nd installment of My Wrestling Hero features David Carr. The 2019 Junior World champion and 2020 Big 12 champion for Iowa State shares his thoughts on his wrestling heroes: his father, Nate.
These are David Carr’s words on his wrestling hero:
“My wrestling hero would be my dad (Nate) because he showed me a lot and taught me a lot and made me fall in love with the sport of wrestling. I wouldn’t be where I am today in the sport of wrestling as a man without my dad, so that’s why he’s my wrestling hero. “The first thing he taught me was whether you win or lose, win or lose with respect. Always be a good sport and always learn from your losses … rest of story at https://www.trackwrestling.com/PortalPost.jsp?TIM=1593141626680&twSessionId=adqutrtezq&postId=783471135&mc_cid=4a8eea0a01&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
8 } – Barry Davis: My Wrestling Hero
The 65th installment of My Wrestling Hero features Barry Davis. The three-time NCAA champion, three-time World and Olympic medalist and former Wisconsin coach shares his thoughts on his wrestling hero: Dan Gable. These are Davis’ words on his wrestling hero:
“I would say Dan Gable. It started back in 1972 watching the Olympic Games. He was from Iowa. I was from Iowa. He was undefeated. No points scored on him. I wanted to be just like this guy. “I was 11 years old and I just started wrestling at the YMCA at that time with my older brother, Brian. The Olympic Games is the highest level of anything. As a kid, everybody watched the Olympic Games, and I watched the Olympic Games at the YMCA … rest of story at https://www.trackwrestling.com/PortalPost.jsp?TIM=1593398555189&twSessionId=fafhsifgyc&postId=783562135&mc_cid=9f83ba1bc8&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
9 } – Yianni Diakomihalis: My Wrestling Hero
The 64th installment of My Wrestling Hero features Yianni Diakomihalis. The two-time NCAA champion and two-time Cadet World champion shares his thoughts on his wrestling heroes: John Smith and nine-time World and Olympic champion Buvaisar Saitiev. These are Diakomihalis’ words on his wrestling heroes:
“As a wrestler, I looked up to John Smith a lot. I loved Smith and Saitiev. I always thought Smith was cool. He revolutionized wrestling. He changed the sport so much, and I liked his approach to it. It was very focused on having good skills and he was tough, but for him being tough was part of the sport just by nature, and then he won matches because of his skill and creativity to come up with something new and be able to effectively do it against everyone in the world. … rest of story at https://www.trackwrestling.com/PortalPost.jsp?TIM=1593316456911&twSessionId=kwltoxzgbg&postId=783541135&mc_cid=12f1229b4b&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
10 } – Champions Across Generations: ’86 Tigers Get Company as Title, Award Droughts End
As the 2020 Princeton wrestling season achieved some of its peak moments, the year 1986 seemed to come up again and again. First win over Cornell since 1986. First Ivy title since 1986. First Ivy League Wrestler of the Year since 1986. That the 2020 team’s achievements were first-in-a-long-time but not first-ever tells you that Princeton has had wrestling success in its history. It doesn’t tell you much about the gap in between, but those who were with the program in ’86 and every other year know about the journey. They know that the 2020 achievements didn’t come from a team that just happened to find the right combination. They know that all the 2020 Tigers had to celebrate was the result of a long climb that none of them expect has seen its peak. David Crisanti ’86 spent 34 years as the last Tiger to win the Ivy League’s Wrestler of the Year honor. He and his teammates spent 34 years as the last Tigers to win an Ivy League title, a drought rare at Princeton, which has seen now 36 programs, with wrestling, win a league title since 2000. Crisanti’s 1986 EIWA title, the second of his career, was Princeton’s sixth in a 10-year span since 1977. It came during a 24-year run, from 1966-89, in which Princeton had at least one wrestler place (top eight) at the EIWAs every year and had 92 place-winning finishes over that time. It remains the longest place-winning streak in program history, ahead of a 20-year run from 1925-44. … rest of story at https://goprincetontigers.com/news/2020/6/20/wrestling-champions-across-generations-86-tigers-get-company-as-title-award-droughts-end.aspx?mc_cid=4a8eea0a01&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
College Coaching Changes
1 } – Ellsworth Names Tyson Springer New Head Coach
Ellsworth Panthers are excited to welcome Tyson Springer as the new head wrestling coach and Dale Howard Family Activity Center Director. Springer comes to ECC from Hastings College in Hastings, NE, where he served as the head wrestling coach for three seasons. “This was a very different process as it was all done virtually over Zoom, but it was an easy decision to come to Ellsworth. I was sold on the ECC tradition.” The tradition of Panther success may be strong, but Springer recognizes the challenges of this unprecedented time. “It’s really the challenge of the unknown. I’m going to be recruiting athletes to a place I’ve never been, but Ellworth’s history speaks for itself.” Springer says he’s going to hit the ground running by making phone calls and sending out emails as soon as he is able. “There are many high school athletes who haven’t made their decision yet because of the pandemic. … rest of story at https://portal.nwcaonline.com/articles/NWCA_News/Ellsworth-Names-Tyson-Springer-New-Head-19-6-2020
2 } – Aurora University selects Pearch to lead men’s and women’s programs
Aurora University announced the hiring of Justin Pearch as the Head Coach of the Aurora University men’s and women’s wrestling programs. He was selected to build both programs with the men’s program returning to AU following an over three decade hiatus and the women’s program being new as it is among the NCAA’s emerging sports. The AU men’s and women’s wrestling teams will take to the mat and begin competition in the 2021-2022 season, becoming AU’s 23rd and 24th collegiate sports.
“For the first time we completed a job search remotely and even with this alteration, the best candidate for the position was easily recognized. Justin Pearch is the ideal wrestling coach to start the women’s and men’s programs,” said Director of Athletics Jim Hamad. “His recruiting connections and proven success in developing and instructing wrestlers is going to be beneficial in building the foundation. We expect these programs to meet the standard of excellence that has been established in the department and Justin will build AU Wrestling into a nationally recognized brand.” Pearch came to AU after four seasons as the head wrestling coach at Aurora Christian High School. In his time at Aurora Christian, the program produced an Illinois State Championship and two more two three finishes in a program that began in 2016. … rest of story at https://portal.nwcaonline.com/articles/NWCA_News/Courtesy-of-Aurora-Athletics-Link-18-6-2020
3 } – OSU Wrestling: Chandler Rogers Hired as Assistant at Arkansas Little Rock
Pistols Firing has learned that former Cowboy and two-time All-American Chandler Rogers has been hired as an assistant coach at Arkansas Little Rock by another former Cowboy, Neil Erisman. The Oklahoma State coaching tree continues to grow and improve as Rogers, who was formerly the Director of Operations at the Air Force Academy has accepted an assistant coaching position at Little Rock. Rogers, who was coached by Erisman at Stillwater High School, will now be coaching alongside him in Arkansas. Erisman is one of nine (!) former Oklahoma State wrestlers in current Division 1 wrestling head coaching positions, and Rogers will become one of a nearly countless number of assistant coaches in D1 wrestling coming from Oklahoma State. … rest of story at https://pistolsfiringblog.com/osu-wrestling-chandler-rogers-hired-as-assistant-at-arkansas-little-rock/?mc_cid=0b36b62cc1&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
4 } – Barner Named New Cleary University Wrestling Coach
(June 3, 2020 – Howell, Mich.) — Cleary University is proud to announce the hiring of new wrestling coach Greg Barner. Barner has an extensive coaching background having just recently finishing as assistant coach at Concordia University in Minnesota. Prior to joining the Cobber’s staff, Barner spent two seasons as an assistant at Simpson College after restarting the wrestling program at Northeastern Junior College as head coach. The Plainsmen program was on hiatus for 37 years before Barner guided the program to a Top25 finish with an All-American and three wrestlers participating in the NJCAA national championship meet. Prior to Northeastern, Barner was an assistant coach at Briar Cliff, where he earned his master’s degree in business administration. Barner graduated from Central College in 2014 in exercise science while wrestling for the Dutch. Barner began his collegiate wrestling career at Iowa Central Community College as he earned All-America honors and was part of two national championship teams. “I felt an immediate connection with the administration at Cleary,” Barner said. … rest of story at https://portal.nwcaonline.com/articles/NWCA_News/Barner-Named-New-Cleary-University-4-6-2020
5 } – Oregon State awards wrestling coach Chris Pendleton with a 5-year, $825,000 contract
By Nick Daschel | The Oregonian/OregonLive
Wrestling coach Chris Pendleton’s first contract with Oregon State runs through 2025 and pays an annual salary of $165,000. The contract, received through a public records request by The Oregonian/OregonLive, also includes several bonuses for athletic and academic performances. Pendleton, who replaced Jim Zalesky in April, is Oregon State’s lone head coaching hire of the past year. Zalesky was paid $155,000 during his final year at OSU. … rest of story at https://www.oregonlive.com/beavers/2020/06/oregon-state-awards-wrestling-coach-chris-pendleton-with-a-five-year-825000-contract.html?mc_cid=76bedc2d68&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
6 } – ALBION COLLEGE ADDS MEN’S AND WOMEN’S WRESTLING, ESPORTS TO ATHLETICS LINEUP
Men’s wrestling returns after four decades and will compete in MIAA; all three sports scheduled to begin competition in 2021-22 academic year.
June 23, 2020
Albion College President-Elect Mathew Johnson has announced the Albion College Athletic Department will bring back men’s wrestling after a more than 40-year absence as well as add women’s wrestling and esports. All three are expected to begin competition for the 2021-2022 academic year. “Albion College is always striving to provide a great educational experience, and athletics is part of that experience,” said Dr. Johnson, who was a high school and college athlete. “With men’s and women’s wrestling as well as the rapidly growing esports, Albion will provide more opportunities for all those students who wish to participate.” The additions will bring to 24 the number of varsity sports sponsored by Albion — 12 for men and 12 for women. … rest of story at https://www.albion.edu/news-and-events/recent-news/news-archive/14883-albion-college-adds-mens-and-womens-wrestling-esports-to-athletics-lineup?mc_cid=9af16a3b6d&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
7 } – The College of New Jersey Cancels Wrestling in Fall Semester
Kathryn A. Foster, the president of The College of New Jersey, laid out the school’s plans for reopening this fall in an online letter today. Along with information about the semester schedule and modifications due to COVID-19 was information that certain sports would not compete during the fall semster: Regrettably but necessarily, and in alignment with our rationale and actions in instruction, residential education, and other operations, I have decided that for health and safety reasons we will restrict the menu of in-person student activities this fall to low human density and low in-person contact or proximity activities only. This means that we will cancel high human density, high in-person contact or proximity extracurricular activities, including performance ensembles (e.g., music, theater), many events and gatherings of clubs and organizations, and all high-contact varsity, intramural, and club athletics scheduled for fall semester (including football, soccer, field hockey, basketball, wrestling, rugby, dance, and cheerleading). Coaches and trainers may arrange workouts and other individual fitness activities. … rest of story at https://www.d3wrestle.com/tcnj-cancels-wrestling-in-fall-semester/?mc_cid=c0a731c968&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
8 } – Central Valley Conference in California suspends fall athletics, affecting CCCAA champion Fresno City wrestling
BY GARY ABBOTT, USA WRESTLING | JUNE 27, 2020
The Central Valley Conference, a community college athletic conference in California, has suspended fall 2020 sememster athletic competition. Wrestling is a fall sport in the California Community College Athletic Association (CCCAA), and two of its wrestling teams fall within the Central Valley Conference: Fresno City College and West Hills College Leemore. Fresno City College is the defending CCCAA state wrestling champions and a dominant team in the California Junior College scene. In response Fresno City College announced they are suspending all athletics for the fall 2020 semester due to COVID-19, according to local news reports. … rest of story at https://www.teamusa.org/USA-Wrestling/Features/2020/June/27/CVC-suspends-fall-sports-affecting-wrestling-teams-in-California?mc_cid=12f1229b4b&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
Note : In regards to the entire CCCAA wrestling season, the CCCAA has announced that it will decide on their plan to move forward with the 2020-21 season on July 17. On that date, they will either go forward with their normal season (called their Conventional Plan), or go with two other plans (Contact/Non-Contact Plan or Contingency Plan). In the other two plans, wrestling would become a spring season sport for all CCCAA programs.
9 } – Quite a catch: Aurora University plucks Aurora Christian coach Justin Pearch to start men’s and women’s wrestling programs
Justin the builder is continuing to work on Aurora’s West Side, but he’s moving from the high school to college level and expanding his scope. Justin Pearch, who quickly built Aurora Christian’s boys wrestling program into a small school powerhouse, has been hired by Aurora University to head its men’s and women’s programs. AU officials this spring announced a plan to revive a men’s wrestling program that was discontinued 35 years ago and also start a women’s program. AU athletic director Jim Hamad said women’s wrestling trails only e-gaming as the second-fastest growing sport in college athletics. … rest of story at https://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/aurora-beacon-news/sports/ct-abn-spt-college-wrestling-au-justin-pearch-st-070120-20200630-ok3i63ako5dxdjbkhkvcps2ooq-story.html?mc_cid=7a484e7dde&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
10 } – Athletic Departments Cut Sports, but Wyoming Athletics Makes Adjustments to Avoid Eliminating Teams
LARAMIE — Despite financial strains created on collegiate athletic programs because of the coronavirus, the University of Wyoming has addressed the issue in a manner that will allow it to keep all 17 Division Sports. Wyoming is avoiding what many other schools are facing in terms of Olympic Sports, according to a Sports Illustrated piece by Ross Dellenger and Pat Forde that looks at the consequences schools are facing in eliminating non-profit Olympic sports.
https://www.si.com/college/2020/06/11/college-sports-program-cuts-ncaa-olympics
The firs steps in addressing Wyoming’s financial situation was when athletic Director tom Burman announced on April 4 he would take a 10 percent paycut for the rest of the calendar year, resulting in roughly a $30,000 saving, and head football coach Craig Bohl and his wife donated $100,000 to cover scholarships for seniors who had their spring sports seasons wiped out and are going to return for another year in Laramie. … rest of story at https://www.si.com/college/wyoming/around-the-mwc/athletic-departments-cut-sports-but-wyoming-athletics-makes-adjustments-to-avoid-eliminating-teams?mc_cid=9214b6001a&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4bhttps://goeclions.com/sports/wrest/2019-20/releases/20200611ft6h1l?mc_cid=9214b6001a&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
Women’s Wrestling News – # 41
1 } – [Oregon & Indiana] 2020 NWCA High School Girls Coach of the Year Awards Program
Manheim, PA – The National Wrestling Coaches Association (NWCA) is proud to announce the 2020 winners of the State and National High School Girls Coach of the Year awards. This program is in its second year and will continue to expand as the number of states sanctioning high school girls wrestling grows. To date Girls High School Wrestling is sanctioned in 26 states. States sponsoring girls championships: Alaska, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Kansas, Maryland, Massachusetts. Maine, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, and Washington.
Boys Coach of the Year Winners | http://www.nwcaonline.com/2020-nwca-high-school-girls-coach-of-the-year-awards-program/
This year’s National Girls Coach of the Year is Mike Simons from Thurston High School (OR) and the National Girls Assistant Coaching Staff of the Year represents Penn High School (IN). Simons (National and Oregon Coach of the Year) just completed his 24th season of coaching, … rest of story at http://www.nwcaonline.com/2020-nwca-high-school-girls-coach-of-the-year-awards-program/?mc_cid=76bedc2d68&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
2 } – [Florida] Arnold’s Haynes ‘excited’ about sanctioning of girls wrestling
Tuesday was a very good day for high school girls athletes around the state, as the FHSAA voted to sanction two new girls sports: sand volleyball, and wrestling. On Thursday at Arnold High School, as the Marlins introduced their new head wrestling coach Michael Allison, his only female wrestler, rising sophomore Henlee Haynes, was pretty happy to hear of the decision. “I was excited but also nervous,” Haynes said. “I’m hoping that it’s as tough of a program as the guys program that I’m currently in. I hope a lot of girls will join and it won’t be a bottom-out thing where no one joins. But I’m excited, I hope it works out.” Haynes competed for Arnold as a freshman but had to wrestle against boys. She more than held her own, posting 15 wins and qualifying for the Region 1-1A tournament. She failed to qualify for the state meet, though she did get a chance to claim an unofficial state title when she traveled to Orlando for the 2020 Florida Girls Wrestling State Championships at … rest of story at https://www.newsherald.com/sports/20200613/arnolds-haynes-excited-about-sanctioning-of-girls-wrestling?mc_cid=f75b9fce50&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
3 } – [Florida] Wrestling coaches excited by addition of FHSAA-sanctioned girls division
“The numbers over the years have been growing and growing with girls interested in the sport. What better way to get it truly going than having their own division.” Although there was some disappointment that it won’t happen until the 2021-22 school year, Polk County wrestling coaches are thrilled by FHSAA’s decision to add a girls division to wrestling. “I like it,” Kathleen coach Bing Osborn said. “I had a girl who won a girls state title, so in my 24, 25 years of coaching, it seems like I’ve always had at least one female wrestler. Nowadays, it’s a lot easier to get these girls a wrestling scholarship than the boys. I think it’s going to open up a lot more doors. Me being at Kathleen, I think it’s going to help bring a lot more girls out for wrestling.” Kathleen’s Cendessa Krus won the state title at 195 in the Florida Girls State Wrestling Tournament. Osborn has seen the number of girls wrestling either varsity or junior varsity increase over the years. Osborn’s son, Gavin, who is now the head coach at George Jenkins, had four girls in his wrestling program last season, he said. “I think it’s a great idea,” he said. “The numbers over the years have been growing and growing with girls interested in the sport. What better way to get it truly going than having their own division. A lot of people think it’s taboo for a girl to wrestle a guy, and that’s understood. Now it levels the competition and it’s girls vs. girls. It’s just going to bring more awareness to our sport.” … rest of story at https://www.theledger.com/sports/20200615/wrestling-coaches-excited-by-addition-of-fhsaa-sanctioned-girls-division?mc_cid=76bedc2d68&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
4 } – Illinois to offer girls wrestling at championship level in 2021
Illinois will adopt high school girls wrestling at the championship level when competition kicks off during the 2021-22 season. The Illinois High School Association board of directors on Monday approved a recommendation from the wrestling advisory committee to sanction an individual girls wrestling state tournament by a unanimous 10-0 vote. “I commend the Board on their vision to further the IHSA mission by continuing to seek out more participation opportunities for high school students in Illinois,” IHSA Executive Director Craig Anderson said in a statement. “Participation in high school girls wrestling has grown significantly over the past few years, and we expect this announcement will only help increase that momentum here in Illinois.” The date, location and makeup of a tournament are undecided, Anderson added. According to the National Federation of State High School Associations, 676 girls from IHSA member schools participated in wrestling last season. … rest of story at https://www.stltoday.com/sports/high-school/girls-wrestling/illinois-to-offer-girls-wrestling-at-championship-level-in-2021/article_73d4ab7c-af58-11ea-a74d-1332f15f6e14.html?mc_cid=76bedc2d68&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
5 } – Women’s Wrestling, acrobatics and tumbling added to NCAA Emerging Sports for Women program for Div. I
BY MICHELLE BRUTLAG HOSICK, NCAA | JUNE 17, 2020
Division I Council adopts legislation, joining Divisions II and III
Acrobatics and tumbling and women’s wrestling will be added to the NCAA Emerging Sports for Women program in Division I, the Division I Council decided Wednesday. The Council met virtually. Members noted that some schools already have committed to adding these sports as part of their strategic plans for athletics, and having these sports part of the emerging sports program could convince others to do the same. “The Council acknowledged the need to give maximum flexibility to schools as they make decisions surrounding sport sponsorship,” said Council chair M. Grace Calhoun, athletics director at Penn. “Acrobatics and tumbling and women’s wrestling have both done everything required to be named to the emerging sports for women list, and some schools may choose to augment their programs with these new sports.” The sports were recommended for the emerging sports program by the Committee on Women’s Athletics. The program is a pipeline supporting the advancement of women’s sports to NCAA championship status. The program also provides athletics opportunities for women and sport-sponsorship options for colleges and universities. Schools also may use an emerging sport to help meet minimum sports-sponsorship and financial aid requirements. … rest of story at https://www.teamusa.org/USA-Wrestling/Features/2020/June/17/NCAA-Div-I-adds-womens-wrestling-as-Emerging-Sport?mc_cid=19bf6bc4f5&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
6 } – Acrobatics and tumbling, women’s wrestling added to NCAA Emerging Sports for Women program
Division I Council adopts legislation, joining Divisions II and III
June 17, 2020
By Michelle Brutlag Hosick
Acrobatics and tumbling and women’s wrestling will be added to the NCAA Emerging Sports for Women program in Division I, the Division I Council decided Wednesday. The Council met virtually. Members noted that some schools already have committed to adding these sports as part of their strategic plans for athletics, and having these sports part of the emerging sports program could convince others to do the same. “The Council acknowledged the need to give maximum flexibility to schools as they make decisions surrounding sport sponsorship,” said Council chair M. Grace Calhoun, athletics director at Penn. … rest of the story at http://www.ncaa.org/about/resources/media-center/news/acrobatics-and-tumbling-women-s-wrestling-added-ncaa-emerging-sports-women-program?mc_cid=19bf6bc4f5&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
7 } – Kayla and Lee Miracle have a deep love for wrestling, Fruity Pebbles, and each other
Campbellsville head wrestling coach Lee Miracle led his daughter, Kayla, to four WCWA Championships (2015-18). The Miracles discuss their unique relationship that resulted in lots of learning and lots of love. … rest of story and podcast at https://www.trackwrestling.com/PortalPlayer.jsp?TIM=1592779418564&twSessionId=hyxciqaxaq&videoId=783100135&mc_cid=73ac0bc782&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
8 } – 10-year-old female wrestler aims for 2028 Olympics, coach says
By Joe Danneman| Updated June 22
CINCINNATI (FOX19) – A 10-year-old female wrestler who has over 100 metals is aiming for the 2028 Olympics. Lyric “The Lightning” Hetzer says she chose wrestling because she did not want to choose a sport every girl was taking up. “Well, I didn’t want to do, like, cheerleading – every girl does cheerleading. I wanted to start a boys’ sport, so I started wrestling,” Hetzer said. “I’ve been around wrestling for thirty years and there are things she does and I’m like, ‘my goodness,’” her coach, Nick Spatola, said. She pins boys on the mat – and medals on the wall. Hetzer has more than a hundred wrestling wins – and one mean pre-match mug. “I just – mostly laugh in my mind because I know that I can beat them,” Hetzer said. Hetzer dreams of making it to the Olympics, said Spatola. … rest of story at https://www.fox19.com/2020/06/20/year-old-female-wrestler-aims-olympics-coach-says/?mc_cid=73ac0bc782&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
9 } – Jess Do It: NCAA adds more opportunities for girls in wrestling
Once upon a time, a tiny Jess really wanted to play BAAA football, the Boonsboro equivalent of the Tri-County Youth Football League. With football being a constant in my life from an early age — and as the only girl on the baseball and basketball teams at times — it never occurred to me I would get told I couldn’t play football. My mom was all for it, ready to sign me up, while my dad wasn’t too keen on the idea. The desire passed, me focusing my efforts on the softball diamond, but to this day, I don’t let my dad forget that he told me I wasn’t allowed to play football. Lucky for me, the powder puff game at homecoming is a huge tradition for the Warriors, giving me a chance to get on the field, but I never really let my dad live down the fact, he’d told me no. Fast forward to 2013 when I started covering wrestling, it doesn’t take you long to notice the lack of girls in what’s basically a co-ed sport, girls welcome to join. Plenty of times over the years, I had conversations about girls in the sport, even debating if I’d allow my own daughter to participate if I ever were faced with that question. … rest of story at https://www.journal-news.net/journal-news/jess-do-it-ncaa-adds-more-opportunities-for-girls-in-wrestling/article_36558a3b-050e-50d6-a8e6-1d1bef47709e.html?mc_cid=825569db34&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
10 } – West Carteret grad Wolkerstorfer becomes first recruit for new women’s wrestling team at Greensboro College
MOREHEAD CITY — Ariana Wolkerstorfer didn’t quit wrestling in high school, and she’s not about to start now. The recent graduate shined on the mat, as well in cross country and track and field during her time at West Carteret, and figured her college future was limited to the latter two sports. She initially accepted a running scholarship from UNC-Pemboke. However, she is now the first recruit of the new women’s wrestling team at Greensboro College – the first women’s wrestling program in the state. The Division III team will hit the mat this winter. “I wanted to wrestle in college. That is what I really wanted to do,” she said. “But there was nowhere around that would allow me to do that. Everything was out of state and we couldn’t afford out of state, and I didn’t want to be that far from home. And so UNC-Pembroke was my best option.” Wolkerstorfer made a name for herself in wrestling with the Patriots as the lone girl on the team and one of only two girl wrestlers in the county. In February, she became the first county wrestler to win a state championship at the N.C. High School Athletic Association Women’s Wrestling Invitational. … rest of story at https://www.carolinacoastonline.com/news_times/sports/article_3678e7f6-b3c3-11ea-92ac-9b50fb3f3415.html?mc_cid=73ac0bc782&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b
TDR blog
After 20 seasons of publicizing wrestling The TakeDown Report’s (TDR) focus has changed to the collecting of college coaching records from North America since 1903. We will continue to recognize and reward successful wrestlers in eastern North Carolina (east of Raleigh & Fayetteville), assist with schools in starting or re-starting a team and this blog. Join us on our FaceBook Page – “The TakeDown Report” for photos and news. Please send results, stories, links and news to pass along. E-mail us at takedownreport@gmail.com
Martin Fleming, Editor
Takedown Report
