The origin of wrestling as a sport

The History of NSU Wrestling 1



RUNNING HEAD: THE HISTORY OF NSU WRESTLING



A Project Presented to Dr. Gerald Ehli, Dr. Jeffrey Jay, Dr. Raj Markanda Northern State University



In fulfillment of the requirements of Master of Science in Education, Teaching, and Learning



Benjamin Robert Bouza 7-27-04



The History of NSU Wrestling 2 Abstract This paper is a compete history of the Northern State University Wrestling Program. The basis of this research was for the formulation of a historical overview for use by the wrestling department. Currently the wrestling program has no compiled record of the past 45 years of their existence. My goal for this research was to provide them with records, statistics, and other historical information relevant to their program. My research focused on the local media sources of the Aberdeen area. I researched newspaper articles from both the Aberdeen American News and the Northern State University Exponent. I also utilized the Northern State University yearbook, The Pasque, for my research. The last area that provided me with a basis for statistics and records was the Northern State University Sports Information Department. Through my research I compiled a complete list of All-Americans, SDIC Champions, NSIC Champions, and Academic All-Americans. I also was able to provide a list of statistical record holders. That list can be found in the appendix located at the end of the research findings.



The History of NSU Wrestling 3 Introduction The origin of wrestling as a sport dates back to before the ancient times of Egypt and Greece. Wrestling can be dated back as far as 3400 BC when it was used by the Egyptians as a past time event (Nardo, 2002). Many of the same holds and techniques that are used today are depicted in the hieroglyphics on the walls of ancient rulers’ tombs. References to the sport of wrestling appear in the earliest documentation of civilization (Marx, 1994). Wrestling was originally looked upon as a form of combat and was valued as a form of military exercise. Wrestling, since the beginning of recorded history, is a competition where two individuals compete against each other using no weapons, only their bodies and minds (Ditchfield, 2000). Soldiers of ancient times used wrestling as a form of training for the hand-to-hand combat that they would encounter in their military battles. Many rulers and kings emphasized wrestling as a measure of a man’s strength and combat ability. “The connection between wrestling moves and war was certainly distinct enough in ancient Greece, where soldiers routinely learned such moves for use in hand-to-hand combat” (Nardo, 2002, p.16). During these ancient times wrestling was seen as a brutal and often-deadly sport, it later came to take on a new meaning as a sport of skill and intelligence. The first recorded wrestling match occurred in the Olympic games of 704 BC. Wrestling was included in the few sports that were showcased the original Olympic games and has remained an Olympic event ever since. Wrestling at that time was said to be the second most popular event behind only discus throwing (Sandelson, 1991). Since the first recorded matches, wrestling came to take on it’s own form in many countries of the world. Each culture and civilization would develop their own style of



The History of NSU Wrestling 4 wrestling with it’s own rules and methods. There are many different distinct forms and styles of wrestling, each having it’s own rules and conventions. For this reason the history of wrestling is very difficult to follow (Nardo, 2002). Many of today’s styles of wrestling were developed through the combination of techniques used from various countries throughout the world. The traditional GrecoRoman style of wrestling of present day was derived from the combination of the Greek and Roman styles of wrestling (Thomas, n.d.). Many combinations were developed as countries were conquered in battle and thus many changes occurred in wrestling throughout history. The one thread that bonds all forms of wrestling however is the fact that individuals compete in close quarter combat with no weapons. The American Indians first introduced wrestling in the New World before Columbus had “discovered” the Americas (Marx, 1994). Their style much like that of the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans emphasized brute strength, was a form of combat, and was a way to prove strength and ability (Nardo, 2002). For this reason the American Indian form of wrestling never became popular. The traditional styles used today were brought over with the settlers of America from Europe and put more emphasis on skill and technique rather than brute strength. “Many of the wrestling styles and moves that flourished in early America and eventually contributed to the development of modern wrestling came from Europe” (Nardo, 2002, p.13). The colonies would have their own wrestling competitions and the individual colonies would crown a Champion. This champion would then battle other champions from other settled colonies. This was the first evidence of organized wrestling in the New World. The settlers of America also



The History of NSU Wrestling 5 brought about the first organized point system of wrestling, thus the importance of controlled moves to secure points (Timm, 2000). Many popular figures from American history were said to be avid wrestlers and fierce competitors. Abraham Lincoln was one of the first heroes of the wrestling world and was said to have gone 12 years with only a single loss. Abraham Lincoln became a local legend in rural Illinois for beating a long list of opponents in rough-and-tumble bouts (Nardo, 2002). George Washington was also a wrestler during the colonial times. He was one of the first young men to attend what is said to be the first organized wrestling school at Reverend James Maury’s Academy in Fredericksburg, Virginia. Other notable figures in history that participated in organized wrestling were Andrew Jackson, Zachary Taylor, Ulysses S. Grant, Chester A. Arthur, Howard Taft, and Theodore Roosevelt. These men and many others like them helped shape wrestling into the popular sport it is today (Timm, 2000). Wrestling was one of the few sports used during the competition of the first modern Olympic games of 1896 in Athens, Greece. “When the modern Olympics began in 1896, wrestling was one of nine sports on the agenda – an indication of its stature as a classic sport” (Marx, 1994, p.33). Wrestling along with other sports, including the field and running events, was the basis for the sports that are found today in Olympic and collegiate competition. In the present day wrestling world there are three commonly referred to styles of wrestling: Greco-Roman, Freestyle, and Collegiate (or Folkstyle). Folkstyle was developed in the United States as a modified form of the European Freestyle with variations influenced by the American Indians and early pioneers (Thomas, n.d.).



The History of NSU Wrestling 6 Significance of the Research The significance of this research is to provide Northern State University with a complete history of their wrestling team. “Historical Analysis is particularly useful in obtaining knowledge of previously unexamined areas and in re-examining questions for which answers are not as definite as desired” (Marshall and Rossman, 1989, p.95). No past studies have thus provided the school with a basic overview of what has been achieved or accomplished by the past wrestlers at Northern State University. In order for the sport of wrestling to continue to grow, and to be able to set goals, there needs to be a history of what has happened in the sport in the past. This research project will provide Northern State University with a complete history of their wrestling program from it’s beginning to the present day. Review of Literature For the purpose of this project collection has been conducted on some of the other literature compiled by other traditionally strong wrestling programs. I especially looked at how they organized their data and to what extent they compiled statistics. The two major programs that I looked at were from the University of Iowa and South Dakota State University. Both schools have had and continue to have strong wrestling programs. In looking at the data that they compiled I noticed some key factors in each. In the Iowa State University’s history of wrestling the focus is mainly on the athletes that they have had and the accomplishments that they have attained. Through this and through their sports information programs they have compiled a listing of all of the Iowa State University record holders in every possible statistical category in the wrestling realm (Marr-Hugunin and Nichols, 1986). I also saw the same characteristics in the South



The History of NSU Wrestling 7 Dakota State University wrestling history. Even though they focused their history by breaking down each year individually they also compiled statistical data related to record holders (Timm, 2000). Both programs also had an extensive listing of Conference Champions, All-Americans, and National Champions, a list that I too would like to compile through my research. Problem Statement The purpose of this project is to examine the history of Northern State University wrestling, more specifically a complete and concise record will be developed of the Northern State University wrestling program from it’s conception to present day. The purpose of this research much like all other qualitative studies “is not to prove something or to control people’s ideas but rather to take a look at the whole picture and try to gain an understanding” (Denzin and Lincoln, 2000, p.80) of the history of wrestling at Northern State University. The focus of my study will be primarily on the statistical history of Northern State University Wrestling. I will be compiling data to create a list of record holders in a number of categories. Research Design This research project will break down each individual year to look at some of the stand out athletes that competed during those times. A list will be compiled of the record holders in each of a number of individual categories, which will be broken down by season and career totals. The categories are: wins, pins, winning percentage, quickest pins, takedowns, escapes, reversals, 2-point near falls, 3-point near falls, technical falls, and overall records.



The History of NSU Wrestling 8 Along with the individual records, a list will also be compiled of team records. Included in this listing will be: dual record, coach’s records, regular season tournament placing, postseason tournament placing, and records against opponents broken down by school. To go along with the team records, will also be a listing of conference champions, All-Americans, and national champions. Throughout this research additional categories may also be added that have not been listed here. “It would be entirely appropriate, indeed recommended, for the researcher to deviate from the research proposal if an exciting and significant focus emerges from earlier data collection.” (Marshall and Rossman, 1989, p.110) In order to compile all of this data I will be looking at a number of sources. “All social phenomena need to be studied in their historical contexts. This involves the use of historical documents and written records of the past, including diaries, letters, newspapers, census tract data, novels and other popular literature, and popular culture documents. (Denzin and Lincoln, 2000, p.375) For this project historical documents will be researched including: Aberdeen American News newspapers, Northern State University Exponent newspapers, Northern State University Pasque yearbooks, past Northern State University Wrestling media guides, and other various documents from the Northern State University sports information department. Data will be compiled using Microsoft Excel spreadsheets. The spreadsheets will allow me to break down the data into easily understood categories. The spreadsheets will list records and statistics by year in different columns and rows and will easily organize the data collected. A statistical database will also be utilized which was created with Microsoft Excel (see Appendix).



The History of NSU Wrestling 9 Possible Limitations There are some obvious limitations to this research. Some of these would be incomplete records in any of the various historical documents evaluated, tainted memories by the newspaper writers and reporters, and tainted records in the various historical documents. Review will be done on many documents to sort out any discrepancies in the research but there is still room for error whenever using historical documents. The Origins of Wolves Wrestling Northern State Teachers College, later known as Northern State College, and presently referred to as Northern State University, decided in the fall of 1959 that their athletics program would be introduced to the sport of wrestling. Interest from the student population and increased popularity in the state motivated the athletic director and other members of the college to start a wrestling program at Northern State. (“Wrestling Program Charted”, 1959) The program would continue until present day and, with the exception of one instance, would be a mainstay in the NSU Athletics program. With the help of seven different coaches throughout its history, the NSU Wrestling program would grow to become a respectable program in not only the NAIA rankings but also the NCAA Division II rankings. 1959-1960 On November 14th, 1959, Don Vogt held the first ever meeting to recruit men to take part in Northern State Teachers College’s new wrestling program. The meeting was open to all male students at NSTC and athletes were enticed to take part with the offer of one hour of physical education credit. A few young men had started to work out the year



The History of NSU Wrestling 10 before in anticipation of the added sport but were not officially allowed to represent NSTC in any competitions (“Wrestling program charted”, 1959). During their first season NSTC wrestled a limited schedule of teams. The reason for this being that most schools had already set their schedules for the upcoming year and did not have the time or funds to travel to another school. The teams included on the NSTC slate for the first year were Jamestown College, South Dakota State, Black Hills Teachers College, South Dakota Tech, and a second dual with Jamestown (“Grapplers Meet Jamestown”, 1960). The first ever dual took place on January 28th, 1960 when the Wolves traveled to Jamestown to take on the Jimmies. NSTC had 12 members on its 1959-1960 team (“Varsity Wrestlers Travel”, 1960). The Wolves lineup for their first dual looked like this: 123 pounds – Larry Webb, freshman, Milbank 130 pounds – John Fiechtner, sophomore, Java 137 pounds – John Williamson, freshman, Pierre 147 pounds – Frank Seiler, freshman, McIntosh 157 pounds – Jim Skulborstad, junior, Aberdeen 167 pounds – Jim Maher, sophomore, Redfield 177 pounds – Andy Parks, freshman, Fredrickstown, MO Heavyweight – Jim Stout, freshman, Denver, CO



NSTC lost their first match ever when they were downed by a score of 24-6. Winning for the Wolves were Jim Stout and John Fiechtner. Stout’s win did not count towards NSTC’s point total however because he was ineligible to compete as a transfer student. He did win an exhibition match by fall in 8:15 over Fred Brooks. Fiechtner also won his match by fall in 5:15 over Woody Helm. NSTC had one other wrestler who did not lose his match; he also did not win his match. Frank Sieler wrestled his opponent, Joe Soulis, to a draw in their 147-pound bout (“Northern Grapplers”, 1960).



The History of NSU Wrestling 11 The rest of the season continued along the same path as NSTC dropped the rest of their duals by similar scores as the first; South Dakota State 26-7, Black Hills Teachers College 26-8, South Dakota Tech 30-8, Jamestown 24-6, South Dakota State 26-8 (“Hills Outing”, 1960). Head Coach Don Vogt felt the new wrestlers gain valuable experience and were very aggressive throughout the season (“Northern Hosts”, 1960). One highlight on the season seemed to be the performance of heavyweight Jim Stout. Stout pinned all but one of his opponents throughout the season (“Grapplers fall prey”, 1960) 1960-1961 NSTC entered the 1960-1961 season with some experience under their belt and a drive to learn more about the sport. The wrestlers started the 1960-1961 season with a set schedule that included 10 duals throughout the season. With the start of their second season the Wolves saw their first recruiting class; a class that included their first AllAmerican, Norm Neu from Redfield (“Grappler workouts”, 1960). The schedule for the year included teams from Jamestown, Black Hills Teachers, South Dakota Tech, Valley City and Huron. The first dual of the season proved to be the most memorable. The Wolves earned their first dual victory ever when they beat Black Hills Teachers by a score of 27-3. Northern won all but one of their matches on the way to the lopsided victory. Head coach Don Vogt was very pleased at the outcome and was even more impressed with the number of fans that attended the home meet (“Enthusiastic fans”, 1960). Throughout the season, Vogt relied more and more on his freshman and sophomores, with six freshmen and two sophomores filling the eight-person lineup



The History of NSU Wrestling 12 (“Grapplers triumph”, 1961). NSTC finished the 1960-1961 season with a very impressive 8-2 dual record. The year ended with the Wolves first wrestling honors. Jim Stout, a heavyweight from Denver, CO, earned the status of honorable mention AllDistrict NAIA squad. Stout ended his 1960-1961 season with an 8-1-1 record, the best record on the Wolves team (“Jim Stout, NSTC”, 1961). With the loss of only two wrestlers to graduation, Jim Skulborstad and Monte Brekke, the Wolves will look toward next season with high hopes of another successful year. NSTC also hopes to be included in the SDIC plans to include wrestling as an official sport, one where a champion will be crowned each year. Plans were already underway during the season to make those hopes a reality since a majority of South Dakota schools now boast teams (“Matmen end season”, 1961). 1961-1962 The Wolves started the 1961-1962 season with great expectations after finishing the previous year with an 8-2 dual record. Improvement would be difficult but this year would also be the first year that NSTC would be eligible for postseason competition, meaning they would be able to wrestle in both the conference and national championships. In fact, Northern would be the host of the first SDIC Conference Tournament, although it would not be official until the 1963-1964 season when all the schools in the conference could compete, and the District 12 NAIA Wrestling Tournament, a qualifying tournament for the NAIA National Championships (“Northern will host”, 1961). To start the season the Wolves notched a win over Jamestown by a score of 21-10 (“NSTC wrestlers win”, 1961). In the same weekend Northern competed in their first



The History of NSU Wrestling 13 tournament of their short career. The tournament, hosted by Valley City, saw standout Jim Stout earn Outstanding Wrestler honors with a first place finish at 191 pounds. The 191-pound weight class was only wrestled at tournaments during the 1961-1962 season (“Jim Stout shares”, 1961). The Wolves then continued in their winning ways by downing South Dakota Tech by a score of 17-9 and Southern State 34-0, who was in their first year of competition (“Mat squad blanks”, 1962). Northern State also had the opportunity to field a “B” squad during the 1961-1962 season because of an increase in wrestlers from the previous year. The “B” squad traveled to some of the surrounding schools, for instance Ellendale, ND, to take on the varsity squads and gain valuable experience (“B squad wrestlers”, 1962). The Wolves upped their record to 6-0 with two wins over Black Hills and one over South Dakota Tech in their next match-ups of the season. Northern downed Black Hills by scores of 14-12 and 18-12 and Tech 21-9. Standouts Jim Stout and Norm Neu went undefeated during the three matches to help the Wolves claim victories (“Northern matmen undefeated”, 1962). The next dual of the season saw Northern get their first loss. Valley City outlasted the Wolves in a close match, winning by a score of 15-11. The match came right down to the wire when Don Pitkin lost a close 2-0 decision in the final match, a match that could have won the Wolves the dual. Northern bounced back strong however, scoring a 21-8 win over Jamestown the next night, their second win over Jamestown during the year (“Wrestlers split”, 1962). The Wolves ended their 1961-1962 season with a 7-2 dual record, a record that was very similar to the previous year’s. After the



The History of NSU Wrestling 14 end of the dual season, Northern looked to earn their spots as SDIC Champions and try to earn a spot in the NAIA National Tournament at the District 12 qualifier. The first SDIC Wrestling championships, held in Aberdeen, was won by none other than the host school. The 1961-1962 season, only Northern’s third season, saw the Wolves win their first ever SDIC Championship. The Wolves edged out Black Hills with a win by Don Pitkin in the final match of the tournament. Winning conference championships for Northern were Dave Scott at 130 pounds, Norm Neu at 157 pounds, and Don Pitkin at heavyweight. Outstanding 177-pound wrestler Jim Stout was forced out of competition in the last match of the tournament with an injury; Stout finished in second place. Also earning second place honors was Lanny Mowry at 123 pounds. The Wolves then moved on to win the NAIA District 12 tournament in style, winning the tournament by 51 points over the next closest team, Black Hills. Four Wolves wrestlers earned first place finishes at the tournament. Champions for Northern included: Dave Scott at 130 pounds, John Williamson at 137 pounds, Norm Neu at 157 pounds, and Don Pitkin at 191 pounds (“NSTC matmen end”, 1962). Two Wolves wrestlers made the trek to the NAIA National Wrestling Tournament in Winona, MN. Dave Scott and Norm Neu each lost their first round matches to be eliminated from the tournament (“NAIA tourney won”, 1962). 1962-1963 The 1962-1963 season saw an increased interest in wrestling on NSTC’s campus. Because of the newfound interest head coach Don Vogt scheduled a preseason intersquad match up. Faculty and students alike joined the Wolves to learn more about the sport of wrestling and to have the rules and point system explained by head coach Don Vogt.



The History of NSU Wrestling 15 Some members of the team did not have the opportunity to compete as they were still playing for the Wolves football team (“Prelim exhibitions”, 1962). The success of the NSTC football team also hampered the Wolves in their first tournament of the year. Only six wrestlers competed and none placed at the Valley City event (“Matmen curtailed”, 1962). Northern opened their 1962-1963 dual season on January 10th when they hosted Jamestown in a dual meet. The strong Wolves team, who went 7-2 the year before, downed the Jimmies by a score of 22-6. This match saw the appearance of Jim Stout for the first time during the season. The outstanding 177-pound wrestler was questionable for competition due to a knee injury sustained during the football season. He did wrestle however, and won his match by a score of 11-3 to help lead the Wolves to victory (“Wolves overwhelm”, 1963). The Wolves saw their first defeat of the season come at the hands of the Dickinson squad, a team who hadn’t been beaten in 29 straight duals. The Wolves fell by a score of 20-10. They bounced back however in their next two matches, winning over South Dakota Tech by a score of 29-2 and Southern State by a score of 30-0. Leading the Wolves to victory were Jim Stout at 177 pounds and Doug Glader at heavyweight. Each wrestler scored two pins for Northern in the two events (“Wrestlers lose 1”, 1963). The Wolves then continued on their winning ways with a decisive 20-11 victory over Minot in their next match. Stout again got a pin to lead the Wolves team (“Wrestlers get win”, 1963). It was at that point in the season that things took a turn for the worse. Northern traveled to Dickinson to take part in a quadrangular with host Dickinson, Montana State, and Valley City. Losing all three matches put a damper on the



The History of NSU Wrestling 16 Wolves nearly unblemished record. Northern lost by scores of 28-3 to Valley City, 31-3 to host Dickinson, and 26-10 to Montana State (“Wrestlers absorb thumping”, 1963). Next up for the Wolves would be a trip to the western part of the state. Northern split a pair of duals with Black Hills and South Dakota Tech. The Wolves dropped a 178 decision to Black Hills and then came back to win against South Dakota Tech by a score of 23-12. A switch in the line-up saw Norm Neu and Jim Stout move down one weight class each. Neu wrestled at 157 while Stout competed at the 167-pound weight class. Stout, who wrestled heavyweight for the Wolves just two seasons earlier, has now dropped two weight classes to compete (“Wrestlers split two”, 1963). In their last conference dual of the season Northern hosted Black Hills Teachers in a rematch of the previous week’s dual. The Wolves avenged the earlier loss, winning by a score of 14-11 after heavyweight Doug Glader won the last match of the night to clinch the win (“Pack turns tables”, 1963). The next dual meet of the season was a nonconference match-up between Valley City and Northern. The Wolves had been hampered by injury in the previous weeks and dropped a 19-11 decision to Valley City. The injuries to the Wolves line-up forced head coach Don Vogt to make some changes to his roster. Those changes were also evident in Northern’s last dual meet of the season. The Wolves dropped a 21-3 decision to South Dakota State; the only wrestle to win a match for Northern being Bob Brown at 147 pounds (“Wolves fall 21-3”, 1963). In preparation for the upcoming SDIC Conference Tournament, Vogt had to insert some inexperienced junior varsity wrestlers into the line-up, a move that was necessary but cost Northern valuable team points (“Two title holders”, 1963). The Wolves finished their regular season with a 6-7 dual record, their worst performance in three years.



The History of NSU Wrestling 17 Without some of their top performers, Northern still managed to take runner-up honors in the SDIC conference meet held on Black Hills Teachers campus. The meet, which was unofficial because the conference would not recognize an official SDIC wrestling tournament without all SDIC schools competing, was the second meet of its kind ever held. Three wrestlers earned top honors with one coming in at second place. Champions for the Wolves included: Doug Glader at heavyweight, Bob Brown at 147 pounds, and Norm Neu at 157 pounds. Outstanding 177-pound wrestler Jim Stout settled for second place after losing his finals match by one riding time point. Host school Black Hills Teachers took home the first place team honors (“Grapplers capture second”, 1963). The 1962-1963 season proved to be the last for Don Vogt. Vogt accepted a position at the end of the school year as the NSTC Dean of Men. Vogt would be in charge of all the men’s dormitories, housing, off-campus jobs, and would serve as the advisor to the Student Senate. Vogt, who finished his coaching career with a 21-17 dual record, would also step down as assistant football coach. During his short time with the Wolves Vogt coached six SDIC conference champions and one SDIC Championship team, those marks were unofficial of course because the SDIC did not officially recognize the championship event until the 1963-1964 season (“Vogt selected”, 1964). 1963-1964 The 1963-1964 season saw the first appearance of head coach Don Woods. Woods, who also coached football and was a physical education teacher, came to NSTC by way of the University of Nebraska where he earned his bachelors degree. Woods then went on to earn a masters degree from Colorado State and become a high school teacher and coach in Nebraska before coming to Aberdeen (“Woods and Bennett”, 1963). Woods



The History of NSU Wrestling 18 took over the reigns of the wrestling program from the very beginning and led the Wolves to an 8-3 dual record, a vast improvement from the dismal 6-7 record they held the previous year. Northern also saw a larger schedule this season than they have seen in the past with duals against USD and Huron added to the lineup (“Top matmen enter”, 1964). Northern’s fine season was capped at the SDIC Championships where they earned second place honors and had two wrestlers finish in first place. This season also marked the first time that the SDIC officially recognized the championship event. Bob Brown and Doug Glader each won championships at 157 and 191 pounds respectively. Norm Neu, a standout from Redfield, had a very impressive year. Neu compiled a 14-2 record on his way to a second place SDIC conference finish. Neu suffered an ankle injury in the semifinals that hampered his finals match and he lost by a score of 2-1 (“Wolf Grapplers earn”, 1964). Norm didn’t let that slow him down for long however as he wrestled his way to a sixth place finish in the NAIA National Championships. The meet, held on Black Hills Teacher’s campus in Spearfish, marked the first time that Northern State Teachers College placed a wrestler in a National Championship event (“Moorhead takes NAIA”, 1964). 1964-1965 After head coach Don Woods earned a second place finish in the SDIC Championships the previous year, and guided Norm Neu to become the first ever Northern State All-American, it would be difficult to improve his performance. However, the competitor that he was drove him to strive for success. Woods added even more teams to the Northern State schedule during the 1964-1965 season. Added to the



The History of NSU Wrestling 19 list were North Dakota State University, Yankton College, Minnesota Morris, Wayne State, and Mayville (“Grapplers finish second”, 1964). The Wolves posted an 8-8 dual record that saw them capture wins over Morris, Kearney, NE, South Dakota Tech, Southern, Yankton, Dakota Wesleyan, and Huron. Another highlight of the season came when the young Northern State team came within two points of upsetting NCAA powerhouse NDSU. The Wolves lost by a score of 18-16 but held on until the final match to come up just short of the victory (“NDSU Grapplers”, 1965). Doug Glader was the only returning SDIC Champion and the responsibility of leading the team would fall on his shoulders. Glader did just that, compiling an impressive dual record on his way to a third SDIC Conference Championship. The Wolves again finished in second place in the SDIC Tournament, with one other champion joining Glader, Dave Krider at 157 pounds (“Glader, Krider capture”, 1965). 1965-1966 Head Coach Don Woods saw his team that had already suffered one season to the graduation of some of its best wresters look at another year without any returning standouts. Woods led the Wolves to a somewhat dismal season. Northern posted an 8-10 dual record in a season that saw the schedule lengthened even more (“Grapplers in SDIC”, 1966). The Wolves added a quadrangular to their schedule and even added some more teams to their dual schedule. Head Coach Don Woods wanted to give his wrestlers as much experience as possible during the short season. The lengthened schedule was also a result of an increased interest in the sport of wrestling. More and more schools were sponsoring teams and they also needed teams to wrestle. Wrestling was becoming a



The History of NSU Wrestling 20 large part of the SDIC athletics picture by the 1965-1966 season (“Wrestling schedule”, 1965). The 1965-1966 SDIC Conference Tournament was held on Northern State Teachers College campus for the second time in three years. Northern State finished in second place in the SDIC Conference Tournament without one champion. The numbers were misleading however as the Wolves saw ten of their eleven wrestlers finish in the top four places. The young team will look to grow into next season, as many of the wrestlers were only one match from being in the top spot in the conference (“Northern is runnerup”, 1966). 1966-1967 Again in 1966-1967 the Wolves wrestlers, led by Don Woods, came up just short of an SDIC Conference title. Black Hills was the champion for the third straight year and the Wolves, who had started the season with over 14 freshmen, finished in second place. Woods outstanding recruiting class yielded the only conference champion for Northern, who went 12-8 in duals, in freshman Brian Asmussen (“Wolf bid SDIC second”, 1967). Brian and his twin brother Bruce were outstanding prep wrestlers for Watertown (“Varsity matmen host”, 1966). One interesting point that arose after the final tournament had taken place was a Freestyle and Greco-Roman tournament that Northern hosted. The tournament, which was open to anyone who wanted to wrestle, was attended by some of the best wrestlers in the nation. Jim Jensen, who hadn’t wrestles much for the Wolves all season, came out strong and won his weight class. This victory was perhaps a sign of greatness to come in the young grappler (“Wrestlers grapple”, 1967).



The History of NSU Wrestling 21 1967-1968 With the start of the 1967-1968 season Northern saw 12 returning letterman join yet another talented recruiting class. The Asmussen twins along with standout Jim Jensen are among the 12 returnees. Highlighting the list of incoming freshman are Doug Neuharth, Chet Jones, and Kerry Johnston. All have had impressive high school careers as they are poised to move into the college ranks (“12 grapplers return”, 1967). The season started with a quadrangular at Northern State that included Westmar, Chadron, and Mayville. Westmar brought a 46 match winning street to Aberdeen with hopes of keeping it going. Westmar proved too much for the young Wolves to handle as Northern dropped a 30-10 decision. They did come back however and win their next two matches by scores of 23-17 over Chadron and 23-16 over Mayville (“Wolf grapplers finish”, 1967). The Wolves continued their winning efforts with victories over Southern and Ellendale, ND before heading to SDSU to take on some very tough competition (“Wrestlers capture”, 1968). Woods felt that the SDSU dual meet would be a good challenge for the young wrestlers who needed to gain some experience against some tough competition. They did just that, losing all three duals be scores of 25-6, 24-8, and 27-5 to SDSU, Northern Iowa, and Valley City respectively (“Koch shines”, 1968). The Wolves had a roller coaster ride for the rest of the season, winning eight matches and losing five. They then entered the SDIC Conference Tournament with hopes of avenging their previous four years in the number two spot to Black Hills Teachers. The Wolves finally downed the Black Hills teachers in the 1967-1968 SDIC Conference Tourney. Northern, who were led by conference champions Doug Neuharth



The History of NSU Wrestling 22 (130), Chet Jones (177), Chuck Keeler (191), and Kerry Johnston (HWT), overcame the BH Teachers by a 96-94 score. The final match of the tournament, won by Kerry Johnston, decided the SDIC Champions. Returning champion Brian Asmussen finished in second place along with Jim Jensen and Jerry Appl (“NSC wrestlers break chain”, 1968). Head Coach Don Woods finished the season with a 15-10 record, an improvement from the previous season, though Woods had continued to improve the NSC wrestlers since taking over in 1963. Woods had compiled a 51-34 record since taking over for Don Vogt and has recorded one SDIC Championship with four runner-up placings. The highlight of the 1967-1968 season, and even the entire history of the wrestling program came when Doug Neuharth entered the NAIA National Tournament in Alamosa, CO. Neuharth, who had compiled a season record of 24-5 became Northern State College’s and South Dakota’s first ever National Champion. Neuharth won the 130 pound weight division at the championships and single-handedly vaulted the Wolves to a fifteenth place national finish. Neuharth was only the second Northern wrestler to ever place in the event, the first being Norm Neu in 1964 (“Neuharth earns NAIA”, 1968). 1968-1969 After a climactic ending to the 1967-1968 season the Wolves were poised to repeat as SDIC Champions and continue their winning tradition. 13 returning letterman highlight the 1968-1969 squad along with another fine class of incoming freshman (“Grapplers prepare”, 1968). The start of the season was hindered for the Wolves due to the fact that injuries plagued the team. One major injury was to returning National Champion Doug



The History of NSU Wrestling 23 Neuharth, who was not able to enter the lineup until after the start of the New Year. Northern went on a 9-10 run in dual competition up till the South Dakota Tech and Black Hills matches where they were able to break the .500 mark. The Wolves had a busy year with the change in schedule from the previous year adding many dual tournaments to the line-up, including one at Augsburg and another in Ellendale, ND (“Wolf wrestlers set”, 1969). The turn in the season came when Northern traveled to South Dakota Tech to earn a victory by the score of 33-5 and then hosted a triangular that matched them up with Black Hills and Ellendale. The Wolves earned a hard fought 23-22 victory over Black Hills, their toughest competition in the SDIC, and cruised to a 26-9 win over Ellendale (“Northern wrestlers capture”, 1969). The Wolves finished the 1968-1969 season with a 10-11 dual record with outstanding records from returning lettermen Doug Neuharth, despite a shoulder injury, Jim Jensen, Chet Jones, who was undefeated in dual competition, and Kerry Johnston. Northern then entered the SDIC Conference Tournament on March 1st as the returning Champions. After a very tough day of competition the Wolves had a share of the SDIC Conference title with Black Hills State. Northern, who was behind in the race until the last two matches, saw victories from Chet Jones and Kerry Johnston to ensure them a share of the SDIC crown. Also winning titles for the Wolves were Doug Neuharth (130) for the second straight year, and Jim Jensen at 160 pounds (“NSC, Black Hills”, 1969). The NAIA National Tournament showing during the 1968-1969 season was not as good as the previous year. Injuries again hampered the NSU wrestling team as



The History of NSU Wrestling 24 returning champion Doug Neuharth’s shoulder injury kept him from placing in the tournament. Jim Jensen was the only Northern wrestler to win a match at the tournament that saw all four SDIC Champions compete (“Grapplers compete in NAIA”, 1969). 1969-1970 A promising line-up returned for the Northern State Wolves to start the 19691970 season, headed by all four SDIC Conference Champions. With the exception of Jim Jensen, who was fighting a football injury, the other three champs, Doug Neuharth, Chet Jones, and Kerry Johnston would all be back in Northern’s line-up for the opening match of the season (“Wrestlers begin season”, 1969). After a slow start that saw the Wolves fall to three teams in their own dual tournament, Northern came back strong to win three out of their next four matches. Posting impressive early season records were Doug Neuharth (6-1), Kerry Johnston (5-2), and Mike Nelson (5-2) (“Wrestling season opens”, 1969). The next 11 duals of the season saw Northern fare very well, going 9-2 during the course of the year. The Wolves finished with an impressive dual record of 15-9 and were primed to take their four returning SDIC Champions into the conference meet (“Wrestlers sweep weekend”, 1970). Two Northern State wrestlers repeated as conference champs to lead the Wolves to another second place finish, their fifth in seven years. Jim Jensen won the 158-pound weight class, while Chet Jones earned his third straight SDIC Championship at 190 pounds. Two Northern stat wrestlers will make the trip to Superior, Wisconsin for the NAIA National Tournament on March 13-14-15. Jim Jensen will represent Northern at



The History of NSU Wrestling 25 158 pounds while 130-pound standout Doug Neuharth will also be making the trip (“Jensen, Jones cop”, 1970). Northern failed to place anyone in the NAIA National Tournament for the second year in a row as Jim Jensen was ousted after winning two matches and Doug Neuharth lost a pair before being eliminated (“Jensen wins twice”, 1970). 1970-1971 The 1970-1971 season started off well for the Wolves. Returning SDIC Conference champions Jim Jensen, Doug Neuharth, Chet Jones, and Kerry Johnston would yet again anchor Northern’s line-up. The Wolves started the season in impressive fashion, winning their first three duals and gaining their first win ever over Dickinson. Northern edged out the North Dakota squad by a score of 17-14 with wins by all four returning SDIC Champions to lead the Wolves. Northern also posted wins over Morris and Wesleyan at the same quadrangular (“Wolves have successful”, 1970). The Wolves also entered the St. Cloud Invitational for the first time in their history this season. The tournament, which is host to some of the best NAIA and NCAA teams in the region, would prove to be a mainstay in the NSC Wolves schedule as they still attend the invitational tournament to this day. Northern saw one individual champion and two second place finishers in the tournament during the 1970-1971 season. Jim Jensen won the 158-pound class while Chet Jones and Kerry Johnston each placed second at 190 pounds and heavyweight respectively (“Jensen wins at St Cloud”, 1970). The four returning SDIC Champions had their way with a number of opponents throughout the season. Leading the Wolves to their best dual mark ever the quad of champions helped Northern post a 17-3 dual record. Northern saw impressive wins over



The History of NSU Wrestling 26 most of their opponents as no team that the Wolves beat scored more than 15 team points against them. Jim Jensen posted a 16-0 dual record for the season while Doug Neuharth and Kerry Johnston each had records of 18-2 and 16-3 before the SDIC Conference Tournament (“Wolves continue success”, 1971). Entering the SDIC race the Wolves were favored to win the title. Huron University had other plans however as they upended the Wolves in the Conference race. Of the four past champions competing for the Wolves only one of them earned another SDIC Conference title. Jim Jensen capped an undefeated season with a SDIC Championship at 158 pounds. Also winning titles for the Wolves were Mike Nelson and Daryl Schmidt. Nelson won the 142-pound weight class while Schmidt earned a first place finish at 167 pounds. The Wolves other returning champions failed to repeat but weren’t far from the top spot. Chet Jones lost an overtime match by referee’s decision in his championship match. The win would have given Jones four straight championship performances. Kerry Johnston also lost a close 4-3 decision in his championship match to finish in second place. Doug Neuharth, who had been a two-time conference champion and National Champion failed to place at the meet after losing his first round match (“Wrestlers place second”, 1971). The Wolves then saw two wresters make the trip to the NAIA National Tournament, Jim Jensen who competed at 150 pounds and Kerry Johnston at heavyweight. Johnston was ousted after losing in the first round of competition but Jensen continued his undefeated streak until the quarterfinals of the tournament. Jensen then won the rest of his match to place third in the Nation, his highest finish of his career.



The History of NSU Wrestling 27 In a very remarkable feat, Jensen only gave up one takedown all season, that coming in his loss during the National Tournament (“Jensen cops third”, 1971). 1971-1972 With the graduation of some of the Wolves top performers from the last four seasons, Northern had a down year during the 1971-1972 season. Head coach Don Woods led the Northern Wolves to a 10-6-2 dual mark, a considerable drop from the 17-3 dual record they recorded the previous season (“Wolves undefeated in dual”, 1972). Some of the wrestlers that highlighted the season with impressive dual records were Myron Bryant, Mike Nelson, and Curt Niederbaumer (“Wolves down Trojans”, 1972). The Wolves also saw their worst SDIC Conference race since the beginning of their program with a fourth place finish. Posting only one conference champion in Mike Nelson at 150 pounds, who won his second straight title, the Wolves finished behind Huron, Springfield, and Dakota State. Northern also had two wrestlers finish in second place at the tournament, Doug Lingor at 118 pounds, and Myron Bryant at 167 pounds (“Huron wins wrestling”, 1972). The Wolves ended their season in similar fashion as they failed to have anyone win a match or place at the NAIA National Tournament. 1972-1973 The 1972-1973 season started with hopes of improvement from the previous year. Only five returning lettermen entered the NSC line-up with experience on the mats. Leading those men were Myron Bryant, Doug Lingor and Curt Niederbaumer, who had some of the most impressive records the previous season (“Wrestlers open practice”, 1972).



The History of NSU Wrestling 28 The Wolves started the year with a string of losses, going 0-3-1 before winning their first match over Black Hills (“Grapplers open season”, 1972). The Wolves then posted strong performances at both the St. Cloud tournament and the St. Johns tournament with two wrestlers having particularly outstanding performances (“Bryant, Niederbaumer garner”, 1973). Myron Bryant and Curt Niederbaumer compiled nearly unblemished records as they led the Wolves to a third place finish at St. Johns and each grabbing third place finishes at St Cloud. Bryant also recorded a championship performance at the St. Johns tourney (“Grapplers garner”, 1973). Northern also saw the South Dakota State tourney included in their line-up for the first time this season. The Wolves wrestled some of the states top schools in a tournament designed for just that, only South Dakota schools. Northern then went on to post the most dismal season since their formulation as Don Woods’ team compiled a 3-12-2 record. The highlight of their squad being Jerry Parkinson, who was selected as one of the top SDIC performers in what seems to be the first ratings to appear for the NSC wrestling squad (“Tribe dominates stats”, 1973). At the SDIC Conference Championships the Wolves posted an equally dismal performance, earning their worst SDIC team placing of their history, placing fifth. Some of the teams top performers failed to make the championship rounds. Myron Bryant and Curt Niederbaumer each wrestled to a third place finish. The lone champion for the Wolves was Jerry Parkinson. Parkinson won the 126-pound weight class with an impressive performance, winning three matches in a row to capture first place (“Parkinson wins SDIC crown”, 1973).



The History of NSU Wrestling 29 Head Coach Don Woods did see his wrestlers have an impressive performance at The NAIA National Tournament in Sioux City, IA. Curt Niederbaumer, who finished in third place at the SDIC Tournament, captured a fourth place finish at the NAIA Championships. That fact shows the strong performers that the SDIC has competing every year. Other Northern State wrestlers who won matches were Jerry Parkinson, Doug Lingor, and Myron Bryant. Lingor was just one match away from being in the top eight places. The Wolves finished in 22nd place as a team out of 100 in the nation (“Niederbaumer earns fourth”, 1973). 1973-1974 The 1973-1974 season saw a change at the helm of the Northern State Wrestling squad. Head Coach Don Woods took a year leave of absence and Jon Horning stepped in as the head coach of the Wolves. The Wolves returned seven lettermen to the roster, which was highlighted by seniors Doug Lingor and Curt Niederbaumer. Also returning to the line-up were Jerry Parkinson, who won an SDIC title last season, and Myron Bryant, who wrestled in last season NAIA National Championships. The Wolves added more teams to their schedule this season when they first traveled to NDSU to take part in an open tournament. Open tournaments are open to anyone who wants to wrestle and in particular, the NDSU open was one of the toughest in the region. The Wolves wrestled hard at the competition but failed to see anyone place (Grapplers open season”, 1973). Northern also added duals with Peru State and Morningside College to their schedule. Even though the Wolves dropped both duals it allowed the wrestlers to gain experience with other teams in the nation (“Grapplers post 1-3”, 1974).



The History of NSU Wrestling 30 The Wolves posted a 6-10 record under Horning, with key wins over South Dakota Tech and Chadron during the season. The record of the Wolves was at times misleading as Northern lost five duals by less than 5 team points, which breaks down to a one match difference in the duals (“Grapplers drop dual”, 1974). Also with the new head coach there were some other new additions to the Wolves team. The 1973-1974 season saw the first “mat maids”, who essentially were the first cheerleaders that the team had. The “mat maids” also kept stats, and did other managerial duties for the Wolves team. Eleven women were a part of the first “mat maids” squad (“Mat maids spark”, 1973). The Northern State wrestling team also garnered runner-up honors at the annual St. Johns Tournament. Three Wolves finished in the top spot at the tournament: Jerry Parkinson at 126 pounds, Doug Lingor at 134 pounds, and Curt Niederbaumer at heavyweight (“Grapplers earn runner-up”, 1974) The Wolves ended their regular season at the annual SDIC Conference Championships. Three Northern State wrestlers captured crowns in a tournament that saw Northern finish in fourth place. Title winners were: Jerry Parkinson, for the second straight year at 126, Myron Bryant, wrestling at 158 pounds, and Curt Niederbaumer, who won the title at heavyweight (“Grapplers earn”, 1974). The highlight of the 1973-1974 season came when Curt Niederbaumer capped of his impressive senior season with a 2nd place finish at the NAIA National Championships. Niederbaumer finished the season with a 34-3-1 record and posted four pins on his way to the national finals appearance, that saw him lose in overtime to his opponent from William Penn University. Also wrestling in the NAIA Championships were Jerry



The History of NSU Wrestling 31 Parkinson and Myron Bryant. Parkinson, who posted a record of 30-5 on the season, dropped his first round match in overtime to be eliminated from competition. Bryant also lost his first round match and ended his season with an 18-10-2 record (“Niederbaumer claims”, 1974). 1974-1975 Head Coach Don Woods was back at the helm of the Northern State Wrestling squad for the 1974-1975 season. Woods brought in some promising recruits for the season including, Larry Parkinson, brother to standout Jerry Parkinson, who had already won two SDIC Conference titles for the Wolves. Woods also brought in a number of other outstanding transfer students to complement the Parkinson duo. Those wrestlers would not be eligible until the second semester (“Grapplers debut”, 1974). The Wolves started the season with the NDSU Open. Seven wrestlers made to trip to Fargo for the tough competition and no Northern State competitors placed in the tournament. Jerry Parkinson and Bahne Bahnson each won a match before being eliminated (“Wrestlers debut”, 1974) The 1974-1975 season also saw Northern host their first takedown tournament. The Wolves were host to five other teams in a round robin format tournament that only allowed points to be scored by a takedown or near fall (“Wolves host”, 1974). The Wolves posted a 10-4-1 mark on the season under head coach Don Woods. The record was a vast improvement on their substandard seasons of the past three years. Posting impressive records for the Wolves were Jerry and Larry Parkinson, Myron Bryant, and Tom Boekelheide.



The History of NSU Wrestling 32 Northern State University also made their move into the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference in 1975. The Wolves would now be included in a conference that was composed mainly of teams from Northern Minnesota and North Dakota. Because of their move the Wolves would be forced into a waiting period that was consistent with the NSIC Conference rules. The Wolves would be considered an independent team for a period of five years. During that time wrestlers would not compete in a conference tournament but would still be eligible for the NAIA National Tournament (Myron Bryant, personal communication, July 16, 2004). The Northern wrestlers failed to place anyone at the 1975 NAIA National Championships, which were held in Sioux City, IA for the second time in three years. Four Northern wrestlers competed at the tournament: Jerry Parkinson, Larry Parkinson, Larry Kolb, and Tom Boekelheide. Three other wrestlers qualified for the event but chose not to wrestle. They were: Myron Bryant, Bahne Bahnson, and Larry Cooper. Both Parkinson wrestlers won matches at the tournament but neither advance far enough to earn a place (“Grapplers advance”, 1975). 1975-1976 Northern State returned some of their best wrestlers from last season. Entering the Wolves line-up this season would be standouts Larry and Jerry Parkinson, Bahne Bahnson, and Tom Boekelheide. The 1975-1976 season started with the annual Bison Open. Eleven wrestlers entered the competition and not one person won a match (“Matmen compete”, 1975). The Wolves then went on to compete in the St. Cloud Invite. Doug Moore earned a second place finish to lead the Wolves while Rick Shamis finished the day in third place. Also



The History of NSU Wrestling 33 placing for the Wolves were Bahne Bahnson and Larry Parkinson who finished in fourth and fifth place respectively (“Northern matmen place”, 1975). At the annual St. Johns takedown tourney the Wolves again had a strong showing, earning a third place team finish. Wrestlers who fared well at the tournament were: Jerry Parkinson who dominated the competition with 36 takedowns to his opponents one, Rick Shamis, who upped his season record to 16-1-3, and Larry Kolbo, who remained undefeated for the year with a 13-0-2 record. The Northern Wolves then went on to post a dual record of 8-8 on the season that saw the Wolves score 5 straight victories midway through the season. Heavyweight Tom Boekelheide earned three of the wins when his deciding matches won the duals for Northern (“Northern matmen split”, 1976). Because of their switch to the NSIC Conference the Wolves were without a conference tournament for the second straight year and Northern had no wrestlers place in the NAIA National Tournament to end the season. 1976-1977 Northern started their 1976-1977 season without some of their top performers from the last three seasons. Larry and Jerry Parkinson and Bahne Bahnson all graduated, leaving the Wolves with only seven returning lettermen including: Rick Shamis, Doug Kehrer, and Larry Kolbo (“Grapplers prepare”, 1976). The Wolves opened their 1976-1977 schedule with the annual St. Cloud Invitational. Two Northern wrestlers finished in second place. Rick Shamis and Dean Niederbaumer each lost close decisions in their finals matches to claim runner-up honors. As a team the Wolves finished in seventh place (“Wolves capture seventh”, 1976).



The History of NSU Wrestling 34 For the first time since starting their own takedown tournament the Wolves finished in first place, winning the tournament by 20 points over Huron. Five Northern State Wrestles claimed first place honors at the tournament: Rick Shamis (126), Doug Kehrer (130), Ron Kehrer (142), Scott Lutterman (167), and Dean Niederbaumer (190) (“Grapplers take tourney”, 1976). The Wolves continued their winning ways throughout the 1976-1977 season by compiling a dual record of 6-6, losing a number of close duals due to injury to some key wrestlers. Three Northern wrestlers were able to qualify for the NAIA National tournament. Doug Kehrer, Bob Luke, and Dean Niederbaumer each made the trip but failed to place in the tournament (“Wolves attend tourney”, 1977). 1977-1978 The 1977-1978 season opened with the North Dakota State School of Science Invite. The Wolves returned some strong lettermen from last year’s roster and it showed at the tournament. Three Wolves garnered championship honors to lead the way. Doug and Ron Kehrer each won the 134 and 142 pound weight classes while Dean Niederbaumer came away victorious at 190 pounds. The same three wrestlers also led the Wolves at the UND Invite the next weekend. Doug Kehrer came away with championship hardware while Ron Kehrer and Dean Niederbaumer finished in second place (“Wrestlers compete”, 1977). One interesting fact that occurred during the 1977-1978 season came in the Wolves dual loss to Huron. Curt Bietz dominated his Huron opponent for a 7-2 victory, but came away from the match with pain in his leg. Doctors later found that Bietz had



The History of NSU Wrestling 35 actually broken his leg during the match and finished his opponent off for the win despite his injury (“Wrestlers drop Augie”, 1978). With the acceptance of Northern State into the NSIC Conference still undecided the Wolves were again without a conference championship tournament. Northern went on to post a dual record of 6-6 for the season, led by four of their top individuals. Doug and Ron Kehrer, Dave Wratz, and Dean Niederbaumer each helped to contribute to the Wolves success. Those four wrestlers also qualified for the NAIA National Tournament in Whitewater, WI at the qualifying meet held in Aberdeen. Niederbaumer won his weight class at the qualifier but failed to place at the national meet. Northern got third and fourth place finishes from Ron and Doug Kehrer respectively, but Ron was not able to place at the NAIA Championship. Doug however, did manage a sixth place finish to lead the Wolves. The last Northern wrestler to compete at the tournament was Dave Wratz. Wratz finished in fifth place at the qualifying tournament and was eliminated from competition early at the National meet (“Grapplers compete at nationals”, 1978). The 1977-1978 season would be the last that Don Woods coached for Northern. Taking over the reins for 1978-1979 would be Fran Hummel. Hummel, who earned his masters degree from Northern while coaching football, would take over the reins from Woods (“Northern welcomes”, 1978). During his fourteen years as the head coach of the Wolves wrestlers, Woods compiled a dual record of 130-110-5. Don Woods coached two SDIC Championship teams and six SDIC Runner-up teams during his tenure with the Wolves. Many great athletes were coached by Don Woods, including the Wolves first National Champion, Doug Neuharth. Woods also coached five All-Americans and 20 SDIC Champions on his way to an outstanding career as head coach.



The History of NSU Wrestling 36 1978-1979 Fran Hummel was optimistic about the start of the 1978-1979 season, but with the injury to returning national qualifier Dean Niederbaumer, the beginning of the season would be tough. Niederbaumer, who suffered a broken leg early in the year, would not be able to wrestle until after the start of the New Year. The Wolves did return six other healthy lettermen to help them in the transition. Leading the returning pack would be the other national qualifier who would return from the previous season, Dave Wratz at 118 pounds (“Wrestling coach optimistic”, 1978). Wratz led the Wolves at the beginning of the season with a third place finish at the NDSSS takedown tournament and a second place finish at the St Cloud Invite (Northern grapplers place”, 1978). Also posting strong performances were Bob Luke, who won the NDSSS takedown tournament and Duane Braun, who came in second at the UND open, which was one of the toughest tournaments in the region (“Tough schedule makes”, 1978) Dean Niederbaumer came back to the Northern State line-up for the first time against Dakota State. Niederbaumer scored two pins to lead the Wolves in his first matches of the season (“Mat Wolves”, 1979). Fran Hummel led the Wolves to an impressive season record of 7-5, which was Northern’s first winning season since 1975. With the help of senior Dean Niederbaumer the Wolves placed four wrestlers in the region tournament, the qualifying tournament for the NAIA Championship. Niederbaumer led the Wolves with a second place finish at 190 pounds along with Bob Luke who also placed second at his weight class. Finishing



The History of NSU Wrestling 37 third for the Wolves were Greg VanderLugt and Duane Braun (“Matmen place at regionals”, 1979). After the regional tournament the Wolves had the opportunity to take part in their first ever NIC tournament. The Wolves did not fare well on the weekend, seeing only one wrestler place. Greg VanderLugt earned a second place finish at heavyweight. Outstanding senior Dean Niederbaumer did not wrestle in the tournament for the Wolves (“VanderLugt takes”, 1979). Northern failed to place anyone at the NAIA National tournament and the Wolves head coach Fran Hummel felt his young squad will look toward the future with optimism. 1979-1980 Fran Hummel entered his second year as the Northern State Wrestling coach with a field of young wrestlers from the previous season. He knew that to become a competitive team he would have to recruit some very talented wrestlers. Hummel did just that, bringing in 16 new recruits for the 1979-1980 season. This was Northern’s largest recruiting class since their inception into the NSU athletics program. The list of freshman included four high school state champions. Highlighting the list were some well known names in the Northern State program: Dave Madden, Bob Hirsch, Marc Broderson, Todd Lager, Jim Trevett, and Chris Lund. Each of these wrestlers would go on to win a great deal of matches for the Wolves (“Grapplers begin season”, 1979). Fran Hummel led the Wolves to an 8-7 dual record for the 1979-1980 season. After losing their first three matches the Wolves then scored wins in five of their next six duals (“Wrestlers end season”, 1980). The outstanding freshman class was beginning to come around and win matches for the Wolves. Highlighted by the performances of Dave



The History of NSU Wrestling 38 Madden, Bob Hirsch, and Dan Wall the Wolves won their own takedown tournament with five champions and six second place performers (“Matmen win”, 1980). The Northern State wrestlers entered the NIC Championship with the hopes of qualifying the most wrestlers that they could to the NAIA National tournament. The NIC tournament was the second tournament that the Wolves could qualify wrestlers in, the other being the regional tournament. Since the two tournaments were held on the same weekend the Wolves decided to take part in the NIC tournament (“Wrestlers end season”, 1980). Northern State qualified one wrestler for the NAIA meet at the NIC Championships. Bob Hirsch earned his way into the tournament with a third place performance. The Wolves were not done there however, three other wrestlers also qualified based on a point system. Dave Wratz, Marv Engels, and Scott Boone each earned their place into the national tournament. Since the NAIA National Tournament would be held in the region that NSU was in the Wolves also had the luxury of taking four more wrestlers to the Championships based on a rule to promote spectator interest. Those four wrestlers would be Marc Broderson, Dan Wall, Curt Bietz, and Chris Lund (“Wrestlers prepare”, 1980). Of the eight Northern wrestlers to enter the NAIA National Tournament, Scott Boone was the only person to win a match. Hummel commented that he was dissatisfied with his team’s performance, citing awe for the big show as the downfall of the team. Hummel will look towards next season with hopes of an improved performance (“NSC sends eight”, 1980). 1980-1981



The History of NSU Wrestling 39 With a strong returning group of lettermen, Fran Hummel set his goals high for the 1980-1981 season. He would be returning some of his top wrestlers from last season in Bob Hirsch, who was the only Northern wrestler to place in last year’s NIC Tournament and Chris Lund, who compiled an impressive record at heavyweight. Both would help Northern to an impressive season in 1980-1981. The Wolves posted a dual record of 11-10-1 on their way through the season. Bob Hirsch posted a 34-6 record on his way to a seventh place finish at the NAIA National Tournament. Chris Lund also posted an impressive 29-11 record and was in the top eight at the final tournament, earning an 8th place finish. Hirsch and Lund also led Northern to a 25th place finish at the NAIA National tournament out of 81 teams. John Wilbur also came on strong at the end of the season, compiling a record of 8-2 and earning a third place finish at the NIC Tournament. Also posting winning records and earning spots at the NAIA National tournament were Dave Madden, Marc Broderson, Marv Engels, and Scott Boone. Chris Lund also set a new record during the season, posting 27 pins on his way to a second place finish in the NIC Tournament. Most of the top seven wrestlers would be returning for the 1981-1982 season, one that head coach Fran Hummel hopes to be their best to date (Fran Hummel, personal communication, 1981). 1981-1982 The 1981-1982 season started off well for the Wolves and head coach Fran Hummel. Bob Hirsch led the Northern charge going undefeated in the first two months of the season. Also posting outstanding records to help the Wolves were Dave Harvey, a freshman at 118 pounds, and Scott Boone at 177 pounds.



The History of NSU Wrestling 40 Northern continued their success throughout the 1981-1982 season, posting a dual record of 10-7-1 on the season and were ranked as high as 20th during the year. Leading the Wolves were returning All-Americans, Bob Hirsch and Chris Lund, both posting outstanding records. Also turning in a good performance was Scott Boone at 177 pounds. Boon started the season at the 190-pound weight class but moved down in the line-up and saw great success, compiling a 17-4 record at 177 pounds and an overall record of 24-81. Six Northern State wrestlers qualified for the National Tournament in 1981-1982. Leading the group were Hirsch and Lund followed by, Todd Ford, John Wilbur, Marc Broderson, and Scott Boone. Even though Hirsch and Lund were expected to repeat as All-American, the feat eluded them during the 1981-1982 season. No Northern wrestlers were able to place at the NAIA National Championships (Raw Data, NSU Sports Information Office, 1981-1982). Northern was also without a NIC Conference Champion since the move into the NIC in 1979. The Wolves did see five wrestlers place at the tournament however, led by Chris Lund, who earned a second place finish for the second straight year. Also placing were; Todd Ford, third at 126 pounds, Bob Hirsch, fourth at 134 pounds, Marc Broderson, fourth at 150 pounds, and Scott Boone, third at 177 pounds (NSU Sports Information Press Release, 1982). The Wolves will return a large portion of their line-up for the 1982-1983 season. Hirsch and Lund, who were a part of that fabulous recruiting class of 1980, will highlight the list of returnees. 1982-1983



The History of NSU Wrestling 41 Many of the same names highlighted the 1982-1983 wrestling season. Hirsch, Lund, and Broderson were becoming household names in the NSU ranks. Hirsch would actually spend his season chasing a record at Northern State. Hirsch was just a handful of victories from becoming Northern State’s first ever 100 win wrestlers. Most of the season was spent watching Hirsch move closer and closer to the 100-win mark. Hirsch did just that at the Moorhead dual, winning his 100th match by a score of 2-0. Hirsch’s record currently stands as one of the most outstanding career record in Northern State University history at 108-26-1 (NSU Sports Information Press Release, March 18, 1983). Scott Boone spent the year in Bob Hirsch’s shadow, but quietly posted the best record on the NSU wrestling team. Boone boasted a win loss record of 26-4 on the season with 11 pins to lead the Wolves. Boone was chosen as a member of the NAIA All-District 12 wrestling team along with Hirsch for his fine performance at 190 pounds (NSU Sports Information Press Release, March 17, 1983). The Wolves had their first NIC Champion ever during the 1982-1983 season. Chris Lund posted a flawless performance for Northern at the NIC meet and came away with Championship honors on his home mat. Lund also went on the claim first place at the Region tournament as well the next week. Seven other wrestlers claiming top four place finishes joined Lund. Marty Cordell finished in fourth at 167, Todd Ford, Bob Hirsch, Mark Broderson, Todd Weber, and John Trevett claimed third place, while Curt Mack and Scott Boone finished in second place. The Wolves finished in fourth place as a team, their highest finish since joining the NIC ranks in 1980. Many of the same wrestlers that earned place finishes at the NIC Conference also qualified for the NAIA National Tournament. Needing to finish in the top two to make



The History of NSU Wrestling 42 the cut Northern saw four wrestlers earn automatic bids into the final tournament of the year. Chris Lund earned his spot with his first place finish at heavyweight, Scott Boone, Bob Hirsch, and Todd Ford also qualified with second place finishes. Two other Northern State wrestlers would also earn alternate qualification into the NAIA tournament. Mark Broderson and Kirk Bainter would also make the trip for the Wolves. Bob Hirsch capped off his stellar career for the Wolves with a seventh place finish at the NAIA National Tournament in 1983. Hirsch earned his second All-American honors during his senior season and posted a season record of 30-7. Four Northern State standouts would graduate during the 1982-1983 season. Bob Hirsch, Mark Broderson, Scott Boone, and Chris Lund had seen their last season as Wolves wrestlers. Head Coach Fran Hummel would see these four wrestlers, remnants of the 1979 recruiting class; vault his team to the tops of the NAIA and NIC ranks. Northern had seen their first glimpses of success on the national level and Hummel would be looking to take his team even higher in the national ranks. 1983-1984 The 1983-1984 season saw the first ever alumni match held by the wrestling team. Recent alumni were on hand to wrestle the current NSU team and enjoy a fun evening rehashing old memories. The alumni team downed the Wolves by a score of 24-20. The alumni were led by some of Northern’s most decorated alumni: Bob Hirsch, Dean Niederbaumer, and Marc Broderson (“Wolves begin”, 1983). The Wolves started the 1983-1984 season with the annual Minot State Invitational. Dave Harvey led the Wolves with a championship performance at 126



The History of NSU Wrestling 43 pounds. Also placing for the Wolves were Bill Welch, second at 134 pounds, Todd Weber, third at 150 pounds, and Blaine McCance, third at heavyweight. Northern then moved on to post a 7-9 record in a rebuilding year. The team consisted mainly of freshman and sophomores after the loss of four outstanding seniors the previous season (Steffen, 1984) Leading the Wolves for the 1983-1984 season was Blaine McCance. McCance posted over 30 wins on the season and was the NIC and District 12 Champion. The Wolves also saw outstanding performances by Tim Weisz, Dave Harvey, Doyle Everson, John Trevett, and Roger Waldner. Each of these wrestlers also qualified for the NAIA National Tournament, but each wrestler was eliminated and Northern State University was without a national place winner (Steffen, 1984). 1984-1985 When Fran Hummel started the 1984-1985 season he had little doubt that Northern State University would be a team to be reckoned with. After a successful season last year and the return of many of his teams best wrestlers Hummel would be looking to achieve marks never seen before in NSU wrestling history. Hummel had no idea however, that he would lead one of the greatest teams in Northern State University History to their highest finish in the NAIA National Tournament. The Wolves started the 1984-1985 season with the NDSU Bison Open. Three Wolves placed on the day. Blain McCance earned a hard fought second place finish at 190 pounds. McCance cruised into his finals match were he lost his only match of the day to Dennis Koslowski, who many wrestling fanatics would know as an Olympic caliber wrestlers from Doland, SD. McCance lost to the Olympian 16-3. Also placing



The History of NSU Wrestling 44 for the Wolves were Dave Harvey, who finished in third at 126 pounds, and Doyle Everson, who also ended the day in fifth place at 126 pounds (“Three NSC wrestlers”, 1984). The Wolves then went on to post an outstanding season. Northern compiled a dual record of 10-3 throughout the 1984-1985 season and won nine of their last 10 duals in convincing fashion. The Wolves also posted team championships in three tournaments throughout the season. Northern claimed team championship honors at the Cougar Invitational, the Northern Invitational, and the Chadron State College Invitational. (1985 Yearbook) The Wolves went on to finish second in the NIC Tournament with three champions. Earning titles for the Wolves were Dave Harvey at 118 pounds, John Trevett at 177 pounds, and Blaine McCance for the second straight year at 190 pounds. Nine Northern State University Wrestlers qualified for the National Tournament and went on to win the District 12 tournament. The nine Wolves were Doyle Everson, Dave Harvey, Eddie Clark, Curt Mack, Gary Harris, Tim Weisz, John Trevett, Blaine McCance, and Jim Fryer. Of the nine wrestlers that qualified for the national tournament four placed (NSU News Bureau, 1985). Dave Harvey became Northern State University’s second ever National Champion. Harvey, who wrestled his way to a championship title at 126 pounds, joins Doug Neuharth as the only two Northern State wrestlers to win national titles. Northern also saw two other wrestlers make their way into the championship match in their respective weight classes. Doyle Everson dropped 12-7 decision in his finals match to claim second place while Blaine McCance was disqualified from his championship match



The History of NSU Wrestling 45 at 190 pounds and also finished the day in second place. Northern’s only other place finisher was Jim Fryer, who wrestled his way to a third place finish. As a team Northern State University was third in the national standings, the highest that the team has accomplished since starting their wrestling program in 1959 (“Harvey leads matmen”, 1985). Head Coach Fran Hummel was not without his accomplishments on the season. For his efforts and for leading his team to a runner-up finish in the NIC, a championship performance in the District 12 Tournament, and a third place NAIA National Tournament finish, Hummel was name the outstanding coach at all three levels. Hummel was the NIC Coach of the Year, the District 12 Coach of the Year, and the NAIA National Coach of the Year (“Hummel, Wach named”, 1985). Topping the 1984-1985 season would be hard for the Wolves to accomplish, but they were up to the challenge, as a large part of their squad would be returning the next season. 1985-1986 In what Fran Hummel calls his most promising year that he coached the Wolves were led by returning National Champion Dave Harvey. Harvey would be looking to repeat as National Champion and help the Wolves improve on their third place team finish. Throughout the year the Wolves compiled a dual record of 16-3, losing only to SDSU, NDSU, and Waldorf College, three of the nations best teams in the NCAA Division II and Division III ranks. The Wolves posted their first victory over Southwest State ever, downing the Mustangs by a score of 33-12. The Mustangs had been the NIC



The History of NSU Wrestling 46 Champions the last three years straight. With the victory the Wolves were poised to be the leagues top team for the first time (NSU News Bureau, 1986). Northern did just that, claiming the NIC Conference championship for the first time with four top place winners. Leading the Wolves performance were Mike Wiley, Dave Harvey, John Trevett, and Tim Weisz. Each won the title at their respective weight class. This would be the second time that Harvey and Trevett had won conference titles. Fran Hummel would also be named NIC coach of the year for the second straight year (“Eight NSC matmen”, 1986). The Wolves went on to win the District 12 title in similar fashion, qualifying eight wrestlers for the national tournament. Four Wolves won titles at the District 12 meet; Harvey, Wiley, Trevett, and John Wilbur. The other four qualifying wrestlers were: Eddie Clark, Scott Thompson, Tim Weisz, and Jim Fryer (“NSC Matmen tie”, 1986). The Wolves entered the NAIA National Tournament as the number two-ranked team in the country. Riding high off of a fine season and qualifying eight men to compete in the national tournament, the Wolves would be looking to improve on last year’s third place finish. Northern would come up just short of the elusive title however. Dave Harvey ended his stellar season with a 37-0 record and his second national championship in as many years. Also placing for the Wolves, who ended the tournament in seventh place were: Mike Wiley, sixth at 118 pounds, Scott Thompson, seventh at 150 pounds, and John Trevett, seventh at 190 pounds. Even though the Wolves did not place as high as last season Hummel was pleased with the effort of many of his men, especially Dave Harvey (“Matmen finish season”, 1986). Northern would graduate a number of their most



The History of NSU Wrestling 47 outstanding wrestlers during the 1985-1986 season. Losing those men would greatly hinder the Wolves team next season. Graduating for Northern were Dave Harvey, John Trevett, Jim Fryer, Tim Weisz, Todd Weber, John Wilbur, and Scott Thompson. Each had played an integral role in developing the Wolves team into a national title contender. 1986-1987 After the stellar seasons Northern had put together the last two years, it would be hard for head coach Fran Hummel to repeat their performance. The Wolves had risen to the top of the NAIA ranks and were continuing to improve, but the loss of many key individuals would hinder the 1986-1987 team. Northern returned two NAIA AllAmericans, the first being Mike Wiley, a 118 pound senior who had placed sixth at last years tournament and the second Doyle Everson, who was a national runner-up two seasons ago. Everson was not able to wrestle during the 1985-1986 season because there was no room in the line-up for Everson, Wiley, and National Champion Dave Harvey. Everson would come back strong for the 1986-1987 season with hopes of making it back to the national championship match (NSU Sports Information Press Release, 1987). Hummel would see his team go 11-4 in dual competition and earn a third place finish in the NIC Conference meet. The Wolves crowned three champions at the tournament: Mike Wiley, Doyle Everson, and Trevor Clark. The Wolves also crowned three champions at the District 12 meet: Wiley, Everson, and heavyweight Ken Fouts. In all, six wrestlers qualified for the NAIA National Tournament; Wiley, Everson, Trevor Clark, Eddie Clark, Glenn Melcher, and Fouts (“Wrestlers take three”, 1987). Going in to the NAIA National Tournament the Wolves were ranked ninth in the nation. Improving on last year’s seventh place finish was utmost in Hummel’s wrestlers



The History of NSU Wrestling 48 minds. The outlook was good for the Wolves, Everson and Wiley were the top seeds in their weight classes and the other Northern State wrestlers had high seeds as well. The day did not go as planned however, with only Everson staying alive after the first day of competition. Everson would lose his second match of day two and be eliminated from the tournament. The Wolves failed to place any wrestlers in the top eight places (“Everson only wrestler”, 1987). 1987-1988 Fran Hummel was hot off of a disappointing ending to the 1986-1987 season and was looking to get back into championship form for the 1987-1988 season. The Wolves started the season off well, going 4-1 in dual competition to begin the season. The Wolves posted dual wins over Valley City, Jamestown, and the University of Mary and dropped a 21-15 to South Dakota State University (“Non-Conference wrestling match”, 1987). The Wolves then went on to place fourth in the NIC meet and fourth in the District 12 meet. The Wolves accomplished a season record of 9-5 in dual matches with the help of a 3-1 finish at the end of the season (NSU News Bureau, 1988). Northern State University only had one wrestlers win an NIC Conference title for the 1987-1988 season. Eddie Clark was the lone champion for the Wolves. The Wolves were able to qualify five wrestlers for the NAIA National Tournament. Leading the Wolves was returning national qualifier Ken Fouts at heavyweight. Steve Keszler, Eddie Clark, Rich Voegeli, Tim Pranger, and Willie Schumacher joined Fouts at the national championships with impressive records on the year. The Wolves could only garner one



The History of NSU Wrestling 49 national place winner on the season however. Clark earned a fifth place finish at 134 pounds, a weight above where he won his conference title (“Clark finishes fifth”, 1988). The Northern State University wrestlers did have two major highlights during their season. The first being the opportunity to wrestle in the Joseph Barnett Physical Education Center, the Wolves multimillion dollar addition to the campus. The Barnett Center would become popular for its use by the High School Activities Association to house many state tournaments over the years. The Wolves wrestlers won their first ever dual in the building over Jamestown by a score of 46-2 (NSU Sports Information Press Release, March 14 1988). The second major highlight of the 1987-1988 season was the 100th career victory for head coach Fran Hummel. Hummel, in his tenth season with the Wolves, finished the season with just enough wins, and a 100-63-2 career dual record. Hummel has also led Northern State to two top ten national place finishes and has coached one National Champion to go along with his 13 All-Americans and 13 NIC Champions. 1988-1989 The Northern State University Wolves started their 1988-1989 season with the return of five national qualifiers. Eddie Clark would be the only national qualifier to graduate from the last season. The downfall of the season started early however, as three of Northern’s returning starters and team captains would be out with serious injuries. Steve Keszler had a broken arm, Rod Bradley had a broken collarbone, and Ken Fouts was fighting back problems. The Wolves were forced to start a line-up that consisted of 80% freshman (“Southwest State wins”, 1989).



The History of NSU Wrestling 50 The Wolves did see some strong performances from some of their younger wrestlers however. Sophomore Tim Pranger was wrestling well for the Wolves along with Rich Peters, Rich Voegeli, and Wade Lager. With the exception of Voegeli the Wolves roster would be whittled down to nothing as injury after injury kept many of the Wolves best wrestlers on the sideline (NSU Sports Information Press Release, 1988). The Wolves would continue the season and finish with a 6-7 record, Hummel first losing season since 1983. Northern would not have an NIC Champion for the first time since 1982 and would only see one wrestler earn All-American status out of two competing. The Wolves placed Rich Voegeli in the top eight at the NAIA National Tournament. Voegeli actually finished seventh out of about 28 wrestlers at the 134pound weight class. The Wolves only other wrestler to qualify was Pat Selchert at 118 pounds (Raw Data, NSU Sports Information Office, 1989). Voegeli did not just earn athletic All-American honors at the NAIA National Tournament. Voegeli became the first ever Northern State University wrestler to be named to the NAIA All-Academic team. With a 3.32 grade point average in industrial technology Voegeli would earn a spot on the All-Academic team for the first time in not only Northern’s but his career as well (NSU Sports Information Press Release, March 9, 1989). 1989-1990 With the start of the new decade the Wolves would be looking for increased success on the wrestling mat. Head coach Fran Hummel would again be at the helm of the NSU wrestling team, but would not remain there for long. The Wolves would also see their last years as a member of the NAIA ranks, as they were preparing to move their



The History of NSU Wrestling 51 entire conference, in all sports to the NCAA Division II ranks. The Wolves wrestling team would not fare well during the 1990’s, but with increased motivation and the desire to win the Wolves would continue on. Northern State would see four different coaches during this ten-year period and little success as Northern suffers through a transitional period in their lives. The 1989-1990 season started with the Wolves wrestling in a number of tournaments, actually 11 to be exact throughout the season. The increased number of tournaments would give the Northern wrestlers much needed experience (“Wrestling Wolves”, 1989). Northern started their 1989-1990 season off well, winning two of their first three duals over Jamestown and the University of Mary. The Wolves relied heavily on experienced wrestlers who were back in the line-up after injuries last season. Steve Keszler, Rod Bradley, Tim Pranger, and Wade Lager led the Wolves in the victories (NSU Sports Information Press Release, Nov 28, 1989). Wade Lager’s success would be short lived however, as he re-injured his shoulder at the Northern State Invite and would miss the remainder of his senior season. (“Disappointment for Lager”, 1990) The Wolves ended their 1989-1990 season with three NIC Conference Champions, the most they have had since 1987. Winning titles for Northern were, Ben Risseuw, Rich Peters, and Rod Bradley (“Three matmen possess”, 1990). Each of those wrestlers would qualify for the NAIA National meet as well. Joining the trio at the championships would be Steve Keszler, Miles Van Hee, Wade Lager, even though he would not be able to compete, Tim Pranger, and Kirk Bierschank. Seven wrestlers would



The History of NSU Wrestling 52 be making the trip to the national tournament (Raw Data, NSU Sports Information Office, 1990). The Wolves were able to post one NAIA All-American at the NAIA national tournament. Rich Peters grabbed the eight place spot at 177 pounds to lead the Wolves wrestlers. Rod Bradley would also come away from the NAIA meet with All-American honors. Bradley became Northern’s second member of the All-American Academic team. With a 3.25 GPA in Accounting and Finance Management, Bradley was a member of the first team All-Academic ranks (“Peters earns eighth place”, 1990). 1990-1991 The Wolves returned five national qualifiers to their 1990-1991 team to anchor the line-up. Leading the Wolves would be returning All-American Rich Peters. Peters earned an eighth-place finish last season in his sophomore campaign. Also returning to the line-up would be Rod Bradley at 190 pounds, Tim Pranger, Ben Risseuw, and Kirk Bierschank. Northern recorded a 3-6-1 dual record during the 1990-1991 season, their worst showing since Hummel took over as head coach 13 seasons earlier. Rod Bradley and Rich Peters, who each claimed their second NIC Cenference Titles at the annual meet, led the Wolves throughout the season. Ben Risseuw, who was a NIC Champion last season, claimed a second place finish this year (Raw Data, NSU Sports Information Office, 1991). Qualifying for the NAIA National Tournament for the 1990-1991 season would be freshman Joel Johnson, Rich Peters, Ben Rissuew, Rod Bradley, and freshman Rob Lewis at heavyweight.



The History of NSU Wrestling 53 The Wolves improved on last year’s marks this season at the NAIA National Tournament, doubling their All-Americans from the previous season. Northern saw place finishes from Rich Peters for the second straight year, and Rod Bradley for the first time in his career. Peters earned a fourth place finish at 177 pounds and Bradley claimed fifth place at 190 pounds (Raw Data, NSU Sports Information Office, 1991). The 1990-1991 season would end with one outstanding accomplishment and one heartbreak for the Wolves Wrestling team. Dave Harvey was inducted into the NAIA Hall of Fame at the NAIA National Tournament. Harvey was chosen for his outstanding accomplishments on the mat as a two time NAIA National Champion for the Wolves during the 1984-1986 seasons. Harvey was also a two-time NIC Champion during the same seasons (Raw Data, NSU Sports Information Office, 1991). The heartbreak for the Wolves would be the loss of their head coach. Fran Hummel, after 13 successful years, would be leaving the Wolves team. Hummel ended his career with a 115-82-3 dual record and coached 16 All-Americans and 18 NIC Champions. Hummel would also coach Northern’s first two Academic All-Americans, proving that his accomplishments did not stop on the mat but continued in the classroom. The Wolves would greatly miss their long-time leader and would have trouble recovering from the great loss (“Hummel leaving Northern”, 1991). 1991-1992 The 1991-1992 season was the first year for new head coach Tom Gioglio. Gioglio took over for long time head coach Fran Hummel, who had left Northern for an athletics director position at Minot State University. Gioglio earned his bachelors degree from Montclair University in New Jersey and a master’s degree from Mansfield



The History of NSU Wrestling 54 University in Pennsylvania. Gioglio had spent the last three seasons as a graduate assistant at West Virginia University, a NCAA Division I school. Gioglio would have only two returning lettermen to anchor his line-up, both national qualifiers. Joel Johnson and Rob Lewis would be relied on heavily to pick up the slack from a depleted squad. Lewis would suffer a broken foot early in the season and would miss a large portion of the schedule. Some new faces that saw action and subsequent success for the Wolves were Lonnie West, Van Mansheim, and Lance Pearson. Mansheim’s success would be short lived however as he would suffer an injury early on in the season. The Wolves would finish the season with a dismal 2-10 record under first year head coach Tom Gioglio. No Northern wrestlers would claim conference titles and the Wolves would see only two wrestlers qualify for the national meet. Joel Johnson became Northern’s next All-American as he earned a sixth place finish in the 1992 NAIA National Tournament. The Wolves would finish in 29th place as a team and would hope to improve with their short line-up next season. Northern would have to add to their thirteen-member line-up if they wanted to see any success on the mat (Raw Data, NSU Sports Information Office, 1991-1992). 1992-1993 Tom Gioglio entered his second season with much the same team as he ended his first season. With the addition of some new freshman the Wolves were coming back to the mat with another young team. Leading the way for the Wolves would be junior Rob Lewis. Lewis who was a national qualifier as a freshman battled injury throughout the 1991-1992 season. He would be back in top form to bolster the line-up for Northern.



The History of NSU Wrestling 55 Also returning would be national qualifier Jeff Konstanz. Konstanz made the trip to the NAIA National Tournament the previous season, but failed to place in the meet. Some newcomers to the Northern line-up would make an immediate impact on the Wolves wrestling team. Pat Connell, Wade Rausch, and Rob Kostroun would each earn some key victories for the Wolves to lead the team during the season. Northern finished their 1992-1993 season with a 3-12-1 dual record, but the marks did not indicate the strength of the team. With a short line-up the Wolves saw the strength of their team evident at the tournaments that they wrestled in. The Wolves finished in third place in the NSIC meet with one NSIC Champion. Wade Rausch claimed his first ever NSIC Championship at 167 pounds to lead all Northern wrestlers. Rob Lewis also claimed a second place finish at heavyweight. The Wolves finished in third place as a team in the NSIC totals (“NSU matmen share”, 1993) Eight wrestlers qualified for the NAIA National Championships during the 19921993 season. Member of the team who represented the Wolves were Brian York (118), Jeff Konstanz (126) for the second straight season, Jeramie Eimers (142), Steve Deming (150), the teams lone senior, Pat Connell (158), Wade Rausch (167), Rob Kostroun (177), and Rob Lewis (HWT). Lewis cemented his place in the championships with a first place finish at the District 12 meet. He then went on to become Northern’s lone All-American for the 19921993 season. Lewis wrestled his way to the national championship match before being stopped just short of a national title. Lewis would help lead his team to a 17th place finish in the final team standings (“Northern heavyweight”, 1993). Rob Lewis would also set a



The History of NSU Wrestling 56 new benchmark in the Northern State History books as he compiled the most wins in a season with 39, ending his junior year with a 39-11 record. Another highlight of the year was the induction of Doug Neuharth into the NSU Hall of Fame. Neuharth was the Wolves first ever National Champion in 1968 and was a two-time SDIC Champion for Northern (“Six athletes going”, 1992). 1993-1994 With the graduation of only one senior from last year’s team the Wolves had high hopes entering the 1993-1994 season. Seven returning national qualifiers would highlight the line-up, which was anchored by heavyweight Rob Lewis. Lewis was the lone returning All-American for the Wolves as he ended last season in second place at the NAIA National Championships. Lewis would be one of only two seniors in the starting roster for Northern, the other being Lonnie West at 158 pounds. The Wolves would improve on last year’s unimpressive dual mark to finish the season with a 5-10 record. The Wolves would see eight men qualify for the National Championships this year. Making the trip for Northern were returning national heavyweight runner-up Rob Lewis, Brian York at 118 pounds, Jeramie Eimers at 142 pounds, Eric Tvinnereim at 150 pounds, Lonnie West at 158 pounds, Pat Connell at 167 pounds, Rob Kostroun at 177 pounds, and Russ Turner at 190 pounds. Only West and Lewis are seniors from that list. Lewis won his second District 12 championship of his career for the Wolves (Raw Data, NSU Sports Information Office, 1993-1994). Two Northern State Wrestlers would also win NSIC Conference Championships. Rob Lewis would earn his first championship of his career as well as Pat Connell. Both wrestlers would help Northern to a third place NSIC finish (“Lewis, Connell win”, 1994).



The History of NSU Wrestling 57 The end of the season would see the Wolves crown two All-Americans. Rob Lewis would earn his second All-American honor of his career with a fifth place finish at heavyweight while Connell would finish in eighth place at 167 pounds. Northern State University would also see new team records set in the 1993-1994 season. Rob Lewis would break the school records for most wins in a career, which was previously held by Bob Hirsch, and most pins in a career, which was previously held by Chris Lund, establishing 121 and 80 respectively. Rob Kostroun would also set the single season record for most wins in a season with 41 on the year; the previous record was 37 set by Dave Harvey in 1986. Kostroun just edged out Lewis who had 40 wins on the season (“Lewis shatters records”, 1994) 1994-1995 Tom Gioglio made some major adjustments to the NSU wrestling schedule in 1994. He added many of the nations top open tournaments to help prepare the Wolves for postseason competition. Gioglio would only have one senior on this year’s team and would be looking to build a solid program. Returning All-American Pat Connell would anchor the Northern State line-up during the 1994-1995 season. Connell, who had also won an NSIC title the previous season would get help from other returning national qualifiers in Rob Kostroun, who also holds the NSU record for wins in a season, Jeramie Eimers, and Brian York. Some new faces would also highlight the line-up for the Northern State wrestling team. Jay Stephan and Matt Skattum posted top individual performances to breakthrough into the Wolves starting roster. Kostroun and Connell also continued to lead the Wolves throughout the season (“Kostroun wins wrestling”, 1995).



The History of NSU Wrestling 58 The Wolves also made their first ever trip to Las Vegas, NV this season to take part in the NAIA National Dual wrestling tournament. The tournament is an invitational dual tournament that boasts the top teams in the NAIA ranks. The Wolves would win two of three duals at the championship event (“Northern wrestlers win 2 of 5”, 1995). The Wolves continued their 1994-1995 season with some outstanding performances. After finishing their dual season with a 6-9 mark, Northern was able to up their position in the NSIC ranks this season with a second place finish. Three wrestlers were able to garner titles for the Wolves. Jeramie Eimers finished in first place at 142 pounds as well as Jay Stephan at 150 pounds, and Frank Birch at heavyweight (Raw Data, NSU Sports Information Office, 1995). The Wolves were also able to qualify ten wrestlers for the NAIA National Championships during the 1994-1995 season. The Wolves would be represented by Brian York, Jay Stephan, Matt Skattum, David Peterson, Pat Connell, who would be looking for his second straight top eight place finish, Rob Kostroun, Jeramie Eimers, David Mohn, Shane Peters, and Matt Perrotto (“2 more NSU”, 1995). Two Northern State wrestlers would earn the status as All-Americans. Pat Connell finished in the sixth place position at 167 pounds and earned his second AllAmerican honors. Matt Skattum would be the second Northern wrestler to achieve that status during the 1994-1995 season. Skattum wrestled his way to an eighth place finish at 158 pounds. The Wolves finished the season with their third straight top 20 finish. Matt Perrotto was also named to the NAIA All-Academic team at the conclusion of the NAIA National Tournament.



The History of NSU Wrestling 59 This would also be Tom Gioglio’s last season as the Northern State University head coach. A surprising resignation at the end of the season left a void in the head coaching position. Gioglio cited the need for more time with his new wife and his career as a teacher as reasons for his resignation (“NSU Wrestling coach”, 1995). Gioglio had spent four seasons with the Wolves team and had compiled a dual record of 16-41-1 during his tenure at Northern. Gioglio also coached 6 All-Americans and five NSIC Champions, with one NSIC runner-up team. The Wolves would fill the position with Trevor Wilson, who had been the Wolves graduate assistant for two seasons under Fran Hummel and Tom Gioglio. 1995-1996 The beginning of the 1995-1996 season would see many changes in the Northern State University Wrestling program. First would be the start of Trevor Wilson’s career as the head coach of the Wolves wrestlers. The second would be the switch of the entire NSIC conference to the NCAA Division II ranks. With the recent success of many the NSIC teams in the NAIA national ranks the member institutions felt that a move was optimal and necessary. The move to NCAA Division II meant a great deal of changes in the NSU wrestling team. Not only would they have to include more member schools in their lineup but also they would have a different postseason qualifying procedure and would see far greater competition at the national level. Head coach Trevor Wilson was optimistic about the season. His team would be short, forfeiting two weight classes at every dual, but he would see three returning national qualifiers try to win matches for the team. Leading the list would be the two



The History of NSU Wrestling 60 returning All-Americans in Pat Connell and Matt Skattum. Academic All-American Matt Perrotto would also be back into the Northern State Line-up. Also posting fine season the year before and coming back for more were Rob Kostroun, Jeramie Eimers, Eric Tvinnereim, and Ryan Thorpe (“Wolves’ new coach eager”, 1995). The Wolves were able to post a disappointing 2-10 dual record throughout the season. Leading the Wolves with numerous tournament wins was sophomore Jay Stephan. Stephan posted a 31-2 record going into regional competition. Northern State crowned three NSIC Champions on the day. Ryan Thorpe won his first NSIC title at 134 pounds followed by Jay Stephan, who cleaned up his second title at 150 pounds. The third champion for the Wolves was Rob Kostroun, who earned his first title at 177 pounds. Northern also had four wrestlers finish the day in second place: Jeramie Eimers at 142 pounds, Matt Skattum at 158 pounds, Pat Connell at 167 pounds, and Dave Mohn at heavyweight. The Wolves were then off to the Midwest Regional. This would mark the first time that Northern State University would take part in a NCAA Division II postseason event. The Wolves would need to place wrestlers into the top two places to qualify for the NCAA Division II National Tournament (Raw Data, NSU Sports Information Office, 1996). One Northern State wrestler would meet the qualification to attend the NCAA Division II meet. Jay Stephan, with a second place finish at 150 pounds, will make the trip to Greely, CO for the final event. Stephan will be the second ranked wrestler at his weight entering the competition (NSU Sports Information Press Release, 1996). Stephan



The History of NSU Wrestling 61 will fail to place at his intended spot however as he ends his season as the sixth place finisher in the NCAA Division II National Tournament. Jay Stephan would be Northern State University’s first ever NCAA Division II All-American. The Wolves would also see two of their wrestlers named to the NCAA Academic All-American team. Matt Perrotto earns a spot on the Academic All-American team for the second straight year as well as Matt Skattum for the first time. The Wolves as a team also finished the year ranked seventh in the nation in cumulative grade point average, boasting a combined average of 2.94. This would be the first year that Northern State has had more than one academic qualifier (“Stephan sixth”, 1996). 1996-1997 The 1996-1997 season would see the Wolves start their downward spiral that would culminate in the 1999 season. Head coach Trevor Wilson, who was in his second season, would see his team post a dual record of 3-10, which for the most part was due to three to four forfeits at each match. The Wolves would start every dual down 18-24 points. Some highlights of the season were the places that the Wolves received at some of the most competitive wrestling tournaments in the nation. Dale Daugherty, a freshman from Huron, would be Northern’s only place finisher at the NDSU Bison open, claiming fourth place. Matt Skattum and Lance Opitz led the Wolves charge for most of the season, posting outstanding records and earning the only place finishes at many of the tournaments. Also posting an impressive record was returning NSIC Champion Ryan Thorpe. Skattum and Thorpe each won NSIC Championships for the Wolves during the 1996-1997 season. Thorpe had his second title of his career while Skattum had won his



The History of NSU Wrestling 62 first. Both wrestlers then went on to place in the Midwest Regional and earn a spot in the 1997 NCAA Division II National Tournament, held on the campus of North Dakota State University this season. Neither wrestler would win a match for the Wolves in what was their first season since 1987 that Northern had failed to place a wrestler in the national tournament. Both Skattum and Thorpe lost their first two matches and were eliminated from further competition. The two would not come home without some hardware however, as both were named to the NCAA Academic All-American team for their efforts in the classroom. This was Skattum’s second Academic All-American honor (Raw Data, NSU Sports Information Office, 1996-1997). 1997-1998 The 1997-1998 season started out with the return of both NSIC Champions and both NCAA national qualifiers. Skattum and Thorpe were both back in the line-up for the Wolves and third year head coach Trevor Wilson. Also returning for the Wolves would be NSIC runner-up Dale Daugherty. Daugherty earned a second place finish at 190 pounds last season. Along with Skattum and Thorpe, Lance Opitz and Dave Mohn round out the Wolves list of senior wrestlers. Both Opitz and Mohn have posted impressive statistics for their careers. Northern posted a dual record of 2-11 on the season, one of the worst dual records since the Wolves first year of wrestling which they failed to win a dual. Tournaments would again be the strong showing for the team as most of the season saw forfeits and losses for the wrestlers. Highlighting the list of accomplishments for the 1997-1998 season was the rise of Skattum and Thorpe to the top of the NSIC ranks for the second straight year. The same



The History of NSU Wrestling 63 wrestlers won titles this season as well as Thorpe garnering a title the season before. Also placing for the Wolves would be freshman Cory Schwartz in second place at 134 pounds. Nate Nihill, a red shirt freshman who placed third at 118 pounds, and Ron Dougherty, a red shirt freshman who came in at the third spot at 126 pounds. The Wolves would see only one of their two NSIC Champions make the trip to the NCAA Division II National Tournament. Ryan Thorpe earned a second place finish at 142 pounds to secure his spot at the championships. Matt Skattum was just out of reach as he was fifth at 158 pounds for the Wolves. Thorpe would go on to end his season with elimination at the NCAA National Tournament and the Wolves were left without an All-American for the second straight year. The Northern State Wolves team was selected as the twelfth highest ranked team as far a GPA was concerned with a team cumulative average of 2.935. The Wolves saw two of their wrestlers selected to the NCAA Division II Academic All-American team. Matt Skattum earned his third Academic honor while Ryan Thorpe achieved the list for the second time in his career (Raw Data, NSU Sports Information Office, 1998). 1998-1999 The 1998-1999 season saw Trevor Wilson bring in a strong core of returning lettermen, headed by seniors Lance Opitz and David Mohn. Both would be looking to make an impact in the NSIC and on the National setting during their final seasons. Also returning to the line-up would be Dale Daugherty, who had been injured last season and was not forced to use a year of eligibility. Wilson also brought in a strong core of freshman to the roster. With as many newcomers as returners the Wolves would again be putting a young team on the mat.



The History of NSU Wrestling 64 Leading the list of freshman were Nick Nihill and Anthony Bartlett, both state champion wrestlers from Idaho. Aberdeen native Joey Krause was also added to the line-up. Krause had been a SD State A Wrestling Champion for Aberdeen Central High School. The Wolves would post a 3-10 record on the season with one NSIC Champion. Dale Daugherty won his first championship after earning a second place finish two season’s earlier. Daugherty would also be the Wolves only national qualifier and AllAmerican. Daugherty, after finishing second in the Midwest Regional his opponent from Central Oklahoma, would go on to capture a seventh place finish in the NCAA Division II National Tournament held in Omaha, NE. The Wolves also added more wrestlers to their ever-growing list of Academic AllAmericans. Both Dale Daugherty and Jason Hulshof would be listed in the nation’s elite. The Wolves would find themselves down one spot to thirteenth in the NCAA Division II team GPA ranks this season. 1999-2000 The start of the 1999-2000 season was one of optimism for head coach Trevor Wilson. Wilson had led the Wolves for the past four seasons and had seen little success in the teams move to the NCAA Division II ranks. Wilson saw were the wrestling program was headed and he didn’t like it. Knowing the Wolves would need a stellar season to keep their program alive, Wilson recruited over ten new wrestlers to help anchor his line-up. With only one senior on the team, Jason Hulshof, and one returning AllAmerican, Dale Daugherty the Wolves were looking to break through in the NCAA ranks.



The History of NSU Wrestling 65 The season didn’t turn out the way the Wolves would have hoped however. Despite the new recruits that Wilson brought in, Northern just couldn’t pull it together for the 1999-2000 season. The Wolves posted a dismal 5-10-1 dual record on their way to a second place finish at the NSIC tournament. The only Northern wrestler to win an NSIC title was Jason Hulshof at heavyweight. The Wolves also failed to qualify anyone for the NCAA Division II National Tournament. This had been the first year since joining the NCAA ranks that the Wolves had failed to send anyone to the tournament. The 1999-2000 season was the worst season in Northern State Wrestling history. Even the large group of recruits could not pull the Wolves from the bottom of the NCAA barrel. The athletics program at Northern had also noticed this change in the program. With increased pressure from the University and other teams in the athletics department, Athletic Director Bob Olson needed to come up with more money, or decrease the amount being spent. To do this he decided to take away from the budget, which in turn meant the subsequent dropping of the wrestling team. Olson had made a choice to discontinue varsity wrestling at Northern. The Wolves wrestlers had hit rock bottom; they were being cut. The wrestlers decided that giving up was not an option. Even though they had failed to see success on the mat, they were not going to stand for people to give up on them. With the help of the same people that were on the team at the time that it was dropped, the Wolves wrestlers banned together and fought to keep wrestling alive at Northern State University.



The History of NSU Wrestling 66 The wrestlers did the only thing they could do, provide Athletic Director Olson with the funding necessary to keep wrestling alive. To do this the Wolves wrestlers relied on the help of the Student Association. The Student Association was in charge of dividing the money raised from the Student Activity fees, for the use of different campus entities. The Student Association decided that they would pledge $30,000 to the athletics program for a period of two years as long as the Athletics Department would keep the wrestling program alive. The Wolves wrestlers had won, they had their program back. Now was the time to decide what to do with it. Head Coach Trevor Wilson had already decided, even before the year began, that he would be leaving Northern, and Aberdeen, to pursue a career as an Athletics Director. The Wolves wrestlers needed a new head coach. Northern State University hired Patrick Timm as the new head coach in the spring of 2000. Timm, a native of Huron, SD, had wrestled for SDSU and was a two time AllAmerican. Timm had also served as a graduate assistant for two seasons for the Jackrabbits. 2000-2001 With the start of the new millennium the Wolves wrestling program saw some very drastic changes from the previous year. Newly hired head coach Patrick Timm had high hopes for his new wrestling team. A graduate of South Dakota State University, Timm was a two time NCAA Division II All-American. His new style of coaching was just what the wrestlers of Northern State University needed. Timm brought immediate changes to the program from the previous years. In dual matches the Wolves were focused on becoming a more competitive team. They accomplished just that, winning their first dual victory over Moorhead in a number of years. Northern State also saw



The History of NSU Wrestling 67 some very tough competition and rose to the challenge, losing most duals, but still competing in every sense of the word. The year was capped by having two Wolves earn NSIC Conference Championship honors and three runner-ups. Joey Krause (184) and Baron Blanchard (HWT) each dominated the competition to claim first place honors. Coming in second place for the wolves were Chris Feldhaus (125), Richard Goethals (133), and Dale Daugherty (197). Northern State University also sent three wrestlers to the national tournament during the 2000-2001 season, a huge improvement from the previous season that saw no wrestlers from NSU qualify. Krause, Daugherty, and Blanchard each finished in the top four at their respective weight classes to earn a spot at the NCAA Division II National Championships. Northern failed to place anyone at the tournament, but still was pleased with the improvements made on the season. 2001-2002 The second season under head coach Patrick Timm again saw the Wolves make improvements to their program. For the first time in 16 years the Wolves were atop the NSIC Conference standings. After beating both Morris and Southwest State, Northern was poised for success with one final match to go. NSU wrestled Moorhead on their home mat in front of the largest crown the Wolves wrestlers had drawn in over 4 years. The crowd got what they wanted in a very close match. With just two matches to go the Wolves were down by eight points. Freshman Cory Wellnitz stepped on the mat needing a win to keep Northern’s hopes of a conference championship alive. With the crowd on their feet Wellnitz came from a fivepoint deficit to pin his Moorhead opponent and set up the final match of the evening to



The History of NSU Wrestling 68 decide the conference title. Heavyweight Baron Blanchard, a mountain of a man who tipped the scale at over 270 pounds came to the mat to represent Northern in the final match. Blanchard, a returning NSIC Conference champion, needed only a win to claim victory for his team. After getting behind early Blanchard turned up the pace and cruised to a three-point victory. The Wolves had gone from a dropped program just two years earlier to NSIC Conference Champions. The Wolves had another strong showing at the NSIC Conference tournament, placing four wrestlers as conference champions. Winning titles for the Wolves were Richard Goethals (133), Dana Dargatz (149), Joey Krause (184), and Baron Blanchard (HWT). For leading his team to an NSIC Conference Championship and having four wrestlers earn individual championship honors head coach Patrick Timm was named the NSIC Coach of the Year. Another highlight of the 2001-2002 was the fact that Northern State University would be host to the Midwest Regional. The Midwest Regional, a qualifying tournament for the NCAA National Championships, is composed of 11 teams, all fighting for the top four spots in each weight class. The NSU wrestlers entered the tournament with two returning national qualifiers in Joey Krause and Baron Blanchard. Blanchard repeated as a national qualifier and was joined by senior Cory Anderson. Anderson, who wrestled 174 pounds, earned a second place finish while Blanchard also finished in second place. Both Anderson and Blanchard then went on to compete in the NCAA National Tournament held in Kenosha, WI on the campus of the University of Wisconsin, Parkside. Both wrestlers would be eliminated from the tournament but only after gaining



The History of NSU Wrestling 69 wins in their first two matches of the competition. Blanchard was one match away from becoming Northern’s first All-American in three years. 2002-2003 With the start of the 2002-2003 season the Wolves were coming in at the top of the NSIC ranks. Having won the title last season, everyone from the NSIC would be shooting for them this season. The Wolves had two returning national qualifiers in their line-up, Baron Blanchard at heavyweight and Joey Krause at 184 pounds. Both would anchor the Wolves line-up throughout the season. The Wolves would also see the team achieve marks that had not been met in a number of years. Northern got their first victory over the University of Mary in 15 years. Mary, who had been a powerhouse in the NAIA ranks since the early 90’s dropped a 2415 score to the visiting Wolves on their home mat. Blanchard got a decisive victory to seal the dual win when he won an overtime decision over returning NCAA Division II National Champion Jon Madsen, who had transferred to Mary by way of SDSU. Northern also went on to record their first winning season under head coach Patrick Timm, going 6-5 in dual action. At the NSIC Conference Tournament the Wolves saw two wrestlers finish in the top spot to earn Champion honors. Cory Wellnitz won the 197-pound weight class while Blanchard got his third title of his career at heavyweight. Jason Hill, who had a strong showing for Northern all season finished in second place and earned NSIC Rookie of the Year honors in the process. The Wolves came up short in the team race however, which was decided on dual scores during the season, dropping a dual to Moorhead by a score of 25-12 to finish in second place.



The History of NSU Wrestling 70 The Wolves then headed to the Midwest Regional, held on the campus of Truman State University. Two Wolves earned second place honors to vault them into the National Tournament. Baron Blanchard qualified for the NCAA nationals for his third straight year with a second place finish. Also earning a spot was Cory Wellnitz. This was Wellnitz’s first time qualifying for the National Tournament. At the NCAA Division II National Tournament the Wolves saw their first AllAmerican since Dale Daugherty achieved that honor in the 1998-1999 season. Baron Blanchard wrestled his way to a seventh place finish after dropping matches to the eventual National Champion and the returning National Champion in that weight class. The Wolves ended the year as the number 29th place team in the NCAA Division II National Tournament, the highest placing Northern has achieved since joining the NCAA ranks in 1995. 2003-2004 The Wolves wrestlers started the 2003-2004 season with two returning NSIC Conference Champions and two returning national qualifiers, Cory Wellnitz and Baron Blanchard. Head coach Patrick Timm also had a strong core of incoming freshman that had the opportunity to enter the line-up. Andy Sinclair, who had been an outstanding prep athlete from Gregory South Dakota, entered the Wolves line-up right away and had an immediate impact on the team. Sinclair earned a NSIC Championship during his freshman campaign and was a NCAA National Qualifier. Even though Sinclair was not an All-American he still contributed to the Wolves team score with one win and was one match away from earning his first All-American honors.



The History of NSU Wrestling 71 The Wolves finished in second place in the NSIC Conference team race for the second straight year, losing to Moorhead in the championship dual. Joining Sinclair, as conference champions were Baron Blanchard and Cory Wellnitz, who had each repeated as champs. Blanchard earned his fourth NSIC Championship in his senior season, a feat that hadn’t been accomplished before in Northern’s history. The Wolves finished the 2003-2004 season with an 8-11 dual mark and qualified three wrestlers for the NCAA National Tournament held in Mankato, MN. Qualifying for the National Tournament with Sinclair were Jamie Andersh at 133 pounds and Baron Blanchard at Heavyweight. This would be Blanchard’s fourth time qualifying for the tournament in which he gained All-American status last season with a seventh place finish. Blanchard who had been ranked as high as 2nd in the nation during the season would be trying to become Northern’s first national champion since Dave Harvey. Blanchard would come up short however, losing his first match of the tournament by a 53 score. Blanchard would not be satisfied however; as he came back through to win the rest of his matches and earn a third place finish in the National Tournament. Blanchard earned his second All-American honors while freshman Jamie Andersh earned his first. Andersh wrestled to an eighth place finish at the 133-pound weight class. The Wolves had seen their most productive year in recent history. Finishing the year as the number 15th place team in the nation and finishing ahead of many of the nation’s top schools, the Wolves were back on track and earning the school’s wrestling program the respect it deserves on the heels of head coach Patrick Timm.



The History of NSU Wrestling 72 Conclusion Wrestling has been around for many centuries, dating back to ancient Roman times. Some of the nation’s most respected leaders have been wrestlers. Northern State University started their wrestling program in the fall of 1959 and the program has grown to become a very respectable NCAA Division II program. The Wolves have risen through the NAIA ranks and have grown into an NCAA Division II program that has brought the school much needed publicity. Northern State has seen some of the best wrestlers in NAIA and NCAA history wrestle for their program and attend their school. Through my research I have learned a great deal about the history of Northern State University’s wrestling program. Since its inception Northern State has seen 66 SDIC and NSIC Conference Champions as well as 33 NAIA and NCAA Division II AllAmericans. The Wolves have also posted 26 Academic All-Americans since the program was started. For a complete listing of all record holders, champions, and All-Americans see Appendix A.



The History of NSU Wrestling 73



References 2 more NSU wrestlers qualify for national. (1995, Feb 25). Aberdeen American News, p. 2D. 12 grapplers return for coming season. (1967, Nov. 9). The Exponent, p. 7. B squad wrestlers to tackle Dusties. (1962, Jan. 25). The Exponent, p. 3. Bryant, Niederbaumer garner third place honors at St. Cloud. (1972, Dec 15). The Exponent, p. 5 Chase, G. (n.d.). All in Wrestling – Submission Wrestling. Retrieved November 24, 2003, from http://www.guychase.com/p5.html Clark finishes fifth in the nation. (1988, March 17). The Exponent, p. 7. Denzin, N. K. & Lincoln, Y. S. (2000). Handbook of Qualitative Research. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications. Disappointment for Lager. (1990, Jan 10). Aberdeen American News, p. 1D. Ditchfield, C. (2000). Wrestling: A True Book. New York: Children’s Press. Eight NSC matmen to compete in nationals. (1986, Feb 27). The Exponent, p. 6. Enthusiastic fans cheer mat team to 27-3 margin. (1960, Dec. 15). The Exponent, p. 3. Everson only wrestler to advance in competition. (1987, March 26). The Exponent, p. 7. Fran Hummel, personal communication, 1981 Glader, Krider capture titles as grapplers finish second. (1965, March 11). The Exponent, p. 3. Grapplers advance to nationals. (1975, March 13). The Exponent, p. 3. Grapplers begin season. (1979, Nov 29). The Exponent, p. 11.



The History of NSU Wrestling 74 Grapplers capture second in tourney. (1963, March 14). The Exponent, p. 3. Grapplers compete at nationals. (1978, March 30). The Exponent, p. 15. Grapplers compete in NAIA. (1969, March 18). The Exponent, p. 4. Grapplers debut in Bison Open. (1974, Nov 14). The Exponent, p. 3. Grapplers drop dual match finale. (1974, Feb 21). The Exponent, p. 3. Grapplers earn fourth. (1974, Feb 28). The Exponent, p. 7. Grapplers earn runner-up honors. (1974, Jan 17). The Exponent, p. 3. Grapplers fall prey to SDSC bunnies. (1960, Feb 25). The Exponent, p. 3. Grapplers finish second in quadrangular meet. (1964, Dec. 10). The Exponent, p. 3. Grapplers garner third place finish; Bryant captures individual class title. (1973, Jan 12). The Exponent, p. 3. Grapplers in SDIC Tournament play. (1966, March 3). The Exponent, p. 5. Grapplers meet Jamestown College. (1960, Jan. 21). The Exponent, p. 5. Grapplers open season. (1973, Nov 29). The Exponent, p. 3. Grapplers open season by splitting three duals. (1972, Dec 8). The Exponent, p. 4. Grapplers prepare for mat opener. (1976, Dec 2). The Exponent, p. 7. Grapplers prepare for season with 13 returning lettermen. (1968, Nov 7). The Exponent, p. 9. Grapplers post 1-3 dual record. (1974, Feb 7). The Exponent, p. 6. Grapplers take tourney. (1976, Dec 16). The Exponent, p. 7. Grapplers triumph for second victory. (1961, Jan. 12). The Exponent, p. 3. Grappler workouts begin for season. (1960, Nov. 17). The Exponent, p. 3. Harvey leads matmen to championship. (1985, March 14). The Exponent, p. 11.



The History of NSU Wrestling 75 Hills outing rough on NSTC matmen. (1960, Feb. 18). The Exponent, p. 3. Hummel Leaving Northern. (1991, May 24). Aberdeen American News, p. 1D. Hummel, Wachs named coaches of the year. (1985, March 14). The Exponent, p. 1 Huron wins wrestling tourney; Mike Nelson takes first place. (1972, March 2). The Exponent, p. 5. Jensen cops third place in wrestling tournament. (1971, March 18). The Exponent, p. 5. Jensen, Jones cop conference titles. (1970, March 5). The Exponent, p. 5. Jensen wins at St. Cloud Tourney; Jones, Johnston lose close decisions. (1970, Dec 17). The Exponent, p. 5. Jensen wins twice in NAIA. (1970, April 3). The Exponent, p. 4. Jim Stout, NSTC wrestler rates District NAIA squad. (1961, March 9). The Exponent, p. 3. Jim Stout shares top mat rating at No. Dak. Meet. (1961, Dec. 21). The Exponent, p. 3. Koch shines in mat invite. (1968, Jan 18). The Exponent, p. 7. Kostroun wins wrestling title for Northern. (1995, Jan 8). Aberdeen American News, p. 4D. Lewis, Connell win league championships. (1994, Feb 12). Aberdeen American News, p. 3D. Lewis Shatters records en route to title. (1994, Feb 28). Aberdeen American News, p. 1B. Marr-Hugunin, L. & Nichols, H. J. (1986). A History of Wrestling at Iowa State University, 1912-1985. Unpublished research, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa. Marshall, C. & Rossman, G. B. (1989). Designing Qualitative Research. Newbury Park, CA: Sage Publications.



The History of NSU Wrestling 76 Marx, D. (1994). Wrestling. Vero Beach, FL: Rourke Corporation, Inc. Mat maids spark wrestling interest. (1973, Dec 13). The Exponent, p. 3. Mat squad blanks Southern Pointers. (1962, Jan. 18). The Exponent, p. 3. Mat Wolves score wins over DSC, Springfield. (1979, Jan 18). The Exponent, p. 7. Matmen compete in Bison open. (1975, Nov 20). The Exponent, p. 3. Matmen curtailed in first encounter. (1962, Dec 20). The Exponent, p. 3. Matmen end season beating Jamestown. (1961, Feb. 23). The Exponent, p. 3. Matmen finish season seventh in nation. (1986, March 13). The Exponent, p. 7. Matmen place at regionals. (1979, Feb 15). The Exponent, p. 7. Matmen win four straight. (1980, Jan 17). The Exponent, p. 7. Moorhead takes NAIA title; Neu wins sixth at 167 pounds. (1964, April 3). The Exponent, p. 3. Myron Bryant, Personal Communication, July 16, 2004. NAIA tourney won by Pennsylvanians. (1962, March 22). The Exponent, p. 3. Nardo, D. (2002). History of Sports: Wrestling. San Diego, CA: Lucent Books, Inc. NDSU grapplers outscore Wolves. (1965, Feb. 4). The Exponent, p. 3. Neuharth earns NAIA championship. (1968, March 14). The Exponent, p. 7. Niederbaumer earns fourth in meet. (1973, March 23). The Exponent, p. 7. Niederbaumer claims second. (1974, March 14). The Exponent, p. 3. Non-Conference wrestling match brings defeat. (1987, Dec 17). The Exponent, p. 7. Northern grapplers place high. (1978, Dec 14). The Exponent, p. 7. Northern grapplers fall to Jamestown. (1960, Feb. 4). The Exponent, p. 3. Northern heavyweight hung on to become All-American. (1993, March 10). Aberdeen



The History of NSU Wrestling 77 American News, p. 1D. Northern hosts Jamestown grapplers as matmen appear in campus debut. (1960, Feb. 11). The Exponent, p. 3. Northern is runnerup; Yellowjackets win title. (1966, March 17). The Exponent, p. 3. Northern matmen place at St. Cloud Invitational. (1975, Dec 11). The Exponent, p. 7. Northern matmen split dual match. (1976, Feb 19). The Exponent, p. 3. Northern matmen undefeated in three conference tests. (1962, Feb. 8). The Exponent, p. 4. Northern welcomes new faculty. (1978, Oct 15). The Exponent, p. 3. Northern wrestlers capture triple-dual meet, garner three victories in successful showing. (1969, Feb 20). The Exponent, p. 5. Northern Wrestlers win 2 of 5 duals in Las Vegas. (1995, Feb 5). Aberdeen American News, p. 3D. Northern will host District 12 NAIA Wrestling Tourney. (1961, Nov. 9). The Exponent, p. 5. NSC, Black Hills share SDIC wrestling honors. (1969, March 6). The Exponent, p. 5. NSC matmen tie for district 12 championship. (1986, Feb 27). The Exponent, p. 6. NSC sends eight matmen to NAIA; Hummel looks toward next year. (1980, March 13). The Exponent, p. 1. NSC wrestlers break chain, capture mat conference crown. (1968, March 8). The Exponent, p. 7. NSTC matmen end season with capture of two titles. (1962, March 15). The Exponent, p. 3.



The History of NSU Wrestling 78 NSTC wrestlers win opening meet against Jimmies. (1961, Dec. 21). The Exponent, p. 3. NSU matmen share third in NSIC meet. (1993, Feb 14). Aberdeen American News, p. 1D. NSU News Bureau. (1985 NSU Wrestling coach resigns. (1995, March 25). Aberdeen American News, p. 2D. Pack turns tables on hills wrestlers to stage 14-11 win. (1963 Feb 21). The Exponent, p. 3. Parkinson wins SDIC Crown, grapplers capture fifth place. (1973, March 2) The Exponent, p. 5. Peters earns eight-place finish. (1990, March 21). Aberdeen American News, p. 2D. Prelim Exhibitions introduce mat men. (1962, Nov. 21). The Exponent, p. 3. Sandelson, R. (1991). Combat Sports. New York: Crestwood House. Six athletes going into Hall of Fame. (1992, Oct 1). Aberdeen American News, p. 10. Southwest State wins Northern Invite. (1989, Jan 19). The Exponent, p. 10. Steffen, Rhonda. (1984). Men’s Wrestling. Pasque, 75, 124-125. Stephan sixth in nation. (1996, March 17). Aberdeen American News, p. 1D. Thomas, C. (n.d.). Wrestling and Greece. Retrieved November 24, 2003, from http://www.personal.psu.edu/users/b/s/bss148/ART2/wrestling.htm Three matmen possess NIC titles. (1990, Feb 15). The Exponent, p. 10. Three NSC wrestlers place at meet. (1984, Nov 29). The Exponent, p. 9. Timm, P. (2000). History of South Dakota State University Wrestling. Unpublished research paper, South Dakota State University, Brookings, South Dakota. Top matmen enter national tourney to wind up year. (1964, March 12). The Exponent, p.



The History of NSU Wrestling 79 3. Tough Schedule makes road for wrestlers rocky. (1978, Dec 7). The Exponent, p. 7. Tribe dominates stats; Parkinson tops division. (1973, Feb 9). The Exponent, p. 5. Two title holders to lead wolfpack in SDIC Tourney. (1963 Feb 28). The Exponent, p. 4. VanderLugt takes second. (1979, Feb 22). The Exponent, p. 3. Varsity matmen host quadrangular; grappler hopefuls show potential. (1966, Dec. 1). The Exponent, p. 7. Varsity wrestlers travel to N. Dak. (1960, Jan. 28). The Exponent, p. 3. Vogt selected as Dean of Men. (1960, April 21). The Exponent, p. 3. Wrestlers absorb thumping in rugged quadrangular meet. (1963, Feb. 7). The Exponent, p. 4. Wrestlers begin season by hosting quadrangular. (1969, Dec 4). The Exponent, p. 5. Wrestlers capture triangular meet. (1968, Jan 11). The Exponent, p.7. Wrestlers compete in two tourneys. (1977, Dec 8). The Exponent, p. 3. Wrestlers debut at Fargo. (1974, Nov 21) The Exponent, p. 3. Wrestlers drop Augie, lose to Huron. (1978, Feb 9). The Exponent, p. 3. Wrestlers end season 7-5: Enter tourneys this weekend. (1980, Feb 14). The Exponent, p. 10. Wrestlers get win in meet over Minot. (1963, Jan 31). The Exponent, p. 3. Wrestlers grapple AAU mats; Koch directs amateur events. (1967, April 6). The Exponent, p. 5. Wrestlers open practice; veterans bolster team. (1972, Nov 10). The Exponent, p. 5. Wrestlers place second in league. (1971, March 11). The Exponent, p. 5.



The History of NSU Wrestling 80 Wrestlers prepare for nationals. (1980, Feb 28). The Exponent, p. 7. Wrestlers split two in rugged west river jaunt. (1963, Feb 14). The Exponent, p. 4. Wrestlers split with NoDaks; Face rabbits at State College. (1962, Feb. 22). The Exponent, p. 3. Wrestlers stay on top. (1983, Dec 1). The Exponent, p. 11. Wrestlers sweep weekend contests; prepare for league match Feb. 25. (1970, Feb 19). The Exponent, p. 7. Wrestlers take three individual honors. (1987, March 5). The Exponent, p. 7. Wrestling coach optimistic. (1978, Nov 30). The Exponent, p. 6. Wrestling program charted for year. (1959, Nov. 9). The Exponent, p. 4. Wrestling schedule released; quadrangular opens season. (1965, Oct. 28). The Exponent, p. 3. Wrestling season opens with wins in early matches. (1969, Dec 18). The Exponent, p. 6. Wrestling Wolves expect good year. (1989, Oct 11). Aberdeen American News, p. 1D. Wolf bid SDIC second; Asmussen wins mat title. (1967, March 9). The Exponent, p. 5. Wolf Grapplers earn second place as hills wins conference tourney. (1964, March 12). The Exponent, p. 3. Wolf grapplers finish second. (1967, Dec 7). The Exponent, p. 7. Wolf wrestlers set for Chadron meet; plan tough season. (1969, Jan 30). The Exponent, p. 5. Wolves attend tourney. (1977, March 17). The Exponent, p. 7. Wolves begin wrestling season; alumni whips varsity. (1983, Nov 17). The Exponent, p. 10.



The History of NSU Wrestling 81 Wolves capture seventh in opener. (1976, Dec 9). The Exponent, p. 3. Wolves continue success with two victories. (1971, Feb 25). The Exponent, p. 5. Wolves down Trojans in dual meet. (1972, Feb. 25). The Exponent, p. 3. Wolves fall 21-3; Brown gets win. (1963, March 14). The Exponent, p. 3. Wolves have successful opener; sweep three matches in triple dual. (1970, Dec 10). The Exponent, p.4. Wolves host tournament. (1974, Dec 12). The Exponent, p. 3. Wolves lose 1, win 2; entertain Beavers next. (1963, Jan 24). The Exponent, p. 3. Wolves New coach eager. (1995, Nov 28). Aberdeen American News, p. 10. Wolves overwhelm Jimtown matmen. (1963, Jan 17). The Exponent, p. 5. Wolves undefeated in dual matches. (1972, Feb 17). The Exponent, p. 5. Woods and Berndt join coaching staff. (1963, Sept. 19). The Exponent, p. 5.



Other Information Sources Raw Data, NSU Sports Information Office, 1959-2004. NSU Sports Information Office Press Releases, 1959-2004.



The History of NSU Wrestling 82 Appendix A Career Leaders/ Individual Records Most Takedowns, season Dave Harvey Most Takedowns, career Dave Harvey Most Pins, season Chris Lund Most pins, career Rob Lewis Most Team Points, season Chris Lund Most Team Points, career Doyle Everson Most Wins, season Rob Kostroun Most Wins, career Rob Lewis Best Record, season Dave Harvey 30 Win Seasons Chris Lund Bob Hirsch Jim Fryer Blaine McCance Doyle Everson Dave Harvey Eddie Clark John Trevett Mike Wiley Rod Bradley Rob Lewis Rob Kostroun Pat Connell Jeramie Eimers Brian York Jay Stephan Baron Blanchard Andy Sinclair 100 Career Wins Chris Lund Bob Hirsch Doyle Everson Eddie Clark Dave Harvey John Trevett Rod Bradley Rob Lewis Baron Blanchard 148 388 29 80 186 600 41 121 37-0 1985-1986 1982-1986 1981-1982 1990-1994 1981-1982 1983-1987 1993-1994 1990-1994 1985-1986



113-38



Team Records Highest finish in NSIC Tournament Most NSIC Champions 1st 4 1986, 2001 84-85, 85-86, 01-02



The History of NSU Wrestling 83 Best dual meet record against NSIC Highest Finish in District 12 Tournament Best Dual meet record Most District champion in season Highest Finish in NAIA Tournament Highest National team ranking Highest NCAA Division II Finish Most Academic All Americans in a season Coaches Records Head Coach Years Number of Seasons Dual Record Don Vogt 1959-1963 4 seasons 21-17 - Coached 6 SDIC Champions and 1 Team Championship (Unofficially) Don Woods 1964-1973 & 1974-1978 15 seasons 110-5 - Coached 5 All-Americans and 20 SDIC Champions Jon Horning 1973-1974 1 season - Coached 1 All-American and 3 SDIC Champions Fran Hummel 1979-1991 13 seasons 82-3 - Coached 16 All-Americans and 18 NSIC Champions Tom Gioglio 1991-1995 4 seasons 1 - Coached 6 All-Americans and 5 NSIC Champions Trevor Wilson 1995-2000 5 seasons 1 - Coached 2 All-Americans and 9 NSIC Champions Patrick Timm 2000-present 5 seasons - Coached 4 All-Americans and 11 NSIC Champions 1304-0 1st 17-3 4 3rd 2nd 15th 4 1986 1962, 1985, 1986 1971 1986 1985 1986 2004 2005



6-10



115-



16-41-



15-51-



33-40



The History of NSU Wrestling 84



NSU All Americans Year 1964 1968 1971 1973 1974 1978 1981 1983 1985 Name Norm Neu Doug Neuharth Jim Jensen Curt Niederbaumer Curt Niederbaumer Doug Kehrer Bob Hirsch Chris Lund Bob Hirsch Dave Harvey Doyle Everson Blaine McCance Jim Fryer Mike Wiley Dave Harvey Scott Thompson John Trevett Eddie Clark Rich Voegeli Rich Peters Rich Peters Rod Bradley Joel Johnson Rob Lewis Rob Lewis Pat Connell Pat Connell Matt Skattum Jay Stephan Dale Daugherty Baron Blanchard Baron Blanchard Jamie Andersh Cory Wellnitz Weight 167 130 150 HWT HWT 134 134 HWT 134 118 126 190 HWT 118 126 150 190 134 134 177 177 190 134 HWT HWT 167 167 158 158 197 HWT HWT 133 197 Place 6th 1st 3rd 4th 2nd 6th 7th 8th 7th 1st 2nd 2nd 3rd 6th 1st 7th 7th 5th 7th 8th 4th 5th 6th 2nd 5th 8th 6th 8th 6th 7th 7th 3rd 8th 8th



1986



1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1999 2003 2004 2005



The History of NSU Wrestling 85 NSIC Champions Year 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1990 1991 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 Wrestler Chris Lund Blaine McCance Dave Harvey, John Trevett, Blaine McCance Mike Wiley, Dave Harvey, John Trevett, Tim Weisz Mike Wiley, Doyle Everson, Trevor Clark Eddie Clark Ben Risseuw, Rich Peters, Rod Bradley Rich Peters, Rod Bradley Wade Rausch Rob Lewis Jay Stephan, Frank Birch, Jeremie Eimers Ryan Thorpe, Jay Stephan, Rob Kostroun Matt Skattum Ryan Thorpe Matt Skattum, Ryan Thorpe Dale Daugherty Jason Hulshof Joey Krause, Baron Blanchard Richard Goethals, Dana Dargatz, Joey Krause, Baron Blanchard Cory Wellnitz, Baron Blanchard Andy Sinclair, Cory Wellnitz, Baron Blanchard



SDIC Champions Year 1964 1965 1967 1968 1969 1970 1971 1972 1973 1974 Wrestler Doug Glader, Bob Brown Dave Krider, Doug Glader Brian Asmussen Doug Neuharth, Chet Jones, Chuck Keeler, Kerry Johnston Doug Neuharth, Jim Jensen, Chet Jones, Kerry Johnston Jim Jensen, Chet Jones Mike Nelson, Jim Jensen, Daryl Schmidt Mike Nelson Jerry Parkinson Jerry Parkinson, Myron Bryant, Curt Niederbaumer



The History of NSU Wrestling 86 Academic All-Americans Year 1989 1990 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 Wrestler Rich Voegeli Rod Bradley Matt Perrotto Matt Perrotto, Matt Skattum Matt Skattum, Ryan Thorpe Matt Skattum, Ryan Thorpe Dale Daugherty, Jason Hulshof Dale Daugherty, Jason Hulshof, Todd Currey Dale Daugherty, Baron Blanchard, Todd Currey, Brent Babcock Baron Blanchard, Todd Currey, Cory Wellnitz Baron Blanchard, Cory Wellnitz, Brent Babcock Baron Blanchard, Cory Wellnitz, Jason Hill Cory Wellnitz, Chas Welch, Jason Hill, Jess Hockley