Johnnies travel out of state to officially kick off new season

The SJU wrestling team is back on the mat and ready to gear up for the season.

The Johnnie wrestling team officially started their 2021-22 wrestling season over the weekend at University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point.

Three Johnnies placed at the tournament, which puts the Johnnies in a good position to start the season.

The SJU wrestling team had a very unconventional season last year, with COVID restrictions and a lack of tournaments in the state.

The MIAC does not offer men’s wrestling as a sport for the conference, so the team must look elsewhere for tournaments and competitions.

This resulted in the team taking many out-of-state tournament opportunities.

Because of quarantine and COVID rules, out-of-state competitions were often canceled, leaving the Johnnies with few opportunities last year.

“Last year we have a very limited schedule and most of that ended up being canceled. We currently have a full schedule and have every intention of making all the events, including the NCAA Qualifier and the National tournament,” head coach Kevin Schiltz said.

With less restrictions this season, the Johnnies have many competition opportunities and practice looks more like it did pre-COVID.

“I do believe it is really freeing to have less COVID restrictions on us. We are able to get back to full team practices and workouts without wearing masks and such… it feels really great,” junior Julian Mares said.

The team boasts a younger team this year, with 15 first-years and 11 sophomores. However, Schiltz is taking this season as an opportunity to build up college mat experience.

“We are progressing every day making the changes necessary to make that big leap from high school wrestling to college wrestling,” Schiltz said.

This season brings new athletes and with it, high hopes and big goals for the season.

“We have a tough regionals and it would be great to represent SJU on that podium,” Mares said.

With a younger team, the Johnnies are hoping to let other universities know that Johnnie wrestling is one to watch out for.

“We have a lot of talented young guys on our team, so our goal is simply to go out and compete with the best there is and put people on notice this season,” Mares said.

Schiltz echoed saying that he expects several Johnnie wrestlers to make an appearance in the final championship tournaments of the year.

“Just working with the guys has prepared me and gotten me ready for this season. Summer work makes winter champions and I believe we have all put in that work,” Mares said.

The Johnnies look forward to a full schedule this year, with tournaments out-of-state in Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin.

They will also be participating in dual meets with schools like Concordia and University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, two top tier Division III schools.

“This season will be blast to just be able to compete again and show what SJU wrestling is all about,” said Mares.