St Cloud State St. Cloud, Mn
By Tom Nelson - tnelson@stcloudstate.edu
St. Cloud State's Tad Merritt Named NSIC Wrestler of the Week
St. Cloud, Minn. - St. Cloud State University sophomore Tad Merritt (Canby/H.S.) has been selected as the Northern Sun Intercollegiate wrestler of the week for Nov. 16.

Merritt earned the league honor by posting a 3-0 record in action at the Northwestern Duals on Nov. 14, in Evanston,
Ill.   Merritt opened the day with a 10-4 win over NCAA Division I opponent Kyle Bertin of Northwestern.

He continued his success against NCAA Division I competition with a pin at 4:13 against Eastern Michigan's Lester France. To end the day, Merritt charted a technical fall over Ronald Uccardi of North Central College (Ill.) by a 20-5 tally.

Merritt, a returning All-American, is now 3-0 on the new season. He finished in third place at the NCAA Division II
championships at 165-pounds in 2009. Merritt is currently ranked second in the nation in the latest Division II polls at 165-pounds this season.

The Huskies will continue their 2009-10 season on Nov. 21, with a trip to the Cobber Open in Moorhead,Minn.
St. Cloud State Wrestler Also Serves His Country

St. Cloud State to Salute Veterans at Dec. 4 Basketball Games
St. Cloud State University Athletics will salute all members of the United State Armed Forces and veterans during Military Appreciation Night at the Husky men's and women's basketball games against Winona State on Friday, Dec. 4.
As a special recognition on Dec. 4, all curent and retired members of the military and their families will be admitted free to the SCSU basketball games that night. The games begin with the SCSU-Winona State women's basketball game at 6 p.m., with the men's game beginning at 8 p.m.
One of those dedicated members of the military serving the United States is St. Cloud State University senior wrestler Adam Minette, a resident of New Prague and 2004 graduate of New Prague High School.
In addition to his spot on the SCSU wrestling roster, Minette serves with the Army National Guard. A redshirt senior at SCSU, Minette missed the 2007-08 season while serving on a tour of active combat duty in Iraq. He returned to the SCSU roster in 2008-09 and gained a 7-8 record with four pins at 149- and 157-pounds.
"It is a pleasure and an honor having Adam Minette as a member of our wrestling program," SCSU head coach Steve Costanzo said. "He has been dependable, loyal and committed in every aspect to our program. I am very grateful for what he has given to the citizens of the United States."
The SCSU wrestling team will open its 2009-10 season on Nov. 14, with a trip to the Northwestern Duals in Evanston, Ill. SCSU is slated to compete against Division I opponents Northwestern and Eastern Michigan along with a match against Division III rival North Central College (Ill.).
At the upcoming SCSU Military Appreciate Night, all fans are encouraged to bring items for a veterans' food drive on Dec. 4, with all proceeds being donated to veteran families in need.
St. Cloud State Team Black Wins Black/Red Classic

St. Cloud State University wrestling kicked off the 2009-2010 season with the annual Black/Red Classic intra-squad match on Sunday, Nov. 8, in Halenbeck Hall. The Black and Red teams each won five bouts on the afternoon, the difference in the match proved to be a major decision by returning All-American Tad Merritt at 165-pounds that gave Team Black the 16-15 dual match victory.

Head Coach Steve Costanzo said, "It was extremely competitive out here today, we had guys battling at every weight. I am confident that we have quality wrestlers at all ten weights this season, and whoever we put on the mat is going to give us a great effort in 2009-10."
Two former SCSU wrestling greats Nate Toedter (class of ) and Dennis Moske (class of ) served as the honorary coaches for the event.

Moske served as the honorary coach for the Red Team. Moske was a 1972 graduate of Parkers Prairie High School, Moske earned conference championship honors as a high school wrestler by defeating Steve Carr, who went on to win four state titles and lost only five matches in his entire career (one of which was to Moske).

Moske went on to wrestle for two seasons at Fergus Falls Community College, and then redshirted one season at St. Cloud State. In 1975-76 and 1976-77, Moske was a two-year starter for the Huskies. He earned conference championship honors in 1977 at SCSU. Moske is currently self-employed and is the owner of the Moske Tree Service.

The Black teams honorary coach was Nate Toedter. A two-time North Central Conference champion at 190-pounds in 1988 and 1989, Toedter gained NCAA Division II All-America honors three times during his collegiate wrestling career at St. Cloud State.

As a testimony to his prowess on the mat, Toedter was invited to the NCAA Division I championships in 1989 and earned All-America honors with an eighth place finish at the DI tournament that season.

A transfer from Minnesota Duluth, Toedter charted a 30-10 record for the Huskies in 1986-87, and then followed with a 33-4 record in 1987-88 on the way to his first conference with a third place finish at the NCAA Division II championships.

Toedter served as a team captain for the Huskies in 1987-88 and 1988-89, and he also earned the Dean Weisman Award as the team©ˆs Wrestler of the Year in 1987, 1988 and 1989. In 1990, Toedter was a member of the Athletes in Action International Wrestling Team.
A graduate of Perham High School, Toedter was a two-time state place winner in 1983 and 1984. He also earned Academic All-State notice as a prep wrestler in 1983 and 1984. He was inducted into the SCSU Athletic Hall of Fame in 2009.

Listed below are the complete results from the Black/Red Classic on Nov. 8:
Results - Black 16, Red 15
125 -Mark Maestrey - R dec. Trent Herold - B, 9-7
133 - Shane McQuade - R dec. Adam Helgeson - B, 3-2
141 - Gabe Suarez - B dec. Chad Schultz - R, 3-1
149 - Jacob Roberts - B dec. Alex Kontz - R, 6-0
157 - Joe Andersen - B dec. Josh Joriman - R, 10-5
165 - Tad Merritt - B major dec. Kurt Salmen - R, 12-1
184 - Derek Skala - R dec. Mic Berg - B, 8-3
197 - Luke Munkelwitz - B dec. Josh Antonneau - R, 6-1
285 - Jacob Kahnke - R  dec. Chris Brassell - B, 4-1
Exh. 149 - Jacob Horn - R dec. Chad Kubasch - B, 4-3
St. Cloud State Wrestling Preview for 2009-10

Coach Steve Costanzo has helped St. Cloud State University wrestling regain a place among the nation's elite NCAA Division II programs since his arrival on campus in 2006.

Costanzo has helped lift the Huskies to consecutive winning seasons in 2007-08 and 2008-09, and last year SCSU broke the top 10 barrier at the NCAA Division II championships with an eighth place team finish - the Huskies' best finish at the national level since 1986.

In those first three seasons, Costanzo and the Huskies relied on a large contigent of talented but young wrestlers. As the Huskies approach the dawn of the 2009-10 season, Costanzo looks to benefit from the experience gained by his troops over those first three seasons.

"One of our key strengths this season will be our veteran leadership," Costanzo said. "In my first three seasons at SCSU, we didn't have a lot of veteran leadership and our younger athletes didn't have anyone to look up to. Now that this team is starting to get a bit older, we have those junior and seniors who serve as leaders and role models in the wrestling room, in the class and in competition.

"Veteran leadership can take you a long way during the course of a season."
On paper, the Huskies should be a strong contender for continued success in 2009-10. SCSU will return six national qualifiers and three All-Americans from its 2008-09 squad, which posted an 8-5 dual match record, and placed second at the NCAA Division II Super Regional Three in 2009.

125-POUNDS
At 125-pounds, the Huskies will look to fill that position with a trio of true freshman student-athletes which includes Zach Stewart (Green Bay, Wis.Ashwaubenon H.S.), Trent Herold (East Bethel, Minn./St. Francis H.S.) and Mark Maestrey (Toms River, N.J./South H.S.).
"All three of these wrestlers are very capable of competiting for us this season," Costanzo said. "They all have very impressive credentials and I have been very impressed with their work ethic and ability to compete."
133-POUNDS
At 133-pounds, the Huskies will need to find a replacement for departed two-time NCAA qualifier Josh Williams. Names to watch in 2009-10 include redshirt sophomore Adam Helgeson from nearby Sauk Centre H.S. and true freshman Shane McQuade (Appleton, Wis./West H.S.). Helgeson was 6-4 in 2008-09, which included a first place finish at the 2008 Dragon Open.
141-POUNDS
At 141-pounds, two-time NCAA qualifier and team captain Gabe Suarez (Las Vegas, Nev./Cimarron Memorial H.S.) will be back for his junior season at SCSU. Suarez went 27-11 in 2008-09, and also gained first place honors at the NCAA regional. Redshirt freshman Chad Schultz will add solid depth at this position.
"Gabe (Suarez) is a relentless wrestler. He always on the attack and very exciting to watch," Costanzo said. "We feel very good about his presence at 141-pounds, and he has developed into one of this team's leaders."
Senior Jacob Roberts (Jordan, Minn./Scott West H.S.) will be back for the Huskies after qualifying for nationals at 149-pounds in 2009. Roberts went 28-11 last winter, which marked his first full season of competition at SCSU after transferring from Augsburg.
149-POUNDS
The Huskies will be very deep at 149-pounds, as Costanzo sees competition at this position from redshirt freshman Alex Kontz (Canby, Minn.), redshirt sophomore Joe Andersen (Bemidji, Minn.), redshirt junior Chad Kubash (New Germany, Minn./Watertown-Mayer H.S.) and true freshmen Mac Rivard (Cedar, Minn./St. Francis H.S.) and Jacob Horn (St. Michael/St. Michael-Albertville H.S.).
"Jake (Roberts) will certainly be a front runner at 149-pounds, but we do have a lot of talented wrestlers at this spot, who will certainly compete for mat time," Costanzo said.
157-POUNDS
At 157-pounds, junior John Sundgren (Blaine, Minn.) will return from an outstanding 34-8 season that included 14 pins. He is a two-time NCAA qualifier, who earned All-America status in 2008. Sundgren has also been tabbed a a team captain for 2009-10. His excellence on the mat is mirrored in the classroom, as he has gained NWCA and NSIC academic accolades throughout his tenure on campus.
"John (Sundgren) is a leader for us on and off the mat," Costanzo said. "He is a very consistent performer and we expect more success from him this winter."
Other names who will compete at 157-pounds for the Huskies this winter include redshirt freshmen Josh Joriman (Lino Lakes, Minn./Centennial H.S.) and Mike Cullen (Coon Rapids, Minn.) along with redshirt senior Adam Minette (New Prague, Minn.).
165-POUNDS
The Huskies will be in good hands at 165-pounds with the return of redshirt sophomore and team captain Tad Merritt (Canby, Minn.). In 2008-09, Merritt tied a school record with 38 wins and also set a team record with 17 pins. He went on a place third in the nation at the NCAA championships. Kurt Salmen (Dassel, Minn./Dassel-Cokato H.S.) will add depth at 165-pounds for SCSU this winter.
"Tad (Merritt) will be in the heat of it for a possible national championship," Costanzo said. "He is just one of those hard-nosed guys...all business and very consistent on a day-to-day basis. A team leader."
"Tad is exceptional in all three areas of wrestling...he doesn't have just one strength, and that is what makes him unique."
174-POUNDS/184-POUNDS
In 2008-09, Derek Skala (Owatonna H.S.) earned All-America honors at 174-pounds with a seventh place finish. Skala posted a 27-9 record last winter, which included seven pins. A team captain and redshirt junior in 2009-10, Skala will be a force for the Huskies at 174-pounds or 184-pounds this winter.
"Derek (Skala) will be a front runner for us at either 174-pounds or 184-pounds," Costanzo said. "With the departure of two-time All-American Brad Padgett at 184-pounds, we feel that 184-pounds might be a better weight class for Derek to wrestle at in 2009-10. This would allow him to spend more time training and less time worrying about his weight. He is such a strong, physical wrestler, we think he should be able to meet the challenge of moving up to 184-pounds."
Redshirt freshman Shamus O'Grady (Coon Rapids, Minn.) should be a strong candidate for time at 174-pounds if Skala makes the move to 184-pounds. Last winter, O'Grady earned the team's Redshirt Wrestler of the Year award.
"We feel pretty good with Shamus (O'Grady) back in room this winter," Costanzo said. "We feel that he should be ready to take a starting role this winter."
To add depth at 184-pounds, the Huskies have added true freshman Mic Berg (Inver Grove Heights, Minn./Simley H.S.) and sophomore Kyle Schumm (Buffalo, Minn./St. Michael/Albertville H.S.), who is a transfer from St. John's.
197-POUNDS
At 197-pounds, redshirt sophomore Luke Munkelwitz returns from a 29-13 campaign in 2008-09. An NCAA qualifier last winter, Munkelwitz will be challenged in 2009-10 by senior Ted Saatzer (Mound, Minn./Mound-Westonka H.S.)., redshirt junior Erik Rogness (Buffalo, Minn.), redshirt fresman Josh Conrath (Waseca, Minn.) and redshirt freshman Josh Antonneau (Hartland, Wis./Arrowhead H.S.).
HEAVYWEIGHT
In recent years, SCSU has struggled to fill its heavyweight position, but the Huskies hope to have a couple of answers to the problem in 2009-10. Redshirt freshman Jacob Kahnke (Shakopee, Minn.) will join the Huskies this winter after transferring from Division I Old Dominion. He is a two-time state champion from Prior Lake H.S. Freshman Chris Brassell from the Chicago suburb of Park Ridge, Ill. (Maine South H.S.) is another person to watch this winter.
"Although we will be inexperienced at heavyweight, we should be in very good hands with Jacob (Kahnke) and Chris (Brassell)," Costanzo said.
TOUGH SCHEDULE FOR THE HUSKIES
Coach Costanzo has designed a very competitive schedule to test his squad, and prepare them for the 2010 NCAA Division II championships. The Huskies will open with a trip to the Northwestern Duals on Nov. 14, which will feature matches against Division I rivals Northwestern and Eastern Michigan.
SCSU will then make trips to the Cobbert Open and the UW-LaCrosse Duals, before hosting the annual Husky Open in Halenbeck Hall on Dec. 12.
A highlight of the holiday break will be a trip to the elite Midlands Championships in Evanston, Ill. on Dec. 29-30. The Huskies also received an invitation to the prestigious NWCA National Duals, which will be held in Cedar Falls, Iowa on Jan. 9-10.
SCSU will then embark on the dual meet portion of its season with a full slate of matches against Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference rivals along with non-conference showdowns against UW-Eau Claire, defending national champion Nebraska-Omaha and cross-county rival St. John's.
All will be in preparation for the NCAA Division II Super Three Regional at Aberdeen, S.D. on Feb. 28, and the NCAA championships on Mar. 12-13 in Omaha, Neb.
"We have upgraded our schedule for the 2009-10 season," Costanzo said. "We did this with hopes of better preparing us for the regional and nationals at the end of the season.
"We know this will be a very tough schedule for us, but we think this will be the best way to prepare us for a shot at being a national champion," Costanzo said. "This team is a bit older this year, and we are confident they can handle the challenge. We just need to step up and take it to the next level."
Youth Wrestling Clinic a Success at St. Cloud State

St Cloud MN- The 4th Annual Husky Fall Wrestling Clinic was a success this past weekend on the campus of St Cloud State University. Over 50 participants, coaches, and parents were there in attendance during the one day event on Saturday, October 31 in the Halenbeck Hall Field House.

The clinic featured two technique sessions and a motivational session in the sport of wrestling were taught for all clinic participants ranging in age from first grade to 12th grade. The special guest clinician for the day was two-time NCAA champion from the University of Minnesota Cole Konrad. The clinic participants also had an opportunity to watch the SCSU wrestling team practice at the end of the sessions.

"Our Fall Clinic is always a fun event to help our youth advance in the sport of wrestling," said Assistant Coach Chris Heilman. " We had a great group of kids and we appreciate their support."

St Cloud State is gearing up for its annual Black/Red Intrasquad Classic on Sunday, November 8th in Halenbeck Hall. The Huskies are currently rank 8th in the current preseason NCAA Division II poll.   All fans and spectators are welcome to attend the Black/Red Classic, which will start at 2 p.m. in Halenbeck Hall.
St. Cloud State Wrestling Earns Top 10 Ranking for 2009 Recruit Class

St. Cloud, Minn. -- Under the direction of head coach Steve Costanzo, the St. Cloud State Wrestling team has earned a top 10 ranking for its recruiting class of 2009-2010. The rankings, published in the Sept. 15 issue of Wrestling U.S.A. Magazine, lists the Huskies as the 10th best recruiting class among non-Division I programs.

St. Cloud State was listed the fourth best recruiting class for all of NCAA Division II wrestling, behind only Ashland, Central Oklahoma and Nebraska-Omaha. Out of all non-Division I recruiting classes, the Huskies ranked tenth in the top 15, the only team from the NSIC on the list.

Incoming wrestlers of note for SCSU include: Mark Maestrey (125) third place finisher out of New Jersey, Shane McQuade (125) state champion from Wisconsin, Jack Grisell (133) state champion from Minnesota, Zach Stewart (133) fifth place finisher out of Wisconsin, Trent Herold (133) second place finisher from Minnesota, Mac Rivard (141) fourth place finisher from Minnesota, Jacob Horn (157) fourth place finisher from Minnesota, Jacob Kahnke (197) a two time Minnesota State Champion, Mic Berg (197) a former Minnesota State Champion, Brad Wollum (285) a third place finisher from Minnesota, Kyle Schumm (285) a second place finisher from Minnesota and Chris Brassell (285) a third place finsiher from Illinois.

SCSU charted an 8-5 overall record in 2008-09, and the Huskies placed eighth in the nation at the 2009 NCAA Division II championships.  A total of 3 SCSU wrestlers earned All-America status in 2008-09, and the Huskies advanced eighth wrestlers to the 2009 NCAA Division II championships this season.  Costanzo will begin his fourth season at SCSU in 2009-10.

The Huskies begin their 2009-2010 season with the annual Black/Red Classic on November 8 at 2:00 pm.

Contact: Tom Nelson (320-308-2141)
 
St. Cloud State Wrestling Names Captains for 2009-10

Head Coach Steve Costanzo announced today, the naming of four captains for the 2009-10 wrestling season at St. Cloud State University.  Returning captains will be junior Gabe Suarez (Las Vegas, Nev./Cimarron H.S.) and junior John Sundgren (Blaine, Minn./H.S.).  Joining them will be junior Derek Skala (Owatonna, Minn./H.S.) and sophomore Tad Merritt (Canby, Minn./H.S.).

Suarez will be a captain for the 3rd time in his career at SCSU.  Last season he finished with a 27-11 record while qualifying for the NCAA Division II National Tournament for the second year in a row at 141-pounds.  Suarez was crowned champion at the Cobber Open, Menlo Open and the Super Region III Regional Qualifier.  He was also named to the NSIC All-Conference Team. 

"Gabe leads by example.  One of the first things you notice about Gabe is his intensity and work ethic," Costanzo said.

Sundgren is serving as a captain for his second straight season.  Sundgren is a 2-time national qualifier and returning All-American for the Huskies.  Last season he had an impressive 33-9 record with 14 falls at 157-pounds.  Sundgren finished first at the Cobber, Dragon and Menlo Invite last season.  He is also a 2-time Academic All-American. 

"John does great things on and off the mat.  He is a great leader in the classroom, the community and in the practice room," Costanzo said.

Skala will be serving as a captain for the first time in his career at SCSU.  Skala finished last season with a 27-9 record at 174-pounds, and he brought home first place honors at the Bison Open and the Menlo Invite.  Skala was also named a 2009 All-American after finishing 7th at the 2009 NCAA Division II National Tournament. 

"Derek is well respected by his peers, he is a great athlete who is a joy to be around.  Derek will be an outstanding role model for his teammates,"  Costanzo said.

Merritt, the Huskies highest returning All-American will be making his first appearance as a captain for the SCSU Wrestling program.  Merritt finished last year with a school record 38 wins and a school record 17 pins.  Merritt brought home championship honors from the Cobber Open, Husky Open and the Menlo Invite.  He was a 2009 All-American finishing in 3rd place at the NCAA championships at 165-pounds. 

"Tad is a very driven individual.  He lives his life according to a standard of excellence and settles for nothing less.  He will be a great leader for his teammates to follow."

As a team, the Huskies placed eighth at the 2009 NCAA Division II championships and also placed second at the 2009 NCAA Division regional tournament.  Overall, the Huskies posted an 8-5 dual record and a 5-2 record in the always competitive NSIC under the leadership of third-year head coach Steve Costanzo.
 
 
Tom Nelson
Assistant Athletic Media Relations Director
St. Cloud State University
720 4th Ave. South
St. Cloud, MN  56301
Phone: 320-308-2141
FAX: 320-308-2099
E-Mail: tcnelson@stcloudstate.edu

 
University of Nebraska Wrestler to Transfer to St. Cloud State

St. Cloud, Minn. - St. Cloud State University head wrestling coach Steve Costanzo has announced that Brian Litch of Plymouth plans to attend the University and wrestle for the Huskies beginning in the fall of 2009.  Litch is a transfer from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

Litch, a graduate of Wayzata High School, is a two-time MSHSL state qualifier and placed third in his senior year at the 2007 state tournament.  Litch earned All-American honors at the 2007 Junior Nationals with a fourth place finish and was crowned 2007 Northern Plains champion in Greco Roman.  He is currently undecided with his intended major.          

"I am excited to announce Brian (Litch) as a new addition to our program," said Coach Steve Costanzo. "He has a lot of experience from wrestling at the Division I level.  His experience will add depth and excitement to our lower to mid weights."

Litch will be joining Chris Brassell of Park Ridge, Ill., Jacob Kahnke of Prior Lake and Shane McQuade of Appleton, Wis. whom have all signed letters of intent to wrestle for the Huskies. They will join Mic Berg of Simley, Trent Herold of St. Francis and Mark Maestrey of Toms River, N.J. as part of the incoming recruiting class. Berg, Herold and Maestrey signed NLI's in November.

Jacob Horn of St. Michael, Mac Rivard of St. Francis, Kyle Schumm of Buffalo, Zach Stewart of Green Bay, Wisc. and Brad Wollum of Canby will also be joining the Husky wrestling program for the 2009-10 season.

SCSU charted an 8-5 overall record in 2008-09, and the Huskies placed eighth in the nation at the 2009 NCAA Division II championships.  A total of 3 SCSU wrestlers earned All-America status in 2008-09, and the Huskies advanced eighth wrestlers to the 2009 NCAA Division II championships this season.  Costanzo will begin his fourth season at SCSU in 2009-10.

Contact: Tom Nelson (320-308-2141)
 
St. Michael-Albertville Wrestler to Compete at St. Cloud State
 
St. Cloud, Minn. - St. Cloud State University head wrestling coach Steve Costanzo has announced that Kyle Schumm of Buffalo plans to attend the University and wrestle for the Huskies beginning in the fall of 2009.

Schumm, a graduate of St. Michael-Albertville High School, compiled a career mark of 118-28 at the high school level.  He is a three-time MSHSL place winner as he finished 5th in 2006, 2nd in 2007 and 4th in 2008.  Schumm spent this past year at St. John's University where he was plagued by injuries.  He plans on pursuing a major in environmental studies at St. Cloud State.   

"Kyle is another great addition to the Husky wrestling program," said Coach Steve Costanzo. "He has excellent leverage on the mat and is very athletic.  I am very excited to have him in our program"

Schumm will be joining Chris Brassell of Park Ridge, Ill., Jake Grisell of Mahtomedi, Jacob Kahnke of Prior Lake and Shane McQuade of Appleton, Wis. whom have all signed letters of intent to wrestle for the Huskies. They join Mic Berg of Simley, Trent Herold of St. Francis and Mark Maestrey of Toms River, N.J. as part of the incoming recruiting class. Berg, Herold and Maestrey signed NLI's in November.

Jacob Horn of St. Michael, Mac Rivard of St. Francis, Zach Stewart of Green Bay, Wisc. and Brad Wollum of Canby will also be joining the Husky wrestling program for the 2009-10 season.

SCSU charted an 8-5 overall record in 2008-09, and the Huskies placed eighth in the nation at the 2009 NCAA Division II championships.  A total of 3 SCSU wrestlers earned All-America status in 2008-09, and the Huskies advanced eighth wrestlers to the 2009 NCAA Division II championships this season.  Costanzo will begin his fourth season at SCSU in 2009-10.
 
St. Cloud State's Tad Merritt Named to All-Rookie Team

St. Cloud State University freshman Tad Merritt (Canby) has been named to the 2009 Amateur Wrestling News All-Rookie Team. He was named to the the All-Rookie Team as a second team selection at 165-pounds.

The Amateur Wrestling News All-Rookie team recognizes wrestlers at all levels of NCAA competition, as Wisconsin's Andrew Howe was the first team selection at 165-pounds. Nick Amuchastegui of Stanford was selected as third team at 165-pounds followed by Kyle DeBerry on the fourth team, Ryan Smith of Oklahoma on the fifth team and Tyler Johnson of North Dakota State on the sixth team. Merritt was one of only four NCAA Division II athletes named to this year's Amateur Wrestling News All-Rookie Team.

Merritt captured third place honors in the 165-pound flight at the 2009 NCAA Division II championships, which provided him with All-America status this winter. He finished the year with a 37-6 overall record and a team-leading 17 pins in 2009. Merritt was named the 2009 Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference Rookie of the Year, and he placed third at the 2009 NCAA Division II Regional meet at 165-pounds. On Jan. 27, 2009, Merritt was named the NSIC Wrestler of the Week. He claimed three tournament championship throughout the 2008-09 season and also placed in a total of seven tournaments this winter.

As a team, the Huskies placed eighth at the 2009 NCAA Division II championships and also placed second at the 2009 NCAA Division regional tournament. Overall, the Huskies posted an 8-5 dual record and a 5-2 record in the always competitive NSIC under the leadership of third-year head coach Steve Costanzo.
St. Cloud State Wrestling Signs New Athletes for 2009-10

St. Cloud, Minn. - St. Cloud State University head wrestling coach Steve
Costanzo today announced the signing of four student-athletes to Letters of
Intent. In addition, SCSU wrestling received notice that three additional
student-athletes plan to attend SCSU in 2009-10.

Chris Brassell of Park Ridge, Ill., Jake Grisell of Mahtomedi, Jacob Kahnke
of Prior Lake and Shane McQuade of Appleton, Wis. have all signed letters of
intent to wrestle for the Huskies. They join Mic Berg of Simley, Trent
Herold of St. Francis and Mark Maestrey of Toms River, N.J. as part of the
incoming recruiting class for 2009-10. Berg, Herold and Maestrey signed
letters of intent in November, 2008.

In addition, Jacob Horn of St. Michael, Mac Rivard of St. Francis and Brad
Wollum of Canby have all indicated that they plan to join the Husky
wrestling program for the 2009-10 season.

Brassell, a heavyweight out of Maine South High School, compiled a career
record of 122-30. As a senior, he went 44-2 with 35 falls. He was a
three-time All-Conference selection and placed third in the IHSA state
tournament during his senior campaign. Brassell is a past Cadet Greco Roman
All-American placing sixth and recently claimed the Illinois state freestyle
crown. Academically, he is a member of the honor roll the past three years
and plans on pursuing a major in business or physical education at SCSU.

Grisell, a state champion out of Mahtomedi High School this past season, was
104-13 the past three seasons. As a senior, he went 33-4 en-route to his
state title at 119-pounds. He finished his career as a three-time MSHSL
state qualifier. Grisell plans on pursuing a major in business management
at SCSU.

Kahnke, a transfer from Division I Old Dominion University, red-shirted this
past season while wrestling at 197-pounds. He is a graduate out of Prior
Lake High School and did not lose a match after his sophomore season, going
87-0 his junior and senior season. Kahnke is a two-time MSHSL state
champion and three-time state finalist. In addition, he was crowned NHSCA
All-American honors his senior year. Kahnke plans on pursuing a major in
business at SCSU.

McQuade, out of Appleton West High School, compiled a career mark of 158-19.
As a senior, he went 47-1 on his way to earning his first WIAA state
championship at 119-pounds. During his junior campaign, McQuade finished
with a 45-3 mark and 33 falls while earning a fifth place finish at the WIAA
State Championships. In addition to his on the mat accolades, McQuade is
currently in the top fifteen-percent of his graduating class and plans on
pursuing a major in math or science at SCSU.

Horn, is a two-time MSHSL state tournament place finisher from St.
Michael-Albertville High School. He compiled a mark of 67-31 over the last
two seasons. As a senior, he went 33-15 and finished fourth in the MSHSL
state tournament at 145-pounds. An excellent student, Horn plans on
majoring in Electrical Engineering at SCSU.

Rivard, is a two-time MSHSL state qualifier from St. Francis High School.
He had a two-year mark of 73-19 during his junior and senior seasons. As a
senior, he went 42-7 and finished fourth in the MSHSL state tournament at
140-pounds. Rivard plans on majoring in business management at SCSU.

Wollum, is a three-time MSHSL state qualifier and a two-time state place
winner from Canby High School at 285-pounds. As a senior, he went 40-5 and
finished third and during his junior campaign he went 42-8 finishing second
at the MSHSL state tournaments. He is 109-30 over the last three years. An
outstanding student, Wollum plans on studying pre-pharmacy at SCSU.

Since signing with SCSU in November, Berg won the MSHSL state championship
at 189-pounds and was crowned with NHSCA All-American honors last April.
Herold, earned the runner-up spot at the MSHSL state championship at
125-pounds. Maestrey placed third at the NJSIAA state championship at
119-pounds.

"I am extremely excited about this recruiting class," said Coach Steve
Costanzo. "These student-athletes are not only great wrestlers and
competitors, but excellent students in the classroom. With an outstanding
foundation returning for Husky wrestling, the upcoming years should be
exciting times for all Husky wrestling fans."

The Huskies finished the 2008-09 season with a record of 8-5 and finished
eighth place at the NCAA DII National Championships in March. The squad
will return six national qualifiers and three NCAA All-Americans for
2009-10.
Jack Gause Inducted into St. Cloud State Wrestling Hall of Fame

Huskies Announce Award Winners at Team Banquet

St. Cloud, Minn. - The St. Cloud State Wrestling Team held its 2008-09 year-end banquet this past Friday, April 17, handing out post-season awards, inducting Jack Gause into the SCSU wrestling Hall of Fame and celebrating one of the best season in Husky Wrestling history. Jack was the first SCSU wrestling coach and founder of the program back in 1949-50.

Senior Brad Padgett (Buckley, WA) and redshirt freshman Tad Merritt (Canby, MN) earned the team's Dean Weisman Wrestler of the Year honors after earning NCAA DII All-American honors as they finished third in their respective weight classes at the national tournament. Redshirt sophomore Derek Skala (Owatonna, MN) was also honored for his All-American performance as he finished seventh in the nation.

On the academic side of things John Sundgren (Blaine, MN), Matt Jackson (Oakdale, MN), Adam Helgeson (Sauk Centre, MN), Adam Hill (Sauk Rapids, MN), Jacob Horn (Ephrata, WA) and Erik Rogness (Buffalo, MN) were honored with NWCA All-Academic honors.

The Huskies finished the season with a 8-5 overall dual mark to compliment a 8th place finish at the Division II National Tournament. This was the highest place SCSU wrestling has finished since the 1986 campaign when they also finished 8th.

Complete Listing of Husky Wrestling Award Winners
Husky Lettermen
2008-09 Team Members
Captain Award
Brad Padgett, Gabe Suarez & John Sundgren
Scholars of the Year
Fr. - Ryan Dougherty
So. - Adam Helgeson
Jr. - Adam Hill
Sr. - Matt Jackson
NCAA Division II All-Academic
John Sundgren, Matt Jackson, Adam Hill, Adam Helgeson, Jake Horn & Erik Rogness
NSIC Wrestlers of the Week
Derek Skala, John Sundgren & Tad Merritt
NSIC All-Conference
Josh Williams, Gabe Suarez, Jake Roberts, Derek Skala and Brad Padgett
NSIC Rookie of the Year
Tad Merritt
25-Match Winners
Luke Munkelwitz (29), Brad Padgett (25), Jake Roberts (28), Derek Skala (27) & Gabe Suarez (27)
30-Match Winners
John Sundgren (33)
35-Match Winners
Tad Merritt (38)
Most Falls
Tad Merritt (17)
Most Improved Wrestlers
Ted Saatzer, Justin Jones
Tough Man of the Year
Luke Munkelwitz
Iron Man of the Year
Tad Merritt, Luke Munkelwitz
Red-Shirt Wrestler of the Year
Shamus O'Grady
Most Courageous
Adam Hill
NCAA D-II National Qualifiers
Josh Williams, Gabe Suarez, Jake Roberts, John Sundgren, Tad Merritt, Derek Skala, Brad Padgett & Luke Munkelwitz
NCAA D-II All-Americans
Tad Merritt, Derek Skala & Brad Padgett
Dean Weisman Wrestlers of the Year
Tad Merritt & Brad Padgett
Coaching Appreciation Awards
Tom Anderson, Chris Heilman, Jeremy Lang, Matt Lowers & Nick Wilkes
Husky Wrestling Appreciation Awards
Brittany Johnson, Kristine Schiller, Kyrietta Rouser, Russ Jacobson & Grant Nelson
Husky Wrestling Hall of Fame Inductee
Jack Gause
St. Cloud State Wrestling Gains Invite to 2010 NWCA Division II Duals

The St. Cloud State University wrestling team, which placed eighth in the nation at the 2009 NCAA Division II championships, has been invited to participate in the 2010 NWCA Division II Duals on Jan. 9-10, 2010. This invite-only tournament features the top NCAA Division II wrestling programs and it will be hosted by Northern Iowa University in Cedar Falls, Iowa.
Selection to the tournament is based on returning national placewinners from teams who applied for entrance to the 2010 tournament. SCSU will join Nebraska-Omaha, Newberry, Minnesota State Mankato, Nebraska-Kearney, Central Oklahoma, Western State, Upper Iowa, Mercyhurst, UW-Parkside, San Francisco State, Augustana, Central Missouri, Gannon, West Liberty and Fort Hays State at the tournament.

This will mark the second consecutive season that SCSU has been invited to the NWCA Division II Duals. In 2009, the Huskies posted a 1-2 record at the tournament that included a victory over Findlay and losses to Central Oklahoma and Western State.

Under the leadership of third-year head coach Steve Costanzo, the Huskies charted an 8-5 dual match record in 2008-09. SCSU placed second at the NCAA regional tournament this season, and the Huskies gained an eighth place finish at the NCAA Division II championships. SCSU wrestlers earning All-America status this season included senior Brad Padget (184), freshman Tad Merritt (165) and sophomore Derek Skala (174).
St. Cloud State Wrestling Banquet Slated for April 17

St. Cloud, Minn. - The St. Cloud State Wrestling Team will be celebrating their successful 2008-09 season with their year-end banquet, Friday, April 17 at the Kelly Inn / Green Mill from 6-9 p.m.

The banquet will include a look back at the 2008-09 season and will honor the accomplishments of the team and its individual members. Several team awards will be revealed, as well as recognizing the numerous conference and national award winners from throughout the season.

The cost for the banquet is $20 per person, which includes a meal. Anyone interested in attending this celebration should contact head coach Steve Costanzo at 320-308-2996 or via E-mail at sscostanzo@stcloudstate.edu.