Wrestlers prepare for tough week of competition

It’s a rare occurrence at Utah Valley – so rare in fact that it has never happened before. The number one wrestling team in the nation, the Iowa Hawkeyes, will make the trek west to take on the Wolverines in Vernal, Utah on Feb. 6. The Hawkeyes are two-time defending NCAA champions, allowing UVU a tremendous opportunity to make some noise in the world of wrestling.

Not only will the Wolverines have the privilege of taking on one top-ten team in Iowa, but another comes to town on Feb. 5 in Boise State. The eighth ranked Broncos will grapple with the Wolverines right here in Orem, affording UVU with another chance at an upset.

The Wolverines will be led by 125-pounder Ben Kjar who is ranked 13th in the nation in his weight class and bolsters a record of 21-6 on the season. However, contrary to the outsider view, wrestling is very much a team sport and others will be expected to step up in order to ensure the Wolverines’ success.

Chances like this don’t come around too often, taking on two top-ten teams on back-to-back nights, and while UVU will look to knock off these highly touted programs, there is much experience to be gained from competing against the best.

However, moral victories aren’t to be had by coach Greg Williams and the rest of the Wolverines; they will be wrestling to win. UVU has enjoyed a very successful season and will continue to taste that success as they take on these to tough teams.