Minnesota State University 2008-09 MINNESOTA STATE … · 2017. 6. 19. · 2008-09 Minnesota State...

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Minnesota State University Maverick Wrestling Postseason Media Guide 2009 NCAA Division II March 13-14, 2009 Winter Sports Festival Houston, Texas

Transcript of Minnesota State University 2008-09 MINNESOTA STATE … · 2017. 6. 19. · 2008-09 Minnesota State...

  • www.msumavericks.com 2008-09 Minnesota State Wrestling Postseason Media Guide 1

    2008-09 MINNESOTA STATE UNIVERSITY WRESTLINGMinnesota State UniversityMaverick Wrestling

    Postseason Media Guide2009 NCAA Division II

    March 13-14, 2009Winter Sports Festival

    Houston, Texas

  • 2 2008-09 Minnesota State Wrestling Postseason Media Guide www.msumavericks.com

    2008-09 MINNESOTA STATE UNIVERSITY WRESTLING

    Minnesota State University 2008-09 Wrestling Quick Facts

    Location ............................................................................................... Mankato, Minn.Founded ................................................................................................................. 1868Enrollment .......................................................................................................... 14,028Nickname ...................................................................................................... MavericksColors ......................................................................................................Purple & GoldAffiliation ......................................................................................... NCAA Division IIConference ....................................................Northern Sun Intercollegiate ConferenceFirst Year of Competition ................................................................................1950-51All-Time Record ...............................................................................566-338-18 (.624)National Titles .........................1957-58 (NAIA), 1958-59 (NAIA), 1964-65 (NCAA)President ....................................................................................Dr. Richard DavenportDirector of Athletics ............................................................................. Kevin BuismanFacility (capacity) ......................................................................Bresnan Arena (4,521)

    Head Coach...........................................Jim Makovsky ([email protected]) Alma Mater ............................................................................... Valley City State '89 Office Phone ...................................................................................... (507) 389-6521 Makovsky's Career Record ........................................227-88-5 (.717), 19th season Makovsky's Record @ MSU ......................................202-69-3 (.743), 15th seasonAssistant Coaches ........................................ Jon May, Jason Rhoten, Andy Smalzriedt Office Phone .................................................................................... (507) 389-5720

    2008-09 Overall Record .........................................................................................12-4North Sun Intercollegiate Conference Record/Finish ....................................7-0/1st

    Asst. AD/Communications ......................................................................... Paul AllanAllan's E-Mail............................................................................. [email protected] DAC .......................................................................................... Scott NelsenNelsen's E-Mail ........................................................................ [email protected] Contact....................................................................................... Kyle BradtBradt's E-Mail..........................................................................kyle.bradt@mnsu.eduAthletic Communications Phone ......................................................... 507-389-2625Athletic Comminications Fax ................................................................ 507-389-1923MSU Sports Hotline ............................................................................... 507-380-9785Web Site .................................................................................www.msumavericks.com

    MSU rosters, stats, schedules and results, biographies, photos, releases, etc., are avail-able at www.msumavericks.com

    Minnesota State Athletic Communications Graduate Assistant Dax Larson will be traveling with the team and staying at the Hyatt Regency. Dax can be contacted by email at [email protected] or by cell phone at (612) 718-0729.

    On the Docket: Minnesota State heads to Houston, Tex., for the 2009 NCAA Divi-sion II Championships. The Mavericks will send all ten of their starting wrestlers to Houston. Each wrestler qualified for nationals by placing in the top four at the Super Regional Three. The Super Regional Three took place March 1 and was hosted by Southwest Minnesota State University in Marshall, Minn.

    Regional: The second-ranked Minnesota State wrestling team set out to defend their 2008 championship in the Super Regional Three and did just that, as it claimed the team title with 132.5 points, outdistancing second-place St. Cloud State, who finished with 112 points. All ten Mavericks earned a trip to nationals.

    Individual Results at 2009 NCAA Super Regional Three Qualifier

    125 Pounds:Sixth-ranked senior Andy Forstner (Madelia, Minn.) will be making his first appearance at nationals as he finished in first place. Andy Forstner (MSU) receives byeAndy Forstner (MSU) DEC Al Meger (AUGIE); 10-3Andy Forstner (MSU) DEC Corbin Surat (NSU); 8-2

    133 Pounds: SophomoreTim Haneberg (Tinley Park, Ill.) will be making his first appearance at nationals as he finished in fourth place.Tim Haneberg (MSU) DEC Kelly Janke (MSUM); 7-6Trevor Franklin (UIU) MAJ DEC Tim Haneberg (MSU); 8-0)Michal Barrie (SMSU) DEC Tim Haneberg (MSU); 3-1

    141 Pounds: Seventh-ranked senior John Putman (Oak Lawn, Ill.) will be making his second appearance at nationals as he finished in fourth place.John Putnam (MSU) MAJ DEC Landon Dellasilve (U-MARY); 12-4JR Baker (UIU) FALL John Putman (MSU); 2:55Jay Sherer (AUGIE) DEC John Putman (MSU); 7-6

    149 Pounds: Second-ranked sophomore Tommy Abbott (Willmington, Del.) will be making his second appearance at nationals as he finished in first place.Tommy Abbot (MSU) DEC Derek Bomstad (MSUM); 3-2Tommy Abbot (MSU) DEC David Albrecht (SMSU); 4-2Tommy Abbott (MSU) DEC Jacob Roberts (SCSU); 11-5

    157 Pounds: Sixth-ranked junior Travis Elg (Mountain Lake, Minn.) will be making his third appearance at nationals as he finished in first place.Elg wins by 7-2 decision over Taylor Nagel (UM) Elg wins by pinfall over Tallen Ward (MSUM) in 1:39.Elg wins by 14-7 decision over Travis Eggers (UIU)

    165 Pounds: Seventh-ranked senior Tim Matheson (Circle Pines, Minn.) will be making his third appearance at nationals as he finished in second place.Tim Matheson (MSU) DEC Phillip Downs (NSU); 9-5Tim Matheson (MSU) DEC Tad Merritt (SCSU); 6-2Tyler Tubbs (MSUM) DEC Tim Matheson (MSU); 12-5

    174 Pounds: Junior Ben Becker (Circle Pines, Minn.) will be making his third ap-pearance at nationals as he finished in fourth place.Brian Schultz (AUGIE) DEC Ben Becker (MSU); 2-1 TB3Ben Becker (MSU) MAJ DEC Lance Piatz (U-MARY); 11-0Jarret Hall (MSUM) DEC Ben Becker (MSU); 2-0Ben Becker (MSU) MAJ DEC Donnie Bowden (NSU); 10-0

    184 Pounds: Freshman Aaron Norgren (Good Thunder, Minn.) will be making his first appearance at nationals as he finished in third place.Tony Gehling (UIU) MAJ DEC Aaron Norgren (MSU); 13-5Brad Padgett (SCSU) DEC Aaron Norgren (MSU); 12-5Aaron Norgren (MSU) FALL Chad Gibson (NSU); 6:26Aaron Norgren FALL Tony Gehling (UIU); 5:26

    197 Pounds: Sixth-ranked sophomore Pat Mahan (Owatanna, Minn.) will be making his first appearance at nationals as he finished in first place.Pat Mahan (MSU) FALL Matt Norton (UIU); 2:45Pat Mahan (MSU) FALL Dusty Vliem (U-MARY); 1:19Pat Mahan (MSU) DEC Tyler Copsey (AUGIE); 5-1

    285 Pounds: Second-ranked junior Brady Wilson (Faribault, Minn.) will be making his third appearance at nationals as he finished in first place.Brady Wilson (MSU) FALL Arron Cramer (UIU); defaultBrady Wilson (MSU) DEC Tim Johnson (MSUM); 5-3Brady Wilson (MSU) FALL Lance Peters (AUGIE); 1:03

    125 Pounds: Fourth ranked junior Nick Smith (Yankton, S.D.) will

    Ten Mavericks Head to Houston, Texas in Search ofIndividual and Team Titles

    NCAA Division II Team RankingsReleased 3/3/2009 • Ranked by Division II CoachesRank School (State) Points Last Ranking

    1. Nebraska-Omaha 160 1st2. Minnesota State 150 3rd3. Newberry (S.C.) 146 2nd4. Western State (Colo.) 140 4th5. Nebraska-Kearney 117 5th6. Central Oklahoma 116 7th7. Adams State (Colo.) 115 12th8. Pittsburgh-Johnston (Pa.) 113 6th9. Wisconsin-Parkside 86 8th10. St. Cloud State 82 10th11. Upper Iowa 75 9th12. Central Missouri 57 16th13. Augustana (S.D.) 55 13th14. West Liberty (W.Va.) 47 NR15. Chadron State (Neb.) 39 15thT16. San Francisco State (Calif.) 34 NRT16. Ashland (Ohio) 34 20th18. Fort Haynes State (Kan.) 32 14th19. Findlay (Ohio) 31 18th20. Mercyhurst (Pa.) 24 11thOthers receiving votes: Gannon (Pa.), Kutztown (Pa.), Minnesota State- Moorhead, Shippenberg (Pa.)

  • www.msumavericks.com 2008-09 Minnesota State Wrestling Postseason Media Guide 3

    2008-09 MINNESOTA STATE UNIVERSITY WRESTLING

    Previous NCAA II FinishesYear Conference Nat. Finish # All-Americans1963 NAIA 7th 21964 NAIA 4th 41965 NAIA 1st 71966 NAIA 4th 51967 NSIC 2nd 61968 NSIC 4th 3 1969 NSIC 12th 11970 NCC 5th 21971 NCC 3rd 5 1972 NCC 10th 11973 NCC 7th 41974 NCC 6th 51975 NCC 6th 41976 NCC 4th 41977 NCC 10th 21978 NSIC 13th 21979 NSIC 12th 11980 NSIC 7th 21982 NSIC 25th 01983 NCC 35th 11984 NCC T33rd 01986 NCC 28th 0

    Honor Roll & RecordsNational ChampionsRoy Minter 1958Jack Anderson 1958Jack Thamert 1958Dick Kubes 1958Maynard Nelson 1959Lowell Glynn 1959Al Blanshan 1959Howard Gangstead 1964-65Bob Soulek 1966-67Bob Wendel 1967Larry AMundson 1968Ken Stockdale 1971Gary Christianson 1975Jack Eustice 1976Brent Hagen 1977Scott Madigan 1979Craig Jordan 1980Jim Gale 1993Justin Smith 1994Tony Kenning 1995-96Troy Szydel 1998Matt Petsinger 2001Jason Rhoten 2008Andy Pickar 2008

    Four-Time All-AmericansRoy Minter ’56, ’57, ’58, ’58Al Blanshan ’58, ’59, ’59, ’69Jack Eustice ’74, ’75, ’76, ’77Jim Gale ’91, ’92, ’93, ’94Matt Petsinger ’98, ’99, ’00, ’01Travis Krinkie ’04, ’05,’06, ‘07Jason Rhoten ‘04, ‘05, ‘07, ‘08*Bold Indicates National Champion

    Ross Johnsontwo-time All-

    American

    Three-Time All-AmericansJack Anderson ’57, ’58, ’58Jack Thamert ’58, ’59, ’59Howard Gangstead ’64, ’64, ’65Bob Wendel ’65, ’66, ’67Larry Amundson ’66, ’68, ’68Larry Goodnature ’73, ’74, ’76Kurt Kuehl ’74, ’75, ’76Scott Madigan ’78, ’79, ’80Troy Szydel ’97, ’98, ’99Andy Pickar ‘06, ‘07,‘08Two-Time All-AmericansMaunuel Macias ’52, ’53Al DeLeon ’61, ’62Ken Droegmueller ’63, ’64Mike McNamara ’64, ’65Bob Soulek ’66, ’67Al Ogdie ’66, ’67Brian Hage ’70, ’71Mike Medchill ’71, ’72Dennis Pierro ’71, ’72Brad Thompson ’73, ’74Gary Christianson ’74, ’75Joel Thoreson ’91, ’94Gregg Nelson ’93, ’94Justin Smith ’94, ’95Tony Kenning ’95, ’96Ross Johnson ’96, ’97Shawn Ange ’98, ’99Ryan Rettke ’99, ’00Matt Gadient ’00, ’01Lester Berrios ’01 ’02Tony Fratzke ’02 ’03Josh Janousek ‘04 ‘05Nick Smith ‘06 ‘08Brady Wilson ‘07 ‘08

    One-Time All-AmericansKen Pridhoda (’51) Don Dravis (’58) John Kelly (’58)Jerry Sharp (’58)Dick Kubes (’58)Clyde Lundholm (’58)Maynard Nelson (’59)Lowell Glynn (’59)Jerry Slattery (’59)Dave Frame (’59)Bill Lewis (’59)Dick Zeyen (’63)Al Russ (’64)Mike Pierro (’65)John Alexis (’65)Gary Storm (’65Doug Eberling (’65)Jim Riesselman (’66)Jim Soulek (’67)Tom Sowles (’67)Mike Howe (’67)Scott Evans (’68)Don Ryland (’68)Dale Richter (’70)Steve Johnson (’71)Ken Stockdale (’71)

    Rick Brua (’73)Dave Cummings (’73)Dave Keller (’75)Brent Hagen (’77)Joe Johnson (’78)Craig Jordan (’80)Joel Loose (’81)Joe Juliar (’87)Jason Math (’89)Jerold Stauffacher (’94)Paul Pagel (’94)Brad Henry (’94)Justin Kipp (’96)Marc Schulze (’96)Travis Shives (’99)Hannon Hisek (’01)Cory Beckman (’02)Jake Emerick (’03)Math Bitz (‘05)Mike Engelmann (‘05)Nick Smith (06)Jeff Pfaffinger (06)Brandon Girtz (07)John Putman (08)Travis Elg (08)Tommy Abbott (08)

    Jason RhotenMSU wins leader

    with 137

    Tony Kenning70-7 record, no

    Division II losses

    2008-09 ScheduleDate Opponent Time/Result11/15 Harold Nichols Open No scores11/21 Hawkeye Duals All Day Coe L, 26-10 Iowa Central W, 33-10 Iowa L, 45-312/07 UNI Open No scores12/13 Husky Open No scores12/18 Tournament of Champions No scores01/10 Findlay ! W, 26-15 Central Oklahoma ! W, 27-1401/11 Nebraska-Omaha ! L, 29-9 Nebraska-Kearney ! W, 19-1601/16 MSU-Moorhead * W, 26-1201/17 Mary * W, 35-8 01/23 Augustana * W, 24-901/28 Upper Iowa * W, 29-1201/30 S.W. Minnesota State * W, 42-302/06 Nebraska-Omaha L, 17-1502/07 Northern State * W, 43-302/19 St. Cloud State * W, 24-1502/21 Truman State W, 55-0 03/01 NCAA Northern Regional W, 132.5 points03/13 NCAA Championships All Day 03/14 NCAA Championships All Day

    Home matches are in bold* Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference match! NWCA National Duals

    Year Conference Nat. Finish #All-Americans1987 NCC 27th 11988 NCC 32nd 01989 NCC T25th 11990 NCC T32nd 11991 NCC 20th 21992 NCC 28th 01993 NCC 15th 21994 NCC 2nd 71995 NCC 6th 21996 NCC 8th 41997 NCC 17th 21998 NCC 7th 41999 NCC 6th 52000 NCC 7th 42001 NCC 6th 52002 NCC 15th 32003 NCC 15th 22004 NCC 17th 42005 NCC 3rd 52006 NCC 5th 62007 NCC 4th 4 2008 NCC 2nd 4

  • 4 2008-09 Minnesota State Wrestling Postseason Media Guide www.msumavericks.com

    2008-09 MINNESOTA STATE UNIVERSITY WRESTLINGHead Coach Jim Makovsky

    MSU Wrestling Under MakovskyYear Record National Finish1993-94 12-2 2nd1994-95 9-5 6th 1995-96 13-3 8th1996-97 14-8 16th1997-98 16-3 7th1998-99 10-8 6th1999-00 12-8 7th2000-01 12-6-2 6th2001-02 10-3 15th2002-03 8-4 15th2003-04 8-6 17th2004-05 16-3 3rd2005-06 14-2 5th2006-07 16-3 4th2007-08 20-1-1 2nd2008-09 12-4 .....15 years 227-88-5 (.717)

    All-American Mavericks Under MakovskyWrestler YearJerold Stauffacher 1994Paul Pagel 1994Brad Henry 1994Greg Nelson 1994Joel Thoerson 1994Jim Gale 1994Justin Kipp 1996Marc Shulze 1996Travis Shives 1999Troy Szydel 1997, 1998, 1999Matt Petsinger 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001Hannon Hisek 2001Cory Beckman 2002Jake Emerick 2003Josh Janousek 2004, 2005Travis Krinkie 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007Jason Rhoten 2004, 2005, 2007Justin Smith 1994, 1995Tony Kenning 1995, 1996Ross Johnson 1996, 1997Shawn Ange 1998, 1999Ryan Rettke 1999, 2000Matt Gadient 2000, 2001Lester Berrios 2001, 2002Tony Fratzke 2002, 2003Math Bitz 2005Mike Engelmann 2005Nick Smith 2006Jeff Pfaffinger 2006Andy Pickar 2006, 2007, 2008Zach Stevens 2006John Koons 2006Brandon Girtz 2007Brady Wilson 2007, 2008John Putman 2008Travis Elg 2008Tommy Abbott 2008Names in bold are national chamions

    Now entering his 16th season at the helm of the Minnesota State wrestling team, Jim Makovsky is considered one of the premiere coaches in any level of collegiate wrestling as he has developed the Maverick wrestling program into one of the preeminent wrestling programs in the nation. Makovsky reached his 200th career win last season as he currently sits at a 227-88-5 (.717) overall record. This year, he will look to secure his 200th collegiate victory as the Mavericks’ head coach, as he currently sits at a record of 202-69-3 (.743). He reached the 100-win plateau during the 1998-99 season with a 39-10 victory over South-west Minnesota State University. Fifteen of his losses have come against some of the top NCAA I wrestling programs in the Country (Minnesota, Iowa, Iowa State, Wisconsin, Northern Iowa). Since taking over the MSU wrestling program in 1993-94, Mak-ovsky’s teams have never finished lower than 17th at the NCAA tournament. The personable Makovsky led the Mavericks to two second-place finish-es (1993-94, 2007-08), a third-place finish in 2004-05, a fourth-place finish in 2006-07 and a trio of sixth-place finishes (1994-95, 1998-99 and 2000-01) with 10 top-nine finishes at the national

    tournament. Last season Makovsky led the Mavericks to a team dual record of 20-1-1 with their only loss coming to Nebraska- Omaha who won the conference, with the 20 wins establishing a MSU single-sean record. The squad concluded the year second in the North Central Conference, first at the NCAA regional tournament, first at the National Duals tournament and second at the NCAA national tournament. Under his tutelage, Makovsky has coached nine national champions in his career and 69 All-Americans, including two-time heavyweight national champion Troy Kenning, three-time All-American and national champ Troy Szydel and four-time All-American and national champion Matt Petsinger and three- time All- American and national champ Andy Pickar and four- time All- American and national champ Jason Rhoten and has had 69 NWCA national All-Academic selections. In addition to his coaching responsibilities, Makovsky is an active member of the National Wrestling Coaches Association where he recently served as president and is an assistant professor in the MSU Human Performance Department. Makovsky, a Wahpeton, N.D., native is a 1989 graduate of Valley City State University where he served as head wrestling coach for four years before coming to MSU. Makovsky, who was a four-year wrestler and three-year football letterwinner at VCSU, led his alma mater to a 25-19-2 dual meet record in his tenure and coached two national cham-pions and five national All-Academic selections. Makovsky was instrumental in MSU securing and hosting the 2004 NCAA Division II Wrestling National Championships and planning and design-ing the 4,000 square-foot Rummy Macias wrestling room.

    Makovsky and his wife, Dawn, make their home in Mankato and have two sons, Nicholas and Lucas, and a daughter, Mia.

  • www.msumavericks.com 2008-09 Minnesota State Wrestling Postseason Media Guide 5

    2008-09 MINNESOTA STATE UNIVERSITY WRESTLING

    #6 Andy Forstner Sophomore

    Medelia, Minn.

    OSBORN SEASON-BY-SEASON

    125

    MSU: Enters nationals the seventh-ranked 125-pounder in the nation, holds a 27-10 overall record this season, finished first in the region. Career record: 37-14. 2007-08: Forstner’s overall record was 9-4… He was also 2-0 in matches decided by techfalls. 2006-07: Redshirted. High School: Compiled a 171-29 mark while competing for Madelia, Minn...Placed first, second and fourth at the Minnesota State Tournament…High school coach was Wayne Kronemann. Personal: Birthday: June 19, 1988...Son of Vin and Kris Forstner...Exercise science major…Hobbies include hunting, fishing, biking, and hiking…Favorite food is steak…Favorite sports team is the Min-nesota Twins…Favorite TV show is Always Sunny in Philidelphia…Favorite band is George Strait.

    The Wrestlers

    Andy Forstner (Madelia, Minn.), a Minnesota State sophomore, will be competing at the NCAA Division II National Championships on March 13th, 2009 in Houston, Texas. This is Forstner’s first time qualifying for nationals. Forstner placed 1st at the regional tournament defeating Corbin Surat of Northern State in the championship, 8-2. The hardworking Forstner has wrestled for 15 years; he started when he was in the first grade. His favorite thing about wrestling is that it is both a team and individual sport. The 125-pound Forstner compiled a record of 25 – 10 during the season. He had seven pins and four major decisions on the season. As a Maverick, Forstner said the highlight of his season has been having fun, he stated, “This year has been the most fun since I started wrestling. I have great teammates and coaches.” A homegrown talent, Forstner has won his last 13 matches and looks to continue this run at the national tournament. Forstner will help the Maver-icks toward their ultimate goal of a team championship. When asked what he thought about making the national tournament, Forstner responded, “At the beginning of the season I was not even sure if I was going to be on varsity or not, so going from that to qualifying for the national tournament is really cool.” Forstner is excited about the competition at nationals, as he has wrestled a few of his competitors, but has never seen most of his potential opponents wrestle. MSU Wrestling Coach Jim Makovsky has nothing but good words to describe Forstner, he stated, “He is a small-town, hardworking kid, I am as proud of his accomplishments as anyone on the team, because the way he approaches the craft.” Coach went on to say, “He had a shoulder injury and he never heard him complain once. Forstner is steady, never misses anything and does ev-erything with a purpose.” Forstner continues to improve as he stated, “I knew if I believed in myself I would make it to nationals at some point.” When asked what is a key motivator for him in wrestling, Forstner re-sponded saying, “When I am out on the mat it is all up to me, my teammates and coaches cannot help me out much.” In the 125-pound weight class, past Minnesota State wrestlers have a good success at the national tournament; Forstner looks to continue the tradi-tion. Already making an immediate impact as only sophomore, Forstner has a very bright future for the Mavericks. A key point in his season was when he beat Kyle Pedretti of Upper Iowa in a decision, 5-3. At this point, Forstner had broke out and found a new level of confidence. Last season as a freshman Forstner had a record of nine wins and four losses for the Mavericks. Now, Forstner holds a career record of 34-14. In Forstner’s high school wrestling career he compiled a record of 171-29, under the coaching of Wayne Kronemann. While at Madelia High School, he qualified for state four times and placed first, second, and fourth at the Minnesota State Tournament. Forstner is majoring in Exercise Science and would like to work with high school athletics after college. His parents, Vin and Kris Forstner have been a big influence on him throughout his wrestling career and in his life. He credits his parents to being his biggest inspiration.

    By: Blane Sharkey, Athletic Communications Intern

    FORSTNER FEATURE STORY

  • 6 2008-09 Minnesota State Wrestling Postseason Media Guide www.msumavericks.com

    2008-09 MINNESOTA STATE UNIVERSITY WRESTLINGThe Wrestlers

    Tim HanebergSophomore

    Tinley Park, Ill.

    The Wrestlers

    133

    MSU: Enters nationals with a 14-17 overall record this season at 133, finished fourth in the region. Career record: 33-28. 2007-08: Haneberg end his freshman campaign with an overall record of 9-11... Went 4-0 in matches de-cided by pinfall. High School: Compiled a 107-45 mark while competing for Marist High School in Chicago, Ill…Cadet National All-American…High school coach was Mark Gervais. Personal: Birthday: April 23, 1987...Son of John and Gail…Physical Education major…Favorite food is spaghetti…Favorite movie is The Life Aquatic …Favorite pro sports team is the Chicago Cubs…Favorite TV show is Entourage and The Office.

    Minnesota State junior wrestler Tim Haneberg (Tin-ley Park,Ill.) will be competing at nationals for the first time in his career. The Division II national champion-ships are going to be held in Houston, Tex., March 13-14. Haneberg transferred to Minnesota State two years ago from Millikin University in Illinois. Haneberg was unable to continue his career at Millikin due to the fact that the school was discontinuing its intercollegiate wres-tling program. In his first year at Minnesota State, Haneberg went 9-11 in 133 pounds. He was 4-0 in matches that were decided by pinfall. This year he finished the regular season with a 15-15 record at 133 pounds and 141 pounds. He wrestled the first eight matches at 141 pounds while going 4-4 be-fore dropping down to 133 pounds for the remainder of the season. Haneberg’s biggest win came in the regional match that allowed him to go to nationals this year. “Tim has worked hard during his two years at MSU. His desire and work ethic is what separates him from the other wrestlers. He was the guy that wanted it the most and survived,” said coach Jim Makovsky when talking about the starting spot at 133 pounds. Haneberg has always been a great team player. Doing what the team needs best. “I really like the team unity that wrestling offers es-pecially at MSU. We have a really close team and it helps us be so successful,” Haneberg said. Haneberg also illustrated his team commitment when he said, “My favorite memory as a wrestler at MSU was being apart of the teams that won National Duals and then took third.” Haneberg compiled a 107-45 mark while competing for Marist High School in Chicago, Ill where he was a Cadet National All-American. He was coached by Mark Gervais. Haneberg is a physical education major at Minnesota State. After graduating with his major, Tim will be con-tinuing school to go to graduate school to pursue his mas-ters.

    By: Tony Thomason, Athletic Communications Intern

    HANEBERG FEATURE STORY

  • www.msumavericks.com 2008-09 Minnesota State Wrestling Postseason Media Guide 7

    2008-09 MINNESOTA STATE UNIVERSITY WRESTLING

    #7 John PutmanSenior

    Oak Lawn, Ill.

    141

    MSU: Enters nationals the seventh-ranked 141-pounder in the nation, holds a 19-7 overall record this season, finished fourth in the region, was NSIC Wrestler of the Week Feb. 9, and is a one-time All-American. Career record: 53-28. 2007-08: Putman finished his junior year as an All-American while compiling a 21-13 record over-all… He also was a 6-0 in techfalls… Putman was voted “Most Improved” wrestler and was named a 2008 NWCA All-Academic wrestler… He placed sixth at the NCAA Division II national championships last year…Captured 2007-08 regional title. 2006-07: Was 13-7 on the year with all seven loses coming by decision…Was 2-0 in matches decided by pinfall. 2005-06: Went 0-1 on the season. High School: Compiled a 110-35 mark while competing for Mar-ish High School (Chicago, Ill.)…High school coach was Mark Gervais. Personal: Birthday: February 5, 1987...Son of Owen and Margaret...Majoring in aviation…Favorite food is pizza…Favorite movie is Snatch…Favorite pro sports team is the Chicago White Sox.

    The WrestlersThe Wrestlers

    Minnesota State senior wrestler and aviation major John Putman (Oak Lawn, Ill.) is heading to nationals for his second consecutive year, this year in Houston Texas. He was named All-American in 2008 and was a 2008 NWCA All-Academic Wres-tler. Putman placed sixth at the 2008 NCAA Division II National Championships in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. “He really came out last year got his weight under control and gained some confidence and really dominated the region,” said head coach Jim Makovsky. “He has bumped up his weight to 141 pounds during this season and has had his up’s and down’s but he’s one of the guys who’s not trying to compete for his spot. He didn’t have a great weekend at regionals but he understands that getting there is the main thing.” Putman has put in a great deal of hard work and sacrifice for his many accomplishments throughout his career. Overall, he has a record of 39-18 and for his 2008-2009 season went 18-5 with a division record of 13-3. He was 17-6 in takedowns this season and states his career highlight was being named All-American in 2008. His biggest, most exciting win of the 2008-2009 season was on the first day of the NWCA National Duals in Cedar Falls, Iowa. “It was my first day as an official 141 pounder. I came from behind to beat the #3 ranked wrestler in overtime,” Putman said. When asked what his most memorable part of this season has been thus far Putman said, “Watching a lot of the younger guys break out of their shells at Regionals last weekend. We had all ten qualify and the younger guys like Forstner, Norgren, and Mahan really stepped it up.” Putman’s favorite thing about wrestling is, “The feeling you get after a long, hard practice/workout. Knowing that what I just put my body through, no matter how hard or painful it was, has made me stronger both physically and mentally, and prepared me to take on whatever comes my way.” Putman has set his goals high for his final run as a Maverick wrestler and an MSU student-athlete, “With regards to wrestling, plain and simple, I want to be a national champ. Academically, I want to learn as much as I can, take in as much information as I can, and be as prepared as possible to enter the workforce. I chose MSU because it seemed to be a perfect fit. I was looking for a school that would make me a better wrestler as well as help me reach my goals of becoming a professional pilot. MSU has both a great wrestling program and a great aviation program.” In Putman’s High School years he compiled a record of 110-35 under the coaching of Mark Gervais at Marish High School in Chicago, Ill. Putman’s wrestling career started when he was in 8th grade. He would have started earlier but his parents hesitated, until his older brother joined, he then himself started his career as a wrestler. After Putman graduates with his Aviation degree he will be reaching all new heights throughout his life.

    By: Anna Schultz, Athletic Communications Intern

    PUTMAN FEATURE STORY

  • 8 2008-09 Minnesota State Wrestling Postseason Media Guide www.msumavericks.com

    2008-09 MINNESOTA STATE UNIVERSITY WRESTLING

    149#2 Tommy Abbott

    Sophomore Willmington, Del.

    The Wrestlers

    MSU: Enters nationals the second-ranked 149-pounder in the nation, holds a 26-6 overall record this season, finished first in the region, and is a one-time All-American. Career record: 51-11. 2007-08: Abbott compiled a 25-5 record overall and went 15-1 in duals. Abbott ended the year finishing fifth-place in the nation and was an All-American as a true freshman. Ab-bott was voted “Top Newcomer” by the team. High School: Compiled a 152-21 mark while competing for St. Mark’s in Wilmington, Del…A two-time Delaware State Champion…Ranked as 17th-best recruit nationally by RevWrestling.com and ranked 25th best recruit by intermatwrestle.com…2006 Asics Junior Nationals All-American…High school coach was Jay Bastienelli. Personal: Birthday: Nov. 29,1988...Son of Tom and Anne…Majoring in Elementary Education…Favorite food is fries…favorite movie is Basketball… Favorite pro sports team is the San Francisco 49ers…Favorite TV show is Family Guy…Favorite band is Lil Wayne.

    Minnesota State wrestler, Tommy Abbott (Wilming-ton, Del.), is returning to nationals making this his second appearance, with the first being in 2008. Abbott finished his 2008 season fifth at nationals and becoming an All-American as a true freshman. Abbott, who is a sopho-more is wrestling at 149 pounds and boasted a 14-2 divi-sional record, making his season record 24-4. Abbott had hopes of grappling on a full scholarship at Delaware State which is a Division I school, who competes in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference. Plans changed as Delaware State’s head coach got fired and Abbott lost his scholar-ship obligations which brought him to Minnesota State. With one year under his belt and another solid season in progress Abbott has been great addition to the Maver-ick wrestling team. When Head Coach Jim Makovsky was asked what he thought of Abbott he only had good things to say. Makovsky said, “Tommy is the real deal, he is mentally tough and has a great winning mind set. He is very gifted and a very tough guy to wrestle.” Prior to attending Minnesota State, Abbott attended high school at St. Mark’s in Wilmington, Del. There he compiled a 152-21 career high school record and was a two-time Delaware State Champion. “He doesn’t look strong, but he is strong,” Makovsky said. “He is somewhat of an unorthodox wrestler who I wouldn’t know how to prepare myself for. He’s got him-self in a good position.” Abbott won regions and has a full head of steam com-ing into nationals March 13-14. By: Andrew Heydt, Athletic Communications Intern

    ABBOTT FEATURE STORY

  • www.msumavericks.com 2008-09 Minnesota State Wrestling Postseason Media Guide 9

    2008-09 MINNESOTA STATE UNIVERSITY WRESTLING

    The Wrestlers

    157#5 Travis Elg

    JuniorMountain Lake, Minn.

    MSU: Enters nationals the fifth-ranked 157-pounder in the nation, holds a 19-4 overall record this season, finished first in the region, was a three-time NSIC Wrestler of the Week, and is a one-time All-American. Career record: 67-20. 2007-08: Finished his sophomore campaign with a 23-7 record…Was a first time All-American…Captured 2007-08 regional title and finished sixth-place in the NCAA Division II national cham-pionships. 2006-07: Was 25-9 in his freshman season and was a qualifier for the NCAA II Championships where he went 1-2…went 12-1 when matches where decided by pinfall. High School: Compiled a 193-11 mark while competing for Mountain Lake, Minn...Three-time Minnesota high school state champion while also placing third and fourth…High school coach was his dad, Dave Elg. Personal: Birthday: February 10, 1988...Son of Dave and Paula...Business major…Hobbies include hunting and fishing…Favorite food is tator-tot hot-dish…Favorite movie is Grumpy Old Men…Favorite pro sports team is the Minnesota Twins…Favorite TV show is Sports Center…Favorite bands include Gary Allen.

    It has been another very impressive season for Minnesota State ju-nior, Travis Elg (Mountain Lake, Minn.). Elg this season has compiled a 19-4 overall record and 7-0 in conference duals. Elg will be compet-ing in his third straight NCAA II National Championships, this year in Houston, Texas, March 13-14. Elg came MSU after a great high school career at Mountain Lake-Butterfield-Odin. He won three state championships and had an out-standing record of 193-11. “I chose MSU because of the great location. It is only 45 minutes away from home,” Elg said. “MSU has a great team, amazing facilities and I knew a large number of the upper classmen before I even came here.” During his freshman year, Elg tallied a 25-9 overall record and was a qualifier in the NCAA Division II National Championships where he had a record of 1-2. During his sophomore year, Elg had a record of 23-7. He captured the regional title and finished sixth at the NCAA Divi-sion II National Championships. He also was named All-American, the first of his career. Elg entered his junior year ranked #3 in the nation at 141-pounds. He went 9-3 in his first 12 matches at 141-pounds. A little under halfway through the season Elg was moved from 141-pounds to 157-pounds. “His weight management was starting to get to him, so we talked about Travis being a 157-pounder,” said head coach Jim Makovsky. “It sounds crazy because he is not a tall guy or anything, but it turned out pretty good. He’s beat some good people and he’s loving wrestling, it’s a big wind on our back.” “The switch was great.” Elg said. “It took a little time to adjust to the weight changes, but I think it has made me a much better wrestler, because I can focus on wrestling all the time and not just about making weight.” Elg’s conference success this year has already earned him three Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference Wrestler of the Week awards. He was the first Maverick to earn this award. His first award was after his success at the St. Cloud State Husky Open, where he had four pin-falls and a victory by major decision to win the championship at 141 pounds Tony Valek of Augustana was the only opponent Elg did not pin, but he won by major decision 16-4 in the semifinals. He ended up winning the tournament by pinning teammate John Putman in the championship match. His second award came after he won matches against #10 St. Cloud State and Truman State. His first match was against the seventh ranked John Sundgren in which he won by pin-fall 5:30 into the match. Later in the week, he defeated Chadd Griesmer by pin-fall at 2:28 into the match. The Mavericks concluded their regular season that week winning the NSIC championship by defeating #10 St. Cloud State. His third NSIC Wrestler of the Week award came in the regional competition. He defeated University of Mary’s Taylor Nagel and MSU-Moorhead’s Tallen Ward to get to the championship round where he beat Upper Iowa’s Travis Eggers by decision 14-7. He was named the tournament’s Most Outstanding Wrestler. “The award really kind of caught me for a surprise because I just won the honor a week ago as well, but it’s still something nice to get,” Elg said. It is just an award that comes secondary when you’re wrestling good.” “Travis loves wrestling, he is explosive, dangerous, and very in-tense when he is out there,” Makovsky said. “I expect the Mavericks to peak for the first time this year, some great things are going to happen and we will surprise a lot of people, except ourselves,” Elg said. “We just have to remember it's only one match after another, and that all the matches we have wrestled all year are for this one moment.”

    By: Aaron Schulz, Athletic Communications Intern

    ELG FEATURE STORY

  • 10 2008-09 Minnesota State Wrestling Postseason Media Guide www.msumavericks.com

    2008-09 MINNESOTA STATE UNIVERSITY WRESTLING

    165#7 Tim Matheson

    SeniorCircle Pines, Minn.

    MSU: Enters nationals the seventh-ranked 165-pounder in the nation, holds a 20-12 overall record this season, finished second in the region. Career record: 106-19. 2007-08: As a junior Matheson made second NCAA tourney appear-ance and finished the year with a 21-10 overall record...Went 7-2 in matches that were decided by pinfall… He accumulated three tech-fall wins. A one-time NCC Wrestler of the Week winner. 2006-07: Was 25-19 on the year and made his first appearance at nationals…Went 6-1 when matches were decided by pinfall…Was 13-5 in dual action. 2005-06: Went 2-5 on the season with one tech-fall win. High School: Compiled a 188-52 mark while compet-ing for Centennial High School (Blaine, Minn.) and was a Minnesota State Champion… High school coach was John Berglund. Personal: Birthday: March 25, 1987...Son of Greg and Pam...Law enforcement major...Hobbies include football…Favorite food is tacos…Favorite sports team is the Twins.

    Determined for both an All-American as well as both team and individual national championship titles, senior Tim Matheson will have his last shot at the Division II National Championships in Houston March 13-14. This will be Matheson’s third appear-ance at nationals. He went into this season ranked No. 7 and was a one-time North Central Conference Wrestler of the Week win-ner. Weighing in at 165, he went 20-12 in the 2008-09 season and enters nationals with a career record of 66-44. In the 2009 NCAA Super Regional Three Wrestling cham-pionships, Matheson defeated Phillip Downs of Northern State University by decision, 9-5 in the first round. In the semi-final round, Matheson defeated St. Cloud State University’s Tad Merrit by decision, 6-2. Matheson fell to MSU-Moorhead’s Tyler Tubbs in the finals to earn second-place and his third trip to nationals. MSU’s wrestling team is currently ranked #2 in Division II and Matheson is individually ranked at #7. The Mavericks lost by half-of-a-point at nationals last year, driving the team even more this year for a championship title. Matheson said MSU was favored to win the title last year, but since the competition is close, he knows both individual and team championship titles are up for grabs. “This is definitely driving us to win this year,” Matheson said. “Some of the new kids on the team don’t know the feeling of losing by a half-of-a-point. But for us seniors, it’s in the back of our heads.” Jim Makovsky, head wrestling coach for MSU, said Matheson, as a three-time qualifier, is someone who has been close to winning. “He’s a really dangerous wrestler,” Makovsky said. “I know he’s learned from his experience. Going to a national tournament and coming in as close as he did hurts.” Matheson wrestled his first three years at MSU at 174 but moved to the 165 weight class this season. He said he decided to try something different this year for a possible better chance. “This was his first year at 165, so we weren’t sure how he was going to handle it,” Makovsky said. “But his mind set is right. He’s got a good belief system and is going to be ready to go.” Matheson said he has a strong chance of winning, both indi-vidually and as a team. He said his prior nationals experience and “knowing what it’s all about,” is something that is going to put him ahead of others in this competition. Matheson’s main goal in Houston, besides winning, is doing the best he can. He said that winning individually is important to him because it puts his team in a better place for a win. However, a personal title is his top priority. “No holding back,” he said. “It’s my final year.” Matheson is a law enforcement major. After his final year of wrestling, he has one year of school left to complete. Before wrestling for MSU, he competed at Centennial High School in Blaine, Minn. for high school coach John Berglund. He had a high school record of 188-52 and was a Minnesota State High School Champion.

    By: Erin Rohrer, Athletic Communications Intern

    MATHESON FEATURE STORY

  • www.msumavericks.com 2008-09 Minnesota State Wrestling Postseason Media Guide 11

    2008-09 MINNESOTA STATE UNIVERSITY WRESTLING

    174 Ben Becker

    JuniorFort Dodge, Iowa

    MSU: Enters nationals holding a 12-11 overall record this season at 174, finished fourth in the region. Career re-cord: 31-23. 2007-08: Becker complied an overall record of 19-12 and 6-0 in matches decided by major decision...Becker was also 11-6 in dual matches...Becker defeated No. 8 Lucas Haag (UWP) 8-1 on the 28th of January. 2006-07: Redshirted. High School: Compiled a 134-25 mark while competing for Saint Edmond High School...Placed first and sixth in the Iowa state tournament…High school coach was Jim Allison. Personal: Birthday: September 15, 1987...Son of Bruce and Debra...Majoring in biology...Hobbies include hunting. Favorite food is Cheeseburg-ers… Favorite pro sports team is the Kansas City Chiefs and Chicago Cubs…Favorite TV show is anything on the Discovery Channel…Favorite singer is George Strait.

    Round ‘em up. Ten Minnesota State wrestlers are headed to Houston to battle it out for the NCAA Division II National Cham-pionship, March 13-14. As the third-ranked team, Minnesota State defended their 2008 NCAA Regional Wrestling championship this year by scor-ing 132.5 points while second place St. Cloud State scored 112 points. In his junior year at MSU, Ben Becker (Fort Dodge, Iowa) entered the season with hopes of improving from his sophomore year, where he missed out on qualifying for nationals. “My first and foremost goal was to make it to regionals," Becker said. His goal was met and he earned his way to Texas for the na-tionals. “I’m excited. Pumped. Ecstatic. I can’t wait. This was a huge goal of mine to qualify and now that I qualified, I have to reassess what my goals are,” Becker said. Head coach Jim Makovsky said, “He is a guy that we think is talented and motivated.” Wrestling in the 174-pound bracket, Becker lost his first match at regionals to Augustana College’s Brian Schultz by deci-sion, 2-1. From there, Becker had to work his way up from the consolation bracket. He won his first match in the consolation bracket against MSU-Moorhead’s Jarrett Hall and then went on to defeat Donnie Bowden of Northern State University in the true fourth-place match. “He didn’t wrestle very well his first match and we had a nice chat and we started joking around with him and he loosened up and he found a way to break through the glass ceiling, which I think is mental,” Makovsky said. “He beat the guy [Bowden] to qualify for nationals who beat him just a few weeks ago.” “I know I was capable of wrestling better at regionals,” Beck-er said. “I realized this is it, I need to kick it into gear, it’s now or never, so finally I got it going.” MSU is sending all 10 of its wrestlers to nationals. “This is huge for the team. That’s huge right there and everyone is really pumped,” Becker said. “Last year we missed out and we don’t want that to happen again. I think were on the right track.” Becker said he started wrestling when he was in kindergar-ten. I used to wrestle my dad in the living room and so my dad decided to sign me up for wrestling and here I am, he said. Becker ends the regular season with a record of 9-9. “I have to give credit and thanks to my parents, Bruce and Debra Becker,” he said. “They were always there pushing me and supporting me in everything I do. Also, my high school coach, Jim Allison and everyone along the way that has helped me get to where I am now.” Becker’s plan for after college is to go to graduate school somewhere and continue his education in human biology.

    By: Danielle Budahn, Athletic Communications Intern

    BECKER FEATURE STORY

  • 12 2008-09 Minnesota State Wrestling Postseason Media Guide www.msumavericks.com

    2008-09 MINNESOTA STATE UNIVERSITY WRESTLING

    184Aaron Norgren

    FreshmanGood Thunder, Minn.

    MSU: Enters nationals holding a 12-9 overall record this season, finished third in the region. Career record:12-9 . High School: Wrestled for Maple River High School under coach Jim Soma...Overall record in high school was 177-30...Was a four time state qualifier...Placed #2 his junior and senior years...Norgren also placed #4 at senior nationals. Personal: Son of Mary & Joe Nor-gren...Favorite movie is 300...Hobbies include hunting and fishing...Favorite band is Linkin Park...Major is Law Enforcement...Favorite food is pizza.

    Minnesota State University wrestler, Aaron Norgren will be competing at nationals for the first time on March 13-14 at the Winter Sports Festival in Houston Texas. Norgren a na-tive of Good Thunder, Minnesota, who wrestles at 184 pounds, compiled a 12-9 during his freshman season. As a freshman, Norgren progress increased with time, “He learns quickly and is not a freshman on the mat anymore,” said assistant coach Jon May. Norgren earned a starting spot right before Christmas break due to his hard work and commitment. This is Norgren’s first time at nationals and making it as a freshman is extraordinary accomplishment. “He is mentally energized like a fourth grader out there on the mat wrestling,” said head coach Jim Makovsky. Norgren has been wrestling since he was in third grade. His favorite thing about wrestling is the hard work and his favorite move on the mat is, “Snap Down, Go Behind”. Makovsky said, “He is a true freshman, blank sheet of paper and fun to coach.” Norgren’s favorite sparring partner during practice is teammate Tom Block, a senior on the team. The most memorable part of the season for Norgren was going down to Reno, Nevada for the Reno Tournament of Champions where Norgren faced off against D-I opponent, Andrew Ro-zario of Cal State Fullerton and won, but did not place in the tournament. “It was a lot of fun and a great experience at Reno,” Nor-gren said. He hasn’t had a career highlight yet but hopes to make some during nationals. At regionals, Norgren had a great performance going 3-1 and placing third. “He was a big cat-alyst this past weekend when he was wrestling for the third or fourth-place match. We hadn’t wrestled at all with a lot of spark, he goes out there match in hand, coach May got on him, “keep scoring points keep scoring points,” he lit it up and pined the guy,” Makovsky said. Norgren is 12-9 overall, with 3-0 in pinfalls. He went 7-4 in the conference and had three losses by only one point. With all of that said it holds a bright future for Minnesota State Wrestling. Norgren wrestled for Maple River High School where he dominated, posting a 177-30 record. He was a four-time state qualifier and placed #2 his junior and senior years. Norgren also placed #4 at senior nationals. When asked Norgren why he chose MSU he said, “It had the major I wanted and I like the way the team was run.” What Norgren wants to accomplish while he is at MSU, “Become a law enforcement major and a national camp”.

    By: Cole deCathelineau, Athletic Communications Intern

    NORGREN FEATURE STORY

  • www.msumavericks.com 2008-09 Minnesota State Wrestling Postseason Media Guide 13

    2008-09 MINNESOTA STATE UNIVERSITY WRESTLING

    197 #6 Pat Mahan

    SophomoreOwatanna, Minn.

    MSU: Enters nationals the sixth-ranked 197-pounder in the nation, holds a 21-9 overall record this season, finished first in the region. Career record: 21-9. 2007-08: Wrestled for the University of Northern Iowa. High school: Fin-ished first, third, and fourth place in the Minnesota State tournament…Fourth-place at senior nationals in 2007…Placed first and third at junior nationals Greco and placed second in freestyle in 2007. Personal: Son of Brian Mahan and Bridget Lawler…Favorite food is seafood…Favorite movie is Pirates of the Caribbean…Majoring in Business Management.

    Sixth-ranked sophomore Pat Mahan (Owatonna, Minn.) competed in the Super Regional Three tournament on March 1 and placed first. With his first-place regional place, Mahan earned his first trip to nationals. The Division II national championships will be held in Houston, Tex., on March 13 and 14. To start the Super Regional Three, Mahan wrestled MSU-Moorhead’s Matt Norton in his first round match in the 197-pound bracket and won by pin-fall in 2:45. Mahan then defeated Dusty Vliem of the University of Mary by pin-fall in 1:19 to advance to the championship round. In the championship match, Mahan defeated Tyler Copsey of Augustana, 5-1. Mahan earned the starting 197-pound spot early in the season and has had great success throughout the year. He holds an over-all record of 21-9 on the season heading into nationals. Mahan has lost only one time in matches decided by pin-fall holding a 7-1 record. In matches decided by major decision, Mahan is 3-0 and is 11-3 in matches decided by decision. In dual competition this year he has done a very good job, posting a 7-2 record. When Mahan was asked why he chose to wrestle at MSU, he stated, “The coaches are dedicated to you and helping you reach your potential as a wrestler and as a person.” Mahan views wres-tling as a way to build character and he should know since he has been wrestling since fourth grade. When head coach Jim Makovsky was asked about Mahan he stated, “He is a big student of the game, even to the point where we had to dial him back. He loves technique, loves to drill all the time and watch film.” This may be a great indicator of why Mahan has been successful. Freshman 184-pounder Aaron Norgren (Good Thunder, Minn.) is Mahan’s favorite sparring partner. Mahan stated, “Nor-gren is because he quicker than most 197-pounders. So when I wrestle my opponents, they seem slower.” So far this season, Mahan stated that “going to Reno for the “Tournament of Champions”’ and “winning the region” were his two biggest highlights. When asked what his biggest victory of the year has been, Mahan said “beating Tyler Copsey the first time because that is when I knew I could do well”. Mahan de-feated Copsey by decision 2-1 in dual competition. Mahan blew his knee out when competing in “Reno’s Tourna-ment of Champions” and Makovsky said he knew he saw some-thing impressive in him. “I saw something in him when his knee was hurt, he worked hard not only to rehab, but to stay mentally sharp and in the game. He still wanted to work on technique, whatever the trainers would allow him to do.” When discussing his excitement and goals for nationals Mah-an stated, “I’m very excited for nationals and I am just looking to compete at a high level and wrestle well and hopefully take home some hardware.” Hopefully Mahan will be able accomplish what he is setting out to do, becoming a national champion.

    By: Kyle Bradt, Athletic Communications Wrestling Contact

    MAHAN FEATURE STORY

  • 14 2008-09 Minnesota State Wrestling Postseason Media Guide www.msumavericks.com

    2008-09 MINNESOTA STATE UNIVERSITY WRESTLING

    HWT#2 Brady Wilson

    JuniorFaribault, Minn

    MSU: Enters nationals the second-ranked heavywieght in the nation, holds a 29-3 overall record this season, finished first in the region, was NSIC Wrestler of the Week Dec. 24, and is a two-time All-American. Career record: 106-19. 2007-08: In Wilson’s sophomore campaign he compiled a 36-6 overall record… Was 13-0 in matches decided by pinfall...Wilson earned NCC wrestler of the Week in December...In February Wilson defeated the #6 ranked wrestler in the nation Dan Goodson 2-1 in OT. Finished third at 2007-08 NCAA national cham-pionship…Also captured 2007-08 regional title. 2006-07: Was 41-10 in his freshman season and was a qualifier for the NCAA II Champi-onships where he took fifth place…Went 16-1 in matches decided by pinfall and only pinfall loss came to two-time national champion Tervel Dlagnev of Nebraska-Kearney…NCC Wrestler of the Week. 2005-06: Redshirted. High School: Compiled a 114-30 mark while competing for Faribault, Minn...Minnesota high school state champion…High school coach was Jesse Armbruster. Personal: Birthday: November 9, 1986...Son of Butch and Becky...Business major…Hobbies include hunting and fishing…Favorite food is BBQ ribs…Favorite movie is Tombstone…Favorite pro sports team is MSU Wrestling…Favorite TV show is the rifle man…Favorite band is Alan Jackson.

    Minnesota State junior Heavyweight Brady Wilson (Farib-ault, Minn.), ranked #2 in the nation, will be making his third appearance at nationals which will be held at the Winter Sports Festival in Houston, Tex., March 13-14. When asked about his expectations at nationals this year Wil-son stated, “finally wrestling to my potential and winning team and individual national titles.” Wilson finished first in the region and going 3-0 with wins by pin-fall against Arron Cramer of the University of Upper Iowa, Tim Johnson of MSU-Moorhead by decision, 5-3 and Augustana College’s Lance Peters’ by pin-fall in 1:03. Wilson has had great success this season with an overall re-cord of 29-3. He holds a 9-0 pin-fall and 1-0 tech-falls. He has also earned a 4-0 major decision record and is 13-3 in matches decided by decision. In dual competition, Wilson was undefeated earning a 13-0 record. In the 2006-07 wrestling season, Wilson complied a 41-10 overall record and placed fifth at nationals. Last season as a soph-omore, he garnered a 36-6 record and took third at nationals. This year, he has only one goal in mind and that is to become a national champion. When asked what he wanted to accomplish during the rest of his Minnesota State wrestling career he left it short and sweet, “I want to win two national team titles and two individual titles.” Wilson has been wrestling for 17 years, since Kindergarten, and has loved every bit of it. In high school, Wilson compiled a 114-30 mark while competing for Faribault, Minn., and was a state champion. When Wilson was asked about why he chose to attend MSU, he stated, “MSU was a good fit and it was close to home.” Head coach Jim Makovsky was defiantly happy that Wilson choosing Minnesota State, “Brady, first and foremost is one of the premier heavyweights in the country. I’d argue that he would be a good Division I heavyweight.” Coach Makovsky discussed the benefit of having assistant wrestling coach Jon May, “Having Jon May come in as an assis-tant coach has really helped him a lot. Brady gets the snot kicked out of him everyday, May is a good wrestler and Brady is starting to have bits and pieces of success against him.” Makovsky went on to say, “I think he is a lot bigger than he was last year at this time, physically and I think mentally. He’s got the right mindset.” Wilson also discussed having May as a coach. He stated that May was his favorite sparing partner because he pushes him and challenges him everyday. He also stated that his most memorable part of the season was pinning coach May in a cradle, one of Wil-son’s favorite wrestling moves. Wilson stated that his individual title was “to win a individual title and get as many bonus points as possible to help my team win a team national title.” Wilson is the son of Butch and Becky Wilson and is a Busi-ness major. .

    By: Kyle Bradt, Athletic Communications Wrestling Contact

    WILSON FEATURE STORY

  • www.msumavericks.com 2008-09 Minnesota State Wrestling Postseason Media Guide 15

    2008-09 MINNESOTA STATE UNIVERSITY WRESTLINGSeason Records

    2008-09 Minnesota State Wrestling Individual Results

    Name Weight Total Falls T.F. Maj. Dec. Duals For.Cody Adams 125 2-3 2-1 0-2*Andy Forstner 125 27-10 7-3 0-1 4-1 13-5 12-3 3-0Brian Reisenauer 125 0-9 0-4 0-4 0-1 0-3 *Tim Haneberg 133 14-17 4-1 1-0 1-4 7-12 5-7 1-0*John Putman 141 19-7 0-3 4-0 5-1 10-3 11-2 *Tommy Abbott 149 26-6 6-2 3-0 3-0 11-2 14-2 3-2Mike Davis 149 1-2 1-0 0-2Alex Folk 149 0-2 0-2 *Travis Elg 157 19-4 10-0 4-1 4-3 7-2 1-0Derek Hahn 157 0-2 0-2Darren Olsen 157 3-6 1-1 0-1 2-4 1-2Justin Turek 157 10-13 3-4 3-2 3-7 1-5 1-0Kevin Wallraf 157 2-4 1-0 0-2 1-2 1-2Tel Todd 165 7-10 1-2 2-3 4-5 0-3 *Tim Matheson 165 20-12 6-0 3-0 5-1 7-11 7-6*Ben Becker 174 12-11 2-0 4-1 4-10 6-7 1-0 *Aaron Norgren 184 12-9 3-0 0-1 3-2 5-6 8-6 1-0Cory Harnitz 197 5-4 2-1 0-1 3-2*Pat Mahan 197 21-9 7-1 3-0 1-2 11-3 7-2 0-2Tom Block 197 10-10 2-5 1-2 4-3 4-6 3-0*Brady Wilson HWT 29-3 9-0 1-0 4-0 13-3 13-0 2-0

    * Qualified for Nationals