Chippewa Valley Times

The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire wrestling team began its 2024-25 season at the Yellowjacket Open, held by Rochester Community and Technical College in Rochester, Minnesota. Ian Pepple and Zak McPhee secured titles as part of the fourth-ranked Blugolds' promising start to the season.

Pepple emerged as the champion in the 197-pound category within the freshman/sophomore division, while McPhee claimed victory in the 184-pound class. The tournament saw nine Blugold wrestlers achieving placement honors. Pepple's performance was notable with a perfect 5-0 record, including four victories by fall, one being in the final match. McPhee also demonstrated strong form, winning all four matches with three falls marking his entry into college-level competition.

Landon Church achieved a third-place finish at 157 pounds with three out of four wins being bonus-point victories. Fourth-place finishes were earned by Travis Moelter at 133 pounds, Royce Butt at 141 pounds, and Brody Perry at 285 pounds. Additionally, Parker Kamm took fifth place at 141 pounds, while Ty Fink finished eighth at 149 pounds.

Looking ahead, the Blugolds will compete next at the Luther Open in Decorah, Iowa on Saturday, November 9th. The event is scheduled to commence at 9 a.m.

For ongoing updates throughout their season, fans can follow the Blugolds on their website Blugolds.com or via their app Blugold Sports and social media platforms such as Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.