Chippewa Valley Times

The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire wrestling team achieved a significant milestone on Saturday by defeating four NCAA Division II opponents and remaining unbeaten at the Southwest Minnesota State University. Senior wrestler Jared Stricker, from High Bridge, Wisconsin, set a new record for the Blugolds with his 65th career pin during the first dual of the day.

Ranked fifth in Division III, the Blugolds managed to secure victories against No. 24 Upper Iowa, Fort Hays State, Minot State, and Southwest Minnesota State. Both Fort Hays and Minot State had received votes in the latest National Wrestling Coaches Association Division II Top 25 poll.

The Blugolds' performance included a 32-16 win over Fort Hays, a 27-11 victory against Upper Iowa, a 43-9 triumph over Minot State, and a 34-9 win against SMSU. Stricker broke Evan Lawrence's previous record of 64 career pins by pinning Connor Padgett from Fort Hays in the tournament's first dual. Stricker ended the day with four wins: two pins and one technical fall.

Freshman Zak McPhee from Duluth, Minnesota went undefeated at 184 pounds with three falls. Meanwhile, second-ranked Zach Sato from Oswego, Illinois secured three bonus-point victories at 149 pounds.

The team recorded a total of 13 pins throughout the day and improved their season record to 16-1.

The Blugolds will compete next at the North Country Open hosted by St. John's (Minn.) on Sunday, January 19.

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