Chippewa Valley Times

Jared Stricker of the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire has set a new record in the Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference for career victories. Competing at the NCAA Division III Region VII tournament held at Augsburg, Stricker achieved his 162nd career win, surpassing Ryan Allen's previous record of 161 set in 2006.

The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire wrestling team had a strong performance on Friday, with all ten wrestlers still vying for spots in the NCAA Championships as they enter the final day of competition. The Blugolds are currently third in team standings with 84.5 points, following Augsburg and UW-La Crosse.

Several Blugold wrestlers are competing for regional titles in their respective weight classes. Zach Sato advanced to the semifinals after winning by technical fall and will face Aidan Ruddy from Concordia Moorhead. Preston Carlisle secured his place in the 165-pound semifinals with a first-period pin and is set to compete against Tanner Gerber from UW-La Crosse.

Stricker reached the 174-pound semifinals through two quick pins and will meet Carson Trotzer from UW-Stevens Point next. He is also aiming for his third regional title and has moved up to third place in conference history for career pins.

Niall Schoenfelder advanced to the 184-pound semifinals with decisive wins and will face Brandt Bombard from Augsburg. Ian Pepple also made it to the 197-pound semifinals after two victories, including a fall and a decision win; he will wrestle Parker Venz from Augsburg.

Blugold wrestlers who lost matches remain eligible for national contention through consolation brackets, including Izzy Balsiger, Travis Moelter, Finn Bloomquist, Landon Church, and Sloan Welch.

The tournament concludes on Saturday at Si Melby Hall starting at 11 a.m.