Chippewa Valley Times

Jared Stricker has set a new benchmark for wrestling at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. The senior from High Bridge, Wisconsin, became the first two-time national champion in Blugolds history by defeating Nathan Lackman of Alvernia 7-1 in the 174-pound finals at the NCAA Championships held at Amica Mutual Pavilion.

Stricker's victory not only capped an unbeaten season but also secured his place as UW-Eau Claire's first undefeated national champion. "I think guys were out to get me this year after being a champion," Stricker said. "It could put a little bit more pressure on me, but it wasn't enough I guess."

Lackman, who had previously won the 2023 title at 165 pounds, was unable to overcome Stricker's dominance. After a scoreless first period, Stricker took control with an escape and takedown in the second period and maintained his lead with another takedown in the third. "You want to compete against the best and beat the best," Stricker remarked.

Stricker is now one of only three wrestlers in program history to be named an All-American three times. He concluded his final season with a perfect 43-0 record and ended his career with a remarkable 71-match win streak. His achievements include setting school records for career victories (169) and pins (75).

Reflecting on his time at UW-Eau Claire, Stricker said: "It's been amazing. I'm so glad I chose to come to Eau Claire and help this program grow."

Stricker was named Most Outstanding Wrestler of the NCAA Championships after conceding just four points throughout the tournament.

In other results from UW-Eau Claire, Ian Pepple finished sixth at 197 pounds during his debut appearance at the NCAA Championships. Pepple clinched All-America status by advancing through Friday’s rounds but fell short in subsequent matches against Baldwin Wallace's Joseph Petrella and Johnson & Wales' Dylan Harr.

Pepple wrapped up his season with a record of 37-14, setting a new single-season pin record for UW-Eau Claire with 25 pins.

The Blugolds finished ninth overall in team standings at nationals for their second consecutive top-ten finish, accumulating 40.5 points during the championships.