Chippewa Valley Times

The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire wrestling team has announced changes to its coaching staff for the 2025-26 season. Head coach Tim Fader shared that former wrestlers Jared Stricker, Colton Sund, and Jackson Schichel will join the staff.

Jared Stricker, who is returning to the program, is recognized for his achievements during his time as a Blugold wrestler. He earned two NCAA national championships, three All-America honors, three NCAA regional championships, four WIAC championships, and made four appearances at the NCAA tournament. In his senior year, Stricker set a WIAC record with 169 career wins.

"Jared's knowledge of wrestling is through the roof and he finished up a college folkstyle career as one of the all time greats in Division III wrestling," said Fader. "He won more matches than anyone in WIAC history and did not lose to a Division III wrestler his last two years. Our upper weight class wrestlers are going to be the real winner here...as working with Jared is going to have an impact."

Colton Sund also returns after achieving 76 wins during his four-year collegiate career. Sund was twice champion at the 8-man battles in 2021 and 2023 and was named a NWCA Scholar All-American in 2023.

"Colton had a very impactful career as a Blugold," Fader said. "He was a Scholar All American and Team Leader during his time competing at UW Eau Claire. Colton wrestled some very significant matches for us and finished with 76 career victories. I know he will continue to make those around him better as a coach as he brings that great attitude and work ethic every day."

Jackson Schichel will be joining for his second year as an assistant coach after competing for UW-Eau Claire from 2020-2024 at both 197 and 285 pounds.

"Jackson was a high energy competitor from 2020-2024 at 197 and 285 for the Blugolds," said Fader. "He became a Team Leader and unanimous 'hype man' after transferring into UWEC. I love that he brings that same energy as a training partner to the heavyweights in our room."

The wrestling team's season will begin on Saturday, November 1 at the Yellowjacket Open in Rochester, Minnesota.

More information about the team can be found at Blugolds.com or by following their social media accounts on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.