Findlay Roughnecks rising to the challenge

By: Collin Frazier

frazierc@findlay.edu

@Collin_53

Oiler wrestling looking to continue successful season

The Findlay wrestling team has made quite the statement this 2021-2022 season, slowly climbing up the national rankings to where they are currently sitting at 9th place. A collective effort to face adversity is a contributing factor to this season.

“We got a lot of guys stepping up,” fifth-year James Wimer explained. “I’m pretty good. We have Branson Proudlock– he’s really good.”

James Wimer. Credit: UF Athletics Department.

“We got some guys coming in and helping out. So, we got a lot of talent in the room. We beat up on each other every day and I think some of that’s starting to show some of that hard work,” Wimer continued. “Practicing with the right guys is really rubbing off on some of these guys that are a little newer [and] maybe not as skilled, if that makes sense.”

The Roughnecks just wrapped up the G-MAC championship, going 0-2 on Day 1 and 1-1 on Day 2.

Moving past the conference championship, Wimer will have the chance to defend his Division III National Championship in the 157 lb class in March. How has he prepared for this opportunity?

Same old, same old.

“It’s really just business as usual,” said Wimer. “I believe in myself, my coaches believe in me, all my teammates are behind me and I’ve just been working like I usually do – eating right, sleeping right.” 

“I haven’t really changed up much. I think I can do it again, and I think everyone around me thinks I can do it again and that’s really the most I need.”

As Wimer prepares to hit the mats for his final season, he is already looking beyond his collegiate career.

“[I am ready] just to get on with life,” Wimer proclaimed “’I’ve been in college a long time. [I have] been wrestling a long time.”

“I’m not really looking forward to being done with wrestling, but I really am looking forward to starting my life with my girlfriend and stuff– getting a place to live. “I’m getting pretty old. I’ll be 24, so maybe start a family soon.”

The Roughnecks continue their 2021-2022 campaign February 5 at the Greyhound Duals in Indianapolis. 

Featured photo: UF Athletics Department

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