Welcome to the GVSU Wrestling Club! We are more than just a club; we are a platform for redemption, a space where athletes and coaches can find their true potential and thrive. It's important to note that our club operates separately from the NCAA program at Grand Valley, carving our path and forging our destiny.
As a club, we proudly compete in the NCWA (National Collegiate Wrestling Association), where our talented wrestlers showcase their skills and determination nationally. We believe in inclusivity, and our doors are open to men and women enrolled at GVSU. Wrestling knows no gender boundaries, and we strive to create an environment where everyone can excel and embrace the sport they love.
Whether you're a seasoned wrestler looking for a fresh start or a newcomer ready to embark on a thrilling journey, we welcome you to join us as we push boundaries, chase victories, and write our success stories. Explore our website to learn more about our team, events, and how you can become part of the GVSU Wrestling Club family. Let's unleash the warrior within and make this season one to remember!
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As a club, we proudly compete in the NCWA (National Collegiate Wrestling Association), where our talented wrestlers showcase their skills and determination nationally. We believe in inclusivity, and our doors are open to men and women enrolled at GVSU. Wrestling knows no gender boundaries, and we strive to create an environment where everyone can excel and embrace the sport they love.
Whether you're a seasoned wrestler looking for a fresh start or a newcomer ready to embark on a thrilling journey, we welcome you to join us as we push boundaries, chase victories, and write our success stories. Explore our website to learn more about our team, events, and how you can become part of the GVSU Wrestling Club family. Let's unleash the warrior within and make this season one to remember!
FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter
WHO? Open to any men or women currently enrolled at Grand Valley making progress towards a degree and taking at least six credit hours during the wrestling season (with a minimum of a 2.0 GPA).
WHAT? The GVSU Club Wrestling Team allows students interested in wrestling to continue their involvement while attending GVSU. It is a club-level sports team that helps students at GVSU to participate in wrestling competitions and events. The team is not a part of the university's official varsity athletic program but operates as a student-run organization.
WHEN? 5:00pm to 7:00pm Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from October to March (Thursday Team Lift 5:00 pm-6:00 pm)
WHERE? In the 14.1 million dollar wrestling facility at the GVSU Fieldhouse
WHY?
WHAT? The GVSU Club Wrestling Team allows students interested in wrestling to continue their involvement while attending GVSU. It is a club-level sports team that helps students at GVSU to participate in wrestling competitions and events. The team is not a part of the university's official varsity athletic program but operates as a student-run organization.
WHEN? 5:00pm to 7:00pm Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from October to March (Thursday Team Lift 5:00 pm-6:00 pm)
WHERE? In the 14.1 million dollar wrestling facility at the GVSU Fieldhouse
WHY?
TBD
Empowering Athletes and Embracing Redemption
At the GVSUWC, we passionately believe in wrestling's transformative power. Wrestling provides a unique opportunity for redemption, which we define as the process of overcoming past challenges and setbacks to find renewed purpose and success. Our mission is to cultivate a resilient community that finds this redemption on and off the mat, despite past setbacks.
Our Core Values:
- Show Up: We understand that showing up is not just a physical act but a commitment to personal revival. Through wrestling, we offer a pathway for individuals to show up for themselves and reclaim their potential.
- Be Prepared: We recognize that preparation is about physical readiness and mental and emotional fortitude. Our members are equipped to face challenges, embracing the opportunity for redemption with resilience and determination.
- Score Bonus Points: In the journey of redemption, we encourage our members to surpass expectations and achieve personal victories beyond the scoreboard. These could be as simple as overcoming a fear, showing sportsmanship, or demonstrating leadership. Every triumph, no matter how small, contributes to their redemption story.
- '0-0 Mentality': This is a mindset we embrace, which allows individuals to start fresh, learn from the past, and focus on continuous improvement. It's about not letting past successes or failures define us, but rather, using them as stepping stones to grow and improve.
Our Vision:
We aspire to be a beacon of redemption, a place where individuals find a second chance to pursue their athletic and personal dreams. The GVSUWC is more than a team; it's a tight-knit community that welcomes those on a comeback journey, providing the support and resources necessary for their path to self-discovery and triumph.
The GVSUWC is where redemption isn't just a possibility; it's a fundamental part of our shared narrative. Here, champions are forged not only through resilience but also through the pursuit of personal triumph, a journey that is open to all.
Grand Valley State University's wrestling legacy is marked by a history filled with triumphs, individual accomplishments, and an unwavering commitment to achieving greatness. From its commencement in the 2000-2001 season to the present day, the GVSU Wrestling Club has consistently demonstrated strategic insight, tenacity, and a dedication to molding exceptional athletes. This commitment to individual development has been a critical factor in the program's success and ability to produce top-tier wrestlers.
In a remarkable inaugural season, GVSU's wrestling club secured the National Collegiate Wrestling Association's (NCWA) national championship in 2000-2001. In its fourth year, the NCWA, a prestigious wrestling association, provided an avenue for college and university teams without varsity wrestling programs. The Lakers made a resounding statement, amassing 196 points and outclassing 30 other teams in Dallas, Texas. Fifteen Lakers achieved All-American status, finishing in the top six in their respective weight classes. Co-coaches Dave Mills and Tom Krepps led the team to victory, solidifying Grand Valley's standing on the national wrestling stage.
Laker club wrestlers also achieved after college. Tony Ferguson, a former GVSU wrestler, left an indelible mark on UFC history. After claiming the NCWA championship in 2006 under the guidance of Dave Mills, Ferguson transitioned to MMA. His journey from GVSU to the UFC is a testament to the program's ability not just to produce champions but also to nurture individuals and instill an unyielding work ethic, transforming them into the best versions of themselves.
Two GVSU wrestling alumni, Ferguson and Kevin Lee, clashed in the main event of UFC 216 for the Interim Lightweight Title. Coached by GVSU head wrestling coach Rick Bolhuis, both fighters attributed their foundational skills to the GVSU wrestling program. Ferguson emerged triumphant, claiming his first title belt with a third-round triangle choke. Their success not only affirmed GVSU's role in shaping elite fighters within the MMA arena but also made us all proud of the program's impact beyond collegiate wrestling.
In a remarkable inaugural season, GVSU's wrestling club secured the National Collegiate Wrestling Association's (NCWA) national championship in 2000-2001. In its fourth year, the NCWA, a prestigious wrestling association, provided an avenue for college and university teams without varsity wrestling programs. The Lakers made a resounding statement, amassing 196 points and outclassing 30 other teams in Dallas, Texas. Fifteen Lakers achieved All-American status, finishing in the top six in their respective weight classes. Co-coaches Dave Mills and Tom Krepps led the team to victory, solidifying Grand Valley's standing on the national wrestling stage.
Laker club wrestlers also achieved after college. Tony Ferguson, a former GVSU wrestler, left an indelible mark on UFC history. After claiming the NCWA championship in 2006 under the guidance of Dave Mills, Ferguson transitioned to MMA. His journey from GVSU to the UFC is a testament to the program's ability not just to produce champions but also to nurture individuals and instill an unyielding work ethic, transforming them into the best versions of themselves.
Two GVSU wrestling alumni, Ferguson and Kevin Lee, clashed in the main event of UFC 216 for the Interim Lightweight Title. Coached by GVSU head wrestling coach Rick Bolhuis, both fighters attributed their foundational skills to the GVSU wrestling program. Ferguson emerged triumphant, claiming his first title belt with a third-round triangle choke. Their success not only affirmed GVSU's role in shaping elite fighters within the MMA arena but also made us all proud of the program's impact beyond collegiate wrestling.
GVSU's wrestling program consistently succeeded as a team, securing NCWA National Championships in 2001, 2002, 2006, 2007, and 2008. The club's dominance extended to dual championships in 2007, 2008, and 2009. However, challenges in 2004, 2005, 2009, and 2016 only served to fuel the team's determination to overcome adversity, showcasing the program's resilience and the tenacity ingrained in GVSU's wrestling ethos. This resilience is a testament to the team's spirit and determination, inspiring all who witness their journey.
The program's impact is further evident in the accomplishments of individual wrestlers, including NCWA National Championships and recognitions such as Most Outstanding Wrestler. Notable figures like John Aikens and Zach Cooper exemplify the caliber of athletes produced by GVSU's wrestling program. The consistent presence of GVSU wrestlers on the list of NCWA All-Americans attests to the enduring excellence cultivated within the club.
In 2018, Grand Valley Wrestling (varsity and club) celebrated its 50th anniversary, bringing together over 260 current and past wrestlers, friends, and family members at the Eberhard Center in Grand Rapids. The event was filled with heartwarming stories of triumph and perseverance, expressions of gratitude, and a special appearance by wrestling legend Dan Gable, who shared his experiences and insights. These personal stories and interactions emphasized the importance of nurturing the sport and supporting the program, and they continue to inspire the current and future generations of GVSU wrestlers.
As the GVSU Wrestling Club moves forward, the program's storied history sets the stage for continued success. GVSU's wrestling program is not just a formidable presence in collegiate wrestling but a beacon of tenacity, strategic prowess, and individual brilliance. The coaching staff's unwavering dedication to excellence, coupled with the program's strategic prowess, will be pivotal in attracting and developing top-tier athletes, ensuring the program's enduring impact and sustained legacy in collegiate wrestling. The future promises new championships, outstanding individual performances, and a legacy of GVSU's wrestling excellence, instilling confidence in the program's future success.
The program's impact is further evident in the accomplishments of individual wrestlers, including NCWA National Championships and recognitions such as Most Outstanding Wrestler. Notable figures like John Aikens and Zach Cooper exemplify the caliber of athletes produced by GVSU's wrestling program. The consistent presence of GVSU wrestlers on the list of NCWA All-Americans attests to the enduring excellence cultivated within the club.
In 2018, Grand Valley Wrestling (varsity and club) celebrated its 50th anniversary, bringing together over 260 current and past wrestlers, friends, and family members at the Eberhard Center in Grand Rapids. The event was filled with heartwarming stories of triumph and perseverance, expressions of gratitude, and a special appearance by wrestling legend Dan Gable, who shared his experiences and insights. These personal stories and interactions emphasized the importance of nurturing the sport and supporting the program, and they continue to inspire the current and future generations of GVSU wrestlers.
As the GVSU Wrestling Club moves forward, the program's storied history sets the stage for continued success. GVSU's wrestling program is not just a formidable presence in collegiate wrestling but a beacon of tenacity, strategic prowess, and individual brilliance. The coaching staff's unwavering dedication to excellence, coupled with the program's strategic prowess, will be pivotal in attracting and developing top-tier athletes, ensuring the program's enduring impact and sustained legacy in collegiate wrestling. The future promises new championships, outstanding individual performances, and a legacy of GVSU's wrestling excellence, instilling confidence in the program's future success.
Our training philosophy is unique, focusing on meticulous skill development and the art of flow and chain wrestling. This distinctive approach sets us apart and ensures that your time on the mat is unlike any other wrestling experience.
Our practices are about pushing you to your limits and creating a supportive and challenging environment for you to thrive in. We focus on drilling and refining your wrestling skills, emphasizing mastering the art of flow and chain wrestling. This involves seamlessly linking a series of moves to outsmart your opponent. Be prepared for high-intensity drills that will challenge you and elevate your technique.
Our training program is not just about drills and techniques. We believe in the practical application of your skills. That's why we incorporate numerous short, high-energy live sessions that simulate match conditions. This approach ensures that the techniques you've been honing in drills are not just theoretical but can be effectively implemented in real wrestling scenarios, giving you the confidence to take on any opponent.
In our wrestling program, we understand that each wrestler is unique. We encourage you to craft your move matrix – a personalized arsenal of techniques tailored to your strengths and style. This approach ensures that you're learning moves and developing a strategic and diverse set of tools uniquely suited to your capabilities.
Our practices are about pushing you to your limits and creating a supportive and challenging environment for you to thrive in. We focus on drilling and refining your wrestling skills, emphasizing mastering the art of flow and chain wrestling. This involves seamlessly linking a series of moves to outsmart your opponent. Be prepared for high-intensity drills that will challenge you and elevate your technique.
Our training program is not just about drills and techniques. We believe in the practical application of your skills. That's why we incorporate numerous short, high-energy live sessions that simulate match conditions. This approach ensures that the techniques you've been honing in drills are not just theoretical but can be effectively implemented in real wrestling scenarios, giving you the confidence to take on any opponent.
In our wrestling program, we understand that each wrestler is unique. We encourage you to craft your move matrix – a personalized arsenal of techniques tailored to your strengths and style. This approach ensures that you're learning moves and developing a strategic and diverse set of tools uniquely suited to your capabilities.
Our program is not for the faint of heart. We expect our wrestlers to embody the discipline and tenacity of college wrestlers. This means maintaining constant contact with your partner throughout drills and live sessions, and ensuring your hand is always on your partner. We also have a strict 'no hip on the mat' policy when taken down, a rule that underscores the crucial role of balance and control in wrestling. These expectations are not just rules, but they are the foundation of our program and what sets our wrestlers apart. Our goal is to inspire and motivate you to join us and adhere to these principles, becoming the best wrestler you can be.
After being taken down, we instill the habit of immediate action. Wrestlers are expected to respond swiftly by knee sliding and standing up promptly. This demonstrates resilience, helps minimize the impact of takedown, and keeps you in an advantageous position.
Our wrestling practices are dedicated to honing your skills, improving your technique, and enhancing overall performance. We understand the importance of weight management in wrestling, but we firmly believe that practice time should be solely devoted to refining your wrestling abilities. While maintaining a healthy weight is essential, we emphasize that heavy sweat or layers designed for weight loss should be reserved for individual training outside our practice sessions. Our practice time is precious, and we want every wrestler to maximize their efforts in perfecting their craft.
What sets us apart is our innovative approach to conditioning, tailored specifically to the demands of wrestling. Unlike traditional methods that focus on general sprinting or running, our regimen is designed to enhance your wrestling-specific fitness. We prioritize activities such as [interval training, circuit training, and plyometric exercises] that build endurance, strength, and agility directly applicable to the demands of wrestling . This unique approach ensures that every minute of conditioning serves a purpose in your development as a wrestler, cultivating the specific endurance required for the fast-paced, dynamic nature of wrestling. It's a fresh take on training that will keep you engaged and excited about your progress.
After being taken down, we instill the habit of immediate action. Wrestlers are expected to respond swiftly by knee sliding and standing up promptly. This demonstrates resilience, helps minimize the impact of takedown, and keeps you in an advantageous position.
Our wrestling practices are dedicated to honing your skills, improving your technique, and enhancing overall performance. We understand the importance of weight management in wrestling, but we firmly believe that practice time should be solely devoted to refining your wrestling abilities. While maintaining a healthy weight is essential, we emphasize that heavy sweat or layers designed for weight loss should be reserved for individual training outside our practice sessions. Our practice time is precious, and we want every wrestler to maximize their efforts in perfecting their craft.
What sets us apart is our innovative approach to conditioning, tailored specifically to the demands of wrestling. Unlike traditional methods that focus on general sprinting or running, our regimen is designed to enhance your wrestling-specific fitness. We prioritize activities such as [interval training, circuit training, and plyometric exercises] that build endurance, strength, and agility directly applicable to the demands of wrestling . This unique approach ensures that every minute of conditioning serves a purpose in your development as a wrestler, cultivating the specific endurance required for the fast-paced, dynamic nature of wrestling. It's a fresh take on training that will keep you engaged and excited about your progress.
Newsletter
NCWA National Championships:
NCWA National Dual Championships:
NCWA National Runner-Up:
NCWA National Dual Runner-Up:
NCWA Most Outstanding Wrestler:
- 2001, 2002, 2006, 2007, 2008
NCWA National Dual Championships:
- 2007, 2008, 2009
NCWA National Runner-Up:
- 2004, 2005, 2009, 2016
NCWA National Dual Runner-Up:
- 2006, 2016
NCWA Most Outstanding Wrestler:
- 2010: John Aikens (197)
- 2016: Zach Cooper (141)
Coach Lancaster's Anchored Blog discusses the philosophy and mindset of the program:
"State-of-the-art, world-class training facilities, mats, coaches, and training partners." - '24 Veteran World Champion Jeff Anderson
"It is an excellent opportunity to compete at the next level without sacrificing the experience of being a college student—also a great way to connect with like-minded, competitive people." - Rob Willsea, GVSU Alumni ('89)
