The University of Wisconsin-Platteville wrestling team saw a tough night Jan. 22 as they were swept by the University of Augustana, 34-9, and the University of Dubuque, 41-0.
The three victories of the night, all against Augustana, came from junior Mason Bohm at 149 pounds, junior Cole Ferguson at 125 pounds and senior Randy Wade at 165 pounds.
Wade was one of three seniors honored between matches. He is graduating in May with a major in building and construction management. Highlights of his senior season include a 4th place finish at the MSOE Invite and 5th place at the Flash Flanagan Open.
Robbie Kerr and Trent Larson were the other seniors honored. Kerr has wrestled for the Pioneers at 165 and 174 pounds for the past four seasons. He will graduate in May with a major in animal science and an emphasis in dairy, crop and soil sciences.
Larson intends to graduate in May with a major in building and construction management and has competed for UW-Platteville the last three seasons. Larson won 12 of his 19 matches this season.
“I wrestled alright tonight, I just ran into a tough kid,” said Larson.
Larson lost 11-3 to Jordan Richardson from the University of Augustana.
Larson praises his parents for allowing him to pursue his passion for wrestling and is also grateful for the coaches that helped him throughout his career.
“Putting in the time and effort each day, and giving us the chance to compete,” Larson said.
Ferguson won his first match in overtime against Jimmy Panozzo from the Augustana. Ferguson faced Panozzo earlier in the year bringing on quite the rematch.
“It was a good match to win and he is a great competitor,” Ferguson said.
Head coach Mike DeRohn expects to see Ferguson at nationals this year and possibly on the podium. Ferguson began the season ranked 8th in the nation at 125 pounds.
“it’s an opportunity for us to learn from our mistakes and make the changes,” DeRohn said.
The Pioneers rebounded Jan. 24 at the Muskie Quad, sweeping MSOE 35-19, Lakeland College 31-17, and St. Johns (Minn.) 35-11.
The Pioneers hit the mat again Saturday, Jan. 31 at the Duhawk Open beginning at 9 a.m. in Dubuque.