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The wrestling team has come out on top in the NAIA the past three seasons by winning national championships in 2012, 2013 and 2014. The wrestlers now look forward to 2015, and set their goals toward gaining a third NAIA National Championship.

With such previous success, the wrestlers said finding a way to continually improve has become a new challenge for the program.

Dylan Blackford, freshman at 174 pounds, said he believes his team has what it takes to continually make the strides necessary to consistently be national championship contenders, both individually and as a team.

“Staying humble, staying hungry, wanting to get another national title and wanting to be the best team out there, it’s not a problem, it’s just our challenge, keeping that hungry mindset and wanting it as bad as ever,” Blackford said.

Blackford said the culture of the team helps create an environment for all the wrestlers to thrive in.

“Motivation is one of our biggest intangibles as a team; everybody that’s in the wrestling room is motivated,” Blackford said. “We hold each other accountable to working hard. Intensity is high, and a hard-working attitude in the room allows us all to excel.”

“One thing coach Mitchell reiterates is that we haven’t won anything yet this year,” Jimmie Schuessler, senior at 165 pounds, said. “We won in (the) 2013 and 2014 (seasons) but have yet to win in 2015. We talk about how good we can be, not only as individuals but as a team, and really maxing out and trying to reach those goals.”

Schuessler also commented on the diversity of the team and how it allows for success within the program.

“We have kids from all over, inner-city kids, country boys, East Coast, West Coast, which allows you to be able to wrestle against different styles, types and ways of wrestling,” Schuessler said. “Overall, it makes it a better learning atmosphere and keeps it interesting.”

Nick Mitchell, head wrestling coach, said it is important the wrestlers have the will to come into his program with the mindset of wanting to see how good they can become, not just in wrestling but in all aspects of life.

“We want to bring in good guys that want to work hard, and making sure they are doing the right things on and off the mat,” Mitchell said. “We want guys that can buy into this championship lifestyle and make us better and not complacent.”

Mitchell said whether his wrestlers are freshmen or seniors, having everyone on the same page is key to continually moving the program forward.

“It’s all about the work that gets put in, not just going through the motions,” Mitchell said. “Whether they are new freshman or were a part of it all last year they have to approach this season as if they’re going after something they’ve never had.”