The Augustana College wrestling team reached unchartered territory by ascending the No. 1 ranking in this week’s NCAA Division II Wrestling Coaches’ Association Top 20 Poll, released Wednesday.
The Vikings, who had been ranked No. 2 most of the season, fell to No. 4 in the poll in the last poll two weeks ago. However, wins over No. 3 Nebraska-Kearney (27-14) and No. 1 Nebraska-Omaha (20-19) helped Augustana to the top spot. It is the first time the Vikings have been ranked No.1 in the nation. Nebraska-Omaha, the defending
In addition, four Vikings are ranked No. 1 in their respective weight classes.
Tom Meester (184) and Ryan King (149) remained No. 1, while Aaron Graumann (125) and Tim Boldt (197) moved into the No. 1 rankings. Other Vikings who are ranked are Austin Scarset, seventh at 157 pounds, Cody Henriksen, sixth at 165 pounds, Dusty Wilking, fifth at 174 pounds and Cris Bietz, eighth at heavyweight.
Augustana, 13-2 in duals this season, will compete in the North Regional Championships on Sunday, February 27, in Marshall, Minn. The top four individuals in each weight class will advance to the NCAA Division II National Championships on March 11-12 in Omaha, Neb.
