Carl Serck of Hudson, S.D., and
Nate Herda of Rock Rapids, Iowa, have signed national letters of intent to attend Augustana and wrestle for the Vikings, head coach
Jason Reitmeier announced today.
"Carl and Nate are exactly the kind of student-athletes we were looking for, strong in the classroom and on the mat," Reitmeier said of his new additions. "They both bring a lot of experience with them, wrestling year-round and a hunger to win. We couldn't be happier with these two signings."
Serck is a 2007 state champion from Alcester-Hudson High School. Last season, Serck compiled a 47-2 overall record, setting a school record for victories in a season. He also recorded 136 takedowns en route to earning All-Big Sioux Conference honors. Named the Outstanding Wrestler at teh Webster and Chester Tournaments, Serck also earned a silver medal at the Disney Duals.
Serck went 37-5 as a sophomore, earned all-conference honors and qualified for the Class B state tournament. But his season was cut short due to a late-season injury. As a freshman in 2005, Serck put together a 46-11 record and finished 5th at the state tournament.
"Carl is a an exceptional athlete. He is a well rounded wrestler, good in all positions on the mat," Reitmeier said. "Carl excels on his feet, were he is a very technical wrestler. He will add depth to our middle weights and will wrestle at either 149 or 157 pounds. Carl is also a wonderful student. I am excited to have the oppertunity to work with Carl for the next four years."
Herda also won a state title in 2007 at Central Lyon High School in Rock Rapids. Last year, Herda posted a 43-1 record while rolling to conference sectional and district titles. An All-Siouxland Conference and Class 1A All-State performer, Herda helped the Lions to a 24-0 record and a conference championship in 2007.
A three-time all-conference performer, Herda posted a 42-6 record with 105 takedowns in 2005-06 after collecting a 49-8 record with 116 takedowns as a freshman in 2004-05. His 49 wins and 116 takedowns were school records. Herda finished 5th at the 2006 state tournament and 8th at the 2005 state meet.
"I am excited about the addition of Nate to our wrestling team," Reitmeier said. "He lives to wrestle, training all year around. Nate is another well rounded wrestler but is exceptional on his feet. Nate is a true student of the sport, always looking to learn more. Nate will compete for us at either 133 or 141 pounds."
