Triton, Joliet compete at NJCAA Wrestling Nationals

In a season unlike any other, Triton College and Joliet College were two of six programs to represent the North Central District (Region 4) at the 2021 NJCAA Wrestling Championships in Council Bluffs, Iowa. The Trojans amassed 29 points to finish 18th overall, while the Wolves placed 29th with a dozen points.

Triton College freshman Curtis Ruff II posted the best result, wrestling to a sixth-place finish in the 285 bracket. As a result, Ruff earned NJCAA All-American status. Phillip Sims (149) joined Ruff in the Round of 16, but was unable to progress any farther. In addition to Ruff and Sims, the Trojans also sent Anthony Schickel (125), Jaylan Claudio (133), Cole Watkins (157), and Jack Lingle (141) to the national tournament. (Triton College Athletics story)

Joliet Junior College also boasts an All-American in 2021, with Andres Russi placing sixth overall at 125. The Wolves were also represented by Brett Yegge (141), Cameron Bergman (149), Jeremy Pullen (157), Ryan Graff (165), Mason Sargent (174), and Daniel Landando (285). (Joliet Junior College Athletics story)

Due to the Covid-19 Pandemic, there was no North Central District Tournament in 2021, as the NJCAA waved the district requirement to qualify for nationals.

(Image courtesy of Triton College)