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Published December 06, 2009, 08:23 AM

Shanley brings back its varsity wrestling program

Fargo, ND (WDAY Sports) - At an economic time where some schools are eliminating sports teams, a local school has added one. Shanley has brought back varsity wrestling after a twenty year drought. For most of these grapplers, it's the first time they've ever wrestled.

By: Nathan Aamodt, WDAY

  • Rented warehouse
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    They don't have a wrestling room. In fact, they practice in a rented out warehouse, but after more than 20 years, Shanley has wrestling.

Fargo, ND (WDAY Sports) - At an economic time where some schools are eliminating sports teams, a local school has added one. Shanley has brought back varsity wrestling after a twenty year drought. For most of these grapplers, it's the first time they've ever wrestled.

They don't have a wrestling room. In fact, they practice in a rented out warehouse, but after more than 20 years, Shanley has wrestling.

“We looked at it we knew there would be some hurdles to overcome. We didn't have a wrestling room or a wrestling mat.”

A phone call from a parent jump started the interest. 16 kids are out for this year's squad. Last year's junior varsity squad qualified three brawlers for state.

“It’s going to suffer through some growing pains we've got some young kids.”

The man Shanley has chosen to lead the wrestling program has a great resume. Steve Marquardt is the former wrestling coach at West Fargo. He helped build the Packers into a wrestling powerhouse during the 1990's and early 2000's.

“The opportunity presented itself so I decided to step in a lot of kids just not a lot of experience talented kids just not in the right area.”

“When our kids go to wrestling practice, I know they are being taught the right way how to do it.”

The biggest obstacle the deacons face is depth. They wrestle with 5 weight classes open, but they say it is all about getting experience and getting this program off on the right note.

“For us just it's about getting on the mat because realistically we aren't going to win many duels.”

“I ask them to come practice, work hard, and I can't ask more than that.”

A month after winning the state football championship, the new wrestling team is the new buzz on campus.

“It’s kind of that unique factor. We haven’t had it so kids are coming to see what it's all about.”

Not bad for a team that practices in a warehouse. The Deacons will host their first dual December 15th against North.

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