The wrestling season has already delivered plenty to celebrate, as the team continues to prove it belongs among Minnesota’s elite with big-time wins, strong tournament finishes, and unforgettable home environments.
One of the biggest highlights so far came on the road against No. 2–ranked Chatfield, a rival that had gotten the better of the program since the dual series began three years ago. This time, however, the script flipped in dramatic fashion.
“Beating the #2 ranked Chatfield in a rivalry we haven’t come out on top in since we started this dual three years ago, at their place, which was rockin’,” said head coach Ryan Hill. “That was a huge moment for our kids.”
The team carried that confidence into some of the toughest tournaments in the Midwest. At the Minnesota Christmas Tournament, the squad placed an impressive fourth overall, finishing behind three nationally ranked programs from across the region. Not long after, the team traveled to Kaukauna, Wisconsin, for the prestigious Cheesehead Invitational and earned an eighth-place finish among many of the top programs in the country.
Closer to home, Military and First Responders Night delivered another memorable moment as the team edged Zumbrota-Mazeppa in a thrilling 29–27 dual. The meet featured several key upsets and momentum swings, with wrestlers stepping up in critical matches to secure the narrow victory in front of a loud, packed crowd.
“Military Night is my favorite event of the year. When we get our home schedule set, Military Night gets precedence over all the other special events,” Hill said. “It’s loud, it’s standing room only. Our Military Night has really turned into a big deal for Southeast Minnesota wrestling.”
The evening included a heartfelt message of appreciation from event organizer Jason Strum, who thanked all veterans and first responders in attendance for their service and sacrifices.
Hill emphasized that the night is about more than just wrestling, it’s about perspective and gratitude.
“Military Night is the most significant pre-competition talk we have all year,” Hill said. “I want them to look into the stands and realize that their freedom to compete was earned by the people watching—and by those who made the ultimate sacrifice.”
That message has resonated not only with the team, but with opposing programs and communities throughout the area.
With signature wins, national-level competition, and a growing reputation for electric home environments, the team has positioned itself for an exciting second half of the season, one built on toughness, gratitude, and the refusal to back down when things get hard.
By Coach Ryan: “Friday night was a lot of fun. It was such a great night for our program. There were a lot of military and first responders that came out and weathered the cold. And both teams put on a show for them. ZM is very hard to beat and I’m glad it was a battle for those that we were honoring to witness. I’m very grateful for the ZM program and community that showed up and helped make the night what it was, Friday night doesn’t happen without them. Now it’s time to get back to work.”
