Throughout the offseason, Windsor head girls wrestling coach Ryan Nuspl made some major changes to his program. Many pieces of equipment were ordered, a new assistant coach was hired, the room was painted, and even a job switch was made.
“I’ve spent 40+ hours painting the mezzanine which is now our dedicated practice space,” Nuspl said. “I also made the move to the high school this year from the Intermediate Center so I could be around the athletes.”
Another major change that has been applied to the program is adding a female coach to the staff. Désireé Oestricker, a special education teacher, will now be Nuspl’s assistant coach.
“Having a female on staff is going to help out tremendously and the girls are excited,” Nuspl said.
The girl’s side of the program has two returning state qualifiers: Ashley Hansen, who qualified as a freshman, and Sydney Streckfuss, who qualified as a sophomore. The girls team also won the JCAA conference last year.
“I also have Lily Pauley who is healthy again after a season ending injury at our first tournament last year,” Nuspl said. “Reese Ronzio has also put a lot of work in since the end of last season and is showing a lot of promise at the lower weight class.”
Nuspl has two main goals for his side of the program this year.
“I want to take more girls to state…I took two last year and would love to see four go this year and I think we have a good chance of making it happen,” Nuspl said. “I (also) want to win the JCAA conference championship again.”
The boy’s side of the wrestling program is just as ready to get their season started. The boys return three state qualifiers–seniors Luke Patterson and Brice Henry, and freshman Lane Cobb. Henry finished second at state after losing in the title match. Patterson lost in the “bubble match,” which means he was one win away from being home a state medal.
Due to these returners, head coach Jacob Gegg has high expectations for the 2024-25 season.
“Our primary focus is on getting our wrestlers high-quality matches that will better prepare us for districts and State,” Gegg said. “If we can win around 75% of our duals, I would consider that a successful season.”
The Owls are hopeful that they will bring home multiple state medals this season.
“Both Luke and Brice need to continue putting in the hard work and dedication they’ve shown so far. It’s crucial for them to consistently seek out tough competition and embrace the challenge,” Gegg said. “With their current work ethic and the right mindset, I believe they’re capable of achieving their goals.
