The University of Central Missouri Mules wrestling team started their season on Jan. 20. However, it has been hard for the team to practice during the pandemic. Head coach Justin Ensign said in the spring the team would’ve trained hard, and in the summer they would’ve had better access to the mats. During the preseason, multiple players have developed shin splints because they aren’t conditioning correctly. 

  “In the offseason, I have been working out, running, lifting and just trying to stay in shape coming into the year,” sophomore wrestler John Ridley said. 

  So far, the Mules have wrestling against four schools., and their record is 0-4 as a team. They played against McKendree University, University of Central Oklahoma, Adams State University and Chadron State College. 

  “The team looked better this weekend,” Ensign said. “The team is trying to prepare the best they can, but some players are still not sharp or adjusting to the mat.”

  The team is improving, but so are individual players. Each player has individual statistics, which are based on their weight class. Ridley is in the weight class for 157 pounds and is currently 4-0 for his duals.

  “It felt pretty good with my new weight class.”  Ridley said.  “It was a little different, but I just have to keep on adjusting.” 

  They will be traveling to Nebraska-Kearney and Fort Hays for their upcoming matches. The Ouachita Baptist University dual was canceled because of continuing protocols at their university, and UCM wrestlers missed the opportunity to improve from that competition.

  “I’m disappointed because that would’ve been more opportunity to learn and develop new skills in wrestling,” freshman wrestler Bryce Faworski said.