By: Danny Chen
After two-time NCAA champion Tony Nelson graduated last spring, the Gophers wrestling program had a vacant starting spot at the heavyweight position.
Redshirt sophomore Michael Kroells has taken Nelson’s spot and has big shoes to fill.
The wrestling team has had 22 individual national championships, and seven of them have been heavyweights.
Kroells, who is 2-0 to start the season, has a chance to add to that winning tradition.
Head assistant coach Brandon Eggum said Kroells has a chance to become great because of his discipline.