MARSHALL, Minn. - Southwest Minnesota State head wrestling coach
Jesse Nelson announced today that Ethan Hildebrandt from St. James, Minn., has signed a letter of intent to continue his academic and athletic career at SMSU. Today is the first day of the early signing period for NCAA wrestling programs.
Hildebrandt is currently a senior at St. James High School where he has excelled on the mat and in the classroom. Through his junior year, Hildebrandt has compiled 145 wins--51 coming by fall. He is also a four-time state qualifier and three-time conference and two-time section champion. Hildebrandt, who is projected to wrestle at 133 pounds for SMSU, captured a second-place state finish in 2008 and third-place honors in 2009.
The two-year team captain has also picked up numerous awards for his performance in the classroom. Holding a cumulative grade point average of 3.97, Hildebrandt is a member of the National Honor Society and was named Academic All-State first team.
Hildebrandt wrestles for his father, Gene, who coached Nelson when he was in high school.
“This is a very unique and special opportunity for me to have the opportunity to coach my high school coach’s son,” said Nelson. “I’m honored he put his trust in our program to develop his son. Ethan is a very talented wrestler and will fit in well with our team; he’s a hard worker who will do great things here at SMSU.”
The Mustangs open the 2009-10 season on Saturday in Fargo, N.D., at the Bison Open. SMSU’s first dual action is on Nov. 20 at St. Olaf.