Emily Leighton | Staff Writer

Brad Kerkhoff is a freshman wrestler from Audubon, Iowa. Here at Buena Vista University (BVU), Kerkhoff is majoring in Exercise Science and Human Performance.

Kerkhoff has seen the transition from high school to college challenging, but also rewarding.

“My first season wrestling for BVU has been an exciting experience all the way through, and it all culminates with regionals and nationals. It’s a huge transition from high school and I’ve come a long way,” Kerkoff said.

Kerkoff attributes a majority of his development to the new coaches and teammates along with their mindsets that he has been able to gain in coming to wrestle at BVU.

“I’m very fortunate to be wrestling under a skilled coaching staff with a tight-knit group of teammates. Having the atmosphere of seeking constant improvement has been great for my development,” Kerkhoff said.

Head Coach Jeff Breese can see that Kerkhoff’s discipline and outlook will help this team grow and help this team succeed.

“Brad brings a commitment to do the right things and live the right life style on and off the mat. He also adds a dynamic of expected success to our team and lineup. He shows others that you can come to BVU and be successful at a high level right away,” Breese said.

Kerkhoff looks ahead to the upcoming seasons but with Nationals coming up, Coach Breese won’t let him slip away just yet.

“In preparation for next season I’m looking to become bigger, faster, and stronger as well as developing into a more complete wrestler. Every year we’re going to be striving to create a championship culture here at BVU,” Kerkhoff said.

The Beavers wrestled at the NCAA Regional Tournament Sunday, Feb. 28, and unfortunately had no wrestlers qualify for the National Tournament.

Photo by Kyle Wiebers