Milwaukee, Wis. — The 2025 Junior National Duals opened Wednesday morning with Greco-Roman action at the Baird Center. A 9 a.m. whistle across 17 mats marked the start of four full days of competition.

Team Wisconsin went 2-2 to place fourth in Pool C, advancing to the placement bracket (to be built later this evening).

Wisconsin wrestled a great dual against South Carolina with 12 tech falls the result of high amplitude throws, lifts and a series of gut wrenches. The last three bouts lasted just 91 seconds combined, and Landen Bogard had his hand raised after just :13 seconds on the mat as he put together a fluid pair of 4-point throws.

Wisconsin fell to No. 3 seed Ohio in the next round, 47-20. But what could’ve been a momentum-killer turned into what felt like, from the side, a decision moment where the team was fully vested. Their 56-13 victory over Kansas was all energy—intentional, fast-paced, and full of execution. The dual featured highlight reel moments, including throws from Botting, Bogard and Vander Heiden, to name a few.

The final dual of the day came against Iowa. It was a hard-fought, back-and-forth battle that went in Iowa’s favor, 44-23. Wins came from Adam Whittier, Sullivan Ramos, Hunter Vander Heiden, Landen Bogard, and William Christopher, while others contributed key points.

It can’t be stressed enough how much every point matters in this format. One coach reminded a wrestler after a tough bout, “You got out there and scored points for us—that’s big. That’s big.” As a mental reminder and real numbers on the board, knowing the value of those points and fighting for the team is critical in these duals, and it’s something Wisconsin can carry with them into competition tomorrow.

“We have a positive focus and perspective for tomorrow,” said Coach Randy Ferrell on their way out. “I think our second day is going to go very well. I’m proud of everything we do for Wisconsin.” Greco is a tough sport, and Wisconsin has a tough crew.

This is the first of four consecutive years the event will be hosted by the Wisconsin Wrestling Federation in Milwaukee. Holding the tournament downtown brings a fresh experience to one of USA Wrestling’s premier duals, with teams and fans enjoying walkable access to hotels, restaurants, and the city’s public market.

Also in action this week: Wisconsin’s 14U, 16U, and Junior women’s freestyle teams are weighed in and ready to open competition Thursday at the Women’s National Duals in Westfield, Indiana. 

Helpful Notes
→ Team WI Rosters: https://bit.ly/43zCkts
→ Stream on FloWrestling
→ Brackets posted on USA Bracketing
→ ABOUT: National Duals are age-level USA Wrestling events featuring some of the most talented freestyle and Greco wrestlers on state association teams nationwide.

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The Wisconsin Wrestling Federation, guided by USA Wrestling, provides quality opportunities for its members to achieve their full human and athletic potential. Wisconsin Wrestling Federation will strive to be USA Wrestling’s best state organization.