Matside Minnesota

Chris and Tim are back with another NCAA Nationals Special Edition — starting with a quick recap of the Minnesota high school grads, Gophers, and NDSU wrestlers they’re following in Cleveland.Then things get special. Tim’s daughter, Steph Rice, joins the show to share a perspective we don’t hear often enough. A three‑sport high school athlete who would have wrestled in a heartbeat if girls wrestling had existed back then, Steph talks about what the sport meant to her, what she missed out on, and what it’s like watching today’s generation finally get the opportunities she never had.It’s heartfelt, honest, and the perfect addition to our NCAA coverage.Support the show

We kick off our NCAA Nationals coverage with a special episode packed with road trip memories, wrestling stories, and the athletes we’ll be following in Cleveland. After 16 years of traveling together, we’ve got tales to tell!  We are spotlighting three groups of wrestlers:Minnesota high school grads chasing national gloryNorth Dakota State standouts ready to make noiseUniversity of Minnesota Gophers with championship dreamsFrom the basement to the big stage, this is Matside Minnesota Extra — Special Edition.Support the show

Yeah…Season one in the books, Minnesota style.Grab your headgear, we takin’ it matside.Twenty-two episodes, yeah we put in the grind,Talking Minnesota wrestling every single time.From the first big show when the season got goin’,Coach Horn and Moen had the welcome mat rollin’.Pillager in the house, yeah the wrestling world grew,Building up the community, that’s what wrestlers do.Cardinal editions digging deep in the past,Staples wrestling history all the way back to ‘59 fast.Derek on the mic asking questions so clean,Studio he built looking sharp on the scene.Chris telling stories from the ref’s point of view,Years on the whistle so you know it’s all true.Sometimes we stumble with the “alright… well…”Tryin’ to drop the ums but you know the show’s swell.Talking coaches all around the state line,Koetter, Card, Pickar, Wagner — wrestling lifeline.Bemidji girls coach Bahr brought the energy through,Then Adam Hagen — yeah we taped that one twice too.Technical glitches but we powered right through,That’s podcast wrestling grit — what we do.Big moment though, history written that night,Three Staples-Motley girls heading down to state lights.Girls wrestling rising and we’re learning the game,Minnesota’s growing — remember the name.Live from Anchor North, yeah the crowd came to hear,“Winner winner chicken dinner!” fundraiser cheer.Cardinal fans backing wrestlers all season long,That community support keeps the program strong.Got a superfan listenin’, never missin’ a take,Willy Tappe tuned in to every move we make.Even brought a clock so the hosts stay on track,Still run long sometimes — but we appreciate that.So thanks for listening all across the state line,From youth mats to the bright state tournament shine.Season one done but the story’s not outside—Stay strong……and stay Matside.Support the show

Matside Minnesota – Cardinal EditionFor our final Cardinal Edition of the season, we’re closing things out with two powerful conversations that capture the heart of Staples‑Motley wrestling.We begin with Mark Anderson, Editor of the Staples World newspaper, who recently wrote the editorial “Staples‑Motley Wrestling 2026 Was an All‑Time Top Team.” Mark joins us to talk about the numbers, the history, and the moments that make the case that this year’s Cardinals might be one of the best Class A teams ever assembled.In the second segment, we welcome senior Turner Beachy for a long‑awaited interview. Turner’s story is one of resilience, loyalty, and incredible athletic range. From a season filled with injuries and illness, to cutting down to 127 pounds for the good of the team, to his past success as a state wrestling placewinner, pole vault champion, and member of a state runner‑up football team — Turner has lived one of the most unique careers in Cardinal history. And now, he’s heading to Miles City, Montana to pursue his passion for rodeo.A fitting finale to a special season of Cardinal Edition — full of pride, perspective, and the stories that make this community so special.#MatsideMinnesota #CardinalEdition #StaplesMotley #MNwrestling #HighSchoolWrestling #TurnerBeachy #StaplesWorldSupport the show

We are back from an unforgettable weekend at the Minnesota State High School League State Wrestling Tournament, and this episode is all about reliving the best moments. We  share our experiences both matside and inside the NSPN streaming booth, where we helped bring wall‑to‑wall coverage of every match to fans across the state.We break down the matches and teams that stood out, the storylines that defined the weekend, and the moments that will stick with us long after the lights at Grand Casino Arena fade. A mix of reflection, analysis, and the kind of storytelling that makes the state tournament special every single year.#MatsideMinnesota #MNwrestling #StateTournament #HighSchoolWrestling #NSPN #MSHSLSupport the show

Matside MinnesotaThis week’s episode is a two‑part sprint toward the postseason.In Segment One, we break down team section tournaments from the past weekend, giving each class just six minutes on the clock. It’s fast, focused, and packed with takeaways from one of the most exciting weeks of the year.In Segment Two, we welcome Aaron Lorentz of MNwrestle to help preview this weekend’s individual section tournaments. Once again, the timer is set for six minutes per section, covering storylines, top contenders, and the matchups fans should be watching as wrestlers battle for their ticket to Grand Casino Arena.A rapid‑fire, info‑loaded episode that sets the stage for an electric postseason.#MatsideMinnesota #MNwrestling #SectionTournaments #HighSchoolWrestling #MNWrestle #RoadToStateSupport the show

Matside Minnesota – Cardinal EditionIn this episode, We sit down with two of the Staples‑Motley Cardinals’ most experienced and wrestlers, Elijah Greenwaldt and Riley Reese. Both seniors are highly ranked in their weight classes and bring the perspective of athletes who have already battled their way to the Minnesota State Tournament in past seasons.The guys talk through some of the biggest matches of the year, how these seniors have grown as competitors, and what it means to lead a Cardinal team with major postseason aspirations. Elijah and Riley share insights on training, mindset, and the challenges of navigating a tough schedule as they prepare for one final run.A great mix of experience, personality, and Cardinal pride.#MatsideMinnesota #CardinalEdition #StaplesMotley #MNwrestling #HighSchoolWrestling #ElijahGreenwaldt #RileyReeseSupport the show

Matside MinnesotaIn this fast‑paced episode, we break down all seven sections we cover — 6A, 7A, 8A, 6AA, 7AA, 8AA, and 8AAA — using a six‑minute timer for each preview. Some sections stayed within regulation… and a couple needed overtime.We look at:The top seeds in each sectionPotential high‑stakes rematchesOne or two must‑watch individual matchupsStorylines that could shape the road to stateIt’s rapid‑fire and full of the energy that makes section week one of the best times of the year in Minnesota wrestling.#MatsideMinnesota #MNwrestling #SectionPreview #HighSchoolWrestling #RoadToStateSupport the show

Matside Minnesota – Cardinal EditionThis week, we celebrate a moment that will be remembered forever at Staples‑Motley High School. Kana Reese, Leah Greenwaldt, and Anika Tureson made school history by becoming the first girls ever to qualify for the Minnesota State High School Girls Wrestling Tournament. Kana and Leah each battled their way to second place, while Anika became the first girls section champion in Cardinal history.We sit down with all three trailblazers — along with their coach, Holt Truax — for a fun, energetic, and heartfelt conversation. The group talks about their section matches, the emotions of qualifying, the growth of girls wrestling, and what it means to be the first to break through.There are laughs, great stories, and plenty of Cardinal pride as these athletes get ready to take the mat at the Grand Casino Arena.#MatsideMinnesota #CardinalEdition #GirlsWrestling #StaplesMotley #MNwrestling #StateBound #WrestlingHistorySupport the show

Two ranked Cardinals. Two big personalities. One episode you don’t want to miss.This week on the Cardinal Edition, we sit down with 189‑pound hammer Luke Bjerga and heavyweight force Adrian Gomez to talk big wins, big moments, and the road to the section tournaments. These two are wrestling their best when it matters most, and they brought the energy to the studio.Catch the full conversation — and get ready for postseason fireworks#MatsideMinnesota #CardinalEdition #StaplesMotley #MNwrestling #HighSchoolWrestling #LukeBjerga #AdrianGomez #STMOwrestlingSupport the show

In this episode, we sit down with Mark Kuisle, Activities Director at Big Lake High School and co‑manager of the Minnesota State High School League State Wrestling Tournament. Mark brings a rare behind‑the‑scenes look at how the state’s biggest wrestling event is organized, operated, and continually improved.We dive into the new state tournament format, why changes were made, and how they impact athletes, coaches, and fans. Mark also shares insight into the logistical challenges of running a multi‑day, multi‑class event, details most people never see.If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to run one of the premier wrestling state tournaments in the country, this conversation pulls back the curtain.#MatsideMinnesota #MNwrestling #StateTournament #MSHSL #HighSchoolWrestling #BigLakeWrestlingSupport the show

Episode 11 brings a special in‑studio conversation with Bill Wagner, former Minnesota Coach of the Year and current head girls coach for BHVPP, along with his daughter Elora, a defending state runner‑up and one of the top-ranked wrestlers in Minnesota.Together, the Wagners take us inside the rapid rise of girls wrestling, sharing what it’s been like to build a program, develop athletes, and watch the sport explode across the state. Elora talks about her journey, the pressure and pride of competing at the highest level, and what drives her as she chases another shot at the top of the podium.We also rewind the clock for some classic high school wrestling stories — the kind only longtime Minnesota wrestlers and coaches can tell. It’s a mix of insight, humor, and genuine love for the sport from two people who live it every day.If you care about the growth of wrestling in Minnesota, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.#BHVPPwrestling #MinnesotaWrestling #MatsideMNSupport the show

In this episode, we sit down with two of the biggest names in Minnesota high school wrestling: Colbe Tappe and Gage Bjerga. Both are currently ranked #1 in their weight classes, both have state titles, and both recently notched wins over nationally ranked opponents.Colbe talks about his victory over the No. 11 wrestler in the country and what it means heading into the heart of the season. Gage breaks down his electric win over the top-ranked AA senior committed to Oklahoma University — a matchup that turned plenty of heads across the state.The guys also dive into the rise of the #1‑ranked Staples‑Motley Cardinals, the culture inside the room, and what this team is building toward.And as a bonus, some great salvaged audio from the first recording session, you’ll hear those extra cuts at the end of the episode.#CardinalEdition #MatsideMinnesota #StaplesMotley #MNwrestling #HighSchoolWrestling #ColbeTappe #GageBjergaSupport the show

In this episode, we kick things off with a north central Minnesota breakdown of the new all‑class rankings released by MNwrestle. Then we welcome a guest who needs no introduction in Minnesota wrestling circles, Rance Bahr. After 14 years leading the Bemidji boys program, Rance has become one of the strongest advocates for girls wrestling in the state and now serves as the head coach of the Bemidji girls team. His passion, perspective, and commitment to growing the sport make this conversation one you won’t want to miss.A mix of rankings, insight, and one of the most influential voices in Minnesota wrestling — Episode 10 brings it all together.#MatsideMinnesota #GirlsWrestling #BemidjiWrestling #HighSchoolWrestling #RankingsBreakdown Support the show

In Episode 9 we recap the biggest events across the region with a focus on the Rick Lee tournaments in Bemidji.#MatsideMinnesota #RickLeeDuals #MNwrestling #HighSchoolWrestlingSupport the show

In Episode 8 we keep it simple and get straight to the action. With no guests this week, we recap the biggest New Year wrestling events across the region, The Clash in La Crosse and Rumble on the Red in Fargo.#MatsideMinnesota #TheClash #RumbleOnTheRed #MNwrestling #HighSchoolWrestlingSupport the show

Cardinal Edition – Episode 1: The Early Years of Cardinal Wrestling Matside Minnesota – Cardinal EditionWe’re kicking off the very first episode of the Cardinal Edition by going back to where it all began. We sit down with Mike Hajek, one of the foundational voices in Staples-Motley wrestling history, to revisit the early years of the Cardinal program. From the culture that shaped generations of wrestlers to the stories that still echo through the gym, this episode is full of memories, perspective, and Cardinal pride.As alumni ourselves, launching this edition feels like coming home, and there’s no better way to start than honoring the roots of a program that means so much to the community.Whether you’re a longtime fan, a former wrestler, or a parent of today’s athletes, this episode sets the tone for what the Cardinal Edition is all about: celebrating the people, stories, and legacy of Staples-Motley wrestling.#CardinalEdition #MatsideMinnesota #StaplesMotley #MNwrestling #WrestlingHistory #CardinalPrideSupport the show

Episode 7: Previewing The Clash In this episode, We keep it simple and focused: The Clash is coming. Held in La Crosse, Wisconsin, this nationally recognized high school wrestling tournament features 29 teams from 11 states, including Staples-Motley, Perham, and Pierz — three programs close to home. With 4 Nationally ranked teams in the mix, it’s one of the toughest and most exciting events in the country.We’re hitting the road to watch it live, but first we break down what makes The Clash so special, what to expect from our area teams, and why this tournament is a must-watch for Minnesota wrestling fans.#MatsideMinnesota #TheClash #MNwrestling #HighSchoolWrestling #StaplesMotley #Perham #Pierz Support the show

Episode 6: Northwoods Wrestling on the Rise  This Christmas Day episode is packed with stories, highlights, and a whole lot of Minnesota wrestling spirit.We kick things off by breaking down the week’s top match highlights from across Minnesota, big performances, standout duals, and the moments that caught our attention on the mats.After that we spotlight a story from Babbitt, Minnesota, where Northeast Range/Ely is building something special in what has traditionally been hockey country. Head coach Adam Hagen joins us to share how he launched the program, the challenges of starting from scratch in a remote corner of the state, and the momentum they’re building in just their second season.And in the middle of it all, we bring in a little holiday cheer with fun messages from some Staples-Motley wrestlers.Whether you're celebrating with family, traveling to a holiday tournament, or just relaxing at home, we hope this episode brings you a smile and keeps you connected to the wrestling community we all love.🎄 Merry Christmas from Matside Minnesota! Thanks for listening, supporting, and being part of this growing statewide wrestling family.#MatsideMinnesota #NorthwoodsWrestling #MNwrestling #HighSchoolWrestling #ChristmasEpisode #WrestlingCommunity #NortheastRange #ElySupport the show

Episode 5: 3 For the TakedownIn this episode, Chris Etzler and Derek Holst kick things off with a quick recap of last week’s key matches across Minnesota wrestling before diving into one of the biggest topics from last season — the rules changes.We’re joined by Colbe Tappe, Colby Marich, and Jim Lynch for an in‑depth discussion on how the new scoring, including the 3‑point takedown, near fall points change, and out of bounds definition has impacted competition, strategy, and the overall flow of matches.Whether you’re a coach, wrestler, or fan, this episode breaks down what these changes mean for the sport and how they’re shaping the future of high school wrestling.#MatsideMinnesota #HighSchoolWrestling #MNwrestling #RulesChanges #3ForTheTakedownSupport the show

Episode 4 — Weekly Recap + Brainerd’s New CoachThis week on Matside Minnesota, Chris and Derek kick things off with a recap of last week’s biggest matches, breaking down key results and storylines across Minnesota wrestling.Then we welcome Andy Pickar, the new Head Coach at Brainerd High School. Coach Pickar shares his vision for the Warriors program, his approach to building culture, and what excites him most about leading the team.🎉 A fun highlight: Coach Pickar’s daughter Ariana joins the conversation! Ariana is currently ranked individually in Minnesota, and the Brainerd Warrior girls team also holds a state ranking — making this a true family wrestling moment.Subscribe for weekly episodes featuring coaches, athletes, officials, and stories from across Minnesota wrestling.#MatsideMinnesota #HighSchoolWrestling #MNwrestling #BrainerdWarriors #CoachSpotlightSupport the show

This week on Matside Minnesota, we bring you a double feature. First, Chris and Derek share their season overview, highlighting area wrestlers to watch and storylines that will shape the 2024–25 season across central and northern Minnesota.Then, we sit down with Lynn Jennissen, Class AA ratings editor for The Guillotine, Minnesota’s wrestling newspaper. Lynn takes us behind the scenes of his process for evaluating wrestlers across all 13 weight classes and building the Top 10 rankings — a task that blends data, match results, and plenty of judgment calls.Support the show

We sit down with two new head coaches to hear how they’re building programs, connecting with their communities, and preparing athletes for the season. Jamey Koetter (Holdingford) and Tate Card (Minnewaska) share coaching philosophies, early priorities, and the small decisions that shape a team’s culture.Support the show

In the heart of Minnesota, a new wrestling program is taking shape, bringing excitement and opportunity to young athletes. The inaugural episode of the Matside Minnesota podcast dives deep into the journey of Pillager High School as it rolls out its first varsity wrestling program in 46 years, showcasing the passion and dedication of its coaches and community.The Matside Minnesota podcast, hosted by wrestling enthusiasts Chris Etzler and Derek Holst, aims to spotlight high school wrestling across central and northern Minnesota. Each week, they provide match recaps, interviews, and insightful stories that celebrate the athletes, coaches, and communities that enrich this beloved sport. The podcast promises to be a platform for interaction, inviting listeners to share their own wrestling stories and experiences.Pillager High School has a rich history of co-op wrestling, previously joining forces with Brainerd and Little Falls. However, this year marks a significant milestone as the school launches its own varsity program. Chris and Derek sit down with Ben Horn, the new head wrestling coach, and Matt Moen, the activities director, to discuss the challenges and triumphs of building a program from the ground up.Starting a new wrestling program requires careful planning and dedication. Coach Horn and AD Moen emphasize the importance of grassroots initiatives, focusing on youth engagement to create a sustainable pipeline of talent. They recount the process of recruiting athletes, securing funding, and establishing a culture that fosters growth and competitiveness. They also highlight the community's support, which has been instrumental in getting the program off the ground.One of the significant hurdles in launching the program was navigating the requirements set by the Minnesota State High School League. AD Moen describes how the process was surprisingly straightforward, involving simple forms and communication with existing co-ops. The goal was clear: to provide opportunities for young wrestlers in Pillager, and the league was supportive of this vision.The camaraderie within the wrestling community is palpable, as both coaches and former opponents come together to support Pillager's new venture. Coach Horn shares anecdotes of mentorship from experienced coaches and the collaborative spirit that defines the wrestling culture in Minnesota.In launching its varsity wrestling program, Pillager High School is not just creating a team; it’s building a legacy that will inspire future generations of wrestlers. The dedication of Coach Horn, AD Moen, and the supportive community exemplifies the true spirit of high school athletics. As the wrestling season unfolds, all eyes will be on Pillager, eager to witness their journey.Support the show