UNI wrestling getting more support from school leaders

When Brad Penrith signed a contract extension in March he was quick to note the promise of more support from the University of Northern Iowa athletics department.

He's now acknowledging that boost from the administration.

“I just think that there's a change of attitude up here and we have full support of our administration,” Penrith said. “We have a little more resources so all that helps us.”

According to Penrith, second-year UNI Athletics Director Troy Dannen has provided financial support and is dedicated to help elevate and unite the Panther program. Some fans have voiced frustration with the program's performance in reason seasons.

“He wants us to be good. When everybody's on the same page and you realize how important wrestling is for UNI it helps,” Penrith said. “Troy's reaching across the aisle. He's trying to build a bridge with the university and wrestling people. He wants to open the doors and invite these guys back in and we're excited about it.”

One selling point might be an upgrade in facilities. Dannen, Penrith said, wants to help the program obtain the necessary resources.

“That's something we've had quite a few talks (about),” Penrith said. “He supports the idea. He wants to help us secure the funding.”

Recent commitments from Denver-Tripoli's Levi Wolfensperger and Columbus Junction's Seth Noble are a sign that things are improving.

Wolfensperger won the Class 2A 119-pound state title in February, his third trip to the finals. He posted a 54-1 record last year, is 138-4 in his career and could become the 38th four-time state finalist in Iowa history.

Noble, who is 135-6 in his career, is a three-time medalist. He won a 2A crown at 135 in 2008 and placed second at 140 last year.