Covering the men’s wrestling team this year was quite an experience. Not only were the players and coaches helpful in giving interviews, but it was great to listen to head coach Ed Vatch’s colorful quotes during the course of the season.

For example, the following Vatch quote was in reference to the Huskies’ 158-pounder, Tim Cocco.

“He’s a model type of kid. There are so many type of good things you can pick up from Timmy. If I was head of a major corporation, I would turn it over to him.”

When it came to talking about top 167-pounder Joe Madonia, this article could be filled with just Vatch quotes on his star sophomore.

“He’s changed a lot since he’s been here. He use to be a pretty boy, G.Q. Now he’s just Joe Madonia with overalls and boots.

When it comes to talking about his lone 1988 Nationals qualifier, Anton Kossakowski, Vatch had a lot to say.

“If he gets beat, he lets you know he was there. He’s the type of kid we need for our program at this stage because he’s not afraid of anyone,” Vatch said. “When you wrestle teams like Nebraska, Oklahoma and Purdue, they look to intimidate you, but Anton won’t let you.

“All I can say is I’m glad he’s on our schedule—he’s a thouroughbred.”

Another colorful quote came from one of the wrestlers, Tom Hoy.

Hoy explained one match he was in while competing in the Greco-Roman Junior World Meet.

“I was in this one dual meet with this one dude from Japan and pinned him in 13 seconds.”

Hoy expresses his appreciation for having a coach like Vatch.

“Vatch and my older brother were the only coaches I ever had. Vatch is a true motivator,” Hoy said. “When I was going through a time when I had some physical problems, Vatch told me to keep my head up and things will start to click in.”