The Huskies will add five new grapplers on the wrestling team for next season.

This year’s signing class is Carlos Champagne of Marion Catholic High School, Hayden Krein of Sparta High School, Dalton Hoover of Martins Ferry High School, Gage Braun of St. Paris Graham High School and Terrese Aaron of Mexico High School.

“We addressed lineup needs with high quality individuals,” said coach Ryan Ludwig. “These men can wrestle and have had a lot of success on the mat.”

Four of the five commits are ranked top 20 in the nation, according to multiple sources.  

Carlos Champagne was the GFC champion, Illinois State runner-up, and is nationally ranked #20 according to Wrestling USA Magazine.

Hayden Krein was the Wisconsin State Champion, Junior AA Greco Champion, and is nationally ranked #14 according to Wrestling USA Magazine.

Dalton Hoover placed third at the Ohio State Wrestling Tournament.

Gage Braun was a finalist at the Ohio State Wrestling Tournament and is nationally ranked #17 according to flowrestling.com.

Terrese Aaron was the Missouri State wrestling champion, NHSCA national champion, and is ranked #13 according to flowrestling.com.

“They are men of character and share the NIU wrestling vision of achievement in all aspects of life,” said Ludwig. “We are excited about this class in the early signing period.”

The Huskies will be back in action 9 a.m. Saturday as they head to Bloomington, Indiana for the Indiana Duals.