Former Wetumpka wrestler Chad Strickland won first ever match for Montevallo wrestling program as a freshman, won 23 matches as a sophomore

Scott Nickerson 

Elmore Autauga News

Former Wetumpka wrestler Chad Strickland was the State Runner-Up in the 138-pound division of Class 6A in 2023. He finished his senior season with an impressive record of 40-3, which included wins over a Class 7A state champ, a class 5A state champ, and #1 ranked competitors from Florida and Louisiana. 

Strickland continued his wrestling career at Montevallo and was a part of the school’s first ever wrestling program. In fact, Strickland won the first ever match in the University of Montevallo wrestling program history with an 8-1 decision at the Championship Round 1 of the 141 freshman/sophomore 141 bracket at the Patriot Open. He went 3-2 at the Patriot Open. 

As a freshman, Strickland won 11 matches and placed 3rd in the Georgia Open with a 4-1 record and 10.5 team points earned. 

Strickland improved in his sophomore season, winning 20 matches and 3 more by forfeits. He was one of only five Montevallo wrestlers with more than 20 wins on the season. He won four matches and placed 6th in the Hawk Open Classic. 

“The most memorable moment by far was our dual against Huntington last year. We had a packed-out gym and it was insanely loud. It was awesome being able to wrestle in front of that crowd and get that one-of-a-kind experience.” 

Strickland hopes to improve on his win total and placement as a junior and senior. 

“My goals are placing at multiple tournaments as well as placing at the regional tournament.” 

The junior is majoring in communication studies and is training in the off season by wrestling some of his teammates and workouts, which included intense CrossFit works during the summer. 

Committing to the wrestling program and being a part of the school’s first ever program has been very demanding for the college student. 

“You have to commit your life to it and do all of the right things to keep your body and mind in the best shape possible. As well as the many hard practices we have to go through all while trying to get down to weight. It’s very mentally and physical demanding.”