Recently cracking the poll, the men's squad was rewarded and ranked in the Top 20 for the first time in school history. They were at No. 20 (tied), and the Panthers also won some individual accolades. 

One of the stars has been Manny Oliver. Oliver has entered the rankings twice this season. In the second NJCAA Poll, he ranked fourth at 157 (lbs), and in the latest poll, he is third at 157. 

"I see everybody is getting dedicated. The true ones that enjoyed the sport and worked for common goals stuck around. So, the team has gotten closer, and the work ethic has made an impact. That can all be a challenge with cold weather, going home, waking up, and seeing it dark outside. I am thankful to compete as much as I did before being injured. I am proud of getting two college wins after last year when I didn't even wrestle," Oliver said. 

Oliver injured his left knee in December (LCL) and will be out for the rest of the season, but he has been sensational this season. The future is bright for Oliver. The ability to maintain a positive mindset often separates the successful ones.

"This is another road to jump over. There is always something to improve upon, and we are looking forward to being the best down the stretch run. I am hopeful for next year with a successful and timely recovery," Oliver said. 

The star took first place at Muskegon (11/5) and Lindenwood (11/19). Teammate Victor Vargas finished second at Henry Ford and sixth at Triton.

The dynamic duo is atop the leaderboard for the Panthers in team points, wins, falls, and takedowns (two points). Oliver had 33 takedowns and led that category. However, Vargas led with 14 wins, nine falls, and 52.00 team points. 

"This is the most important month of the year, it will be vital to fixing every little detail before the National Tournament, and we need to be at our best. Making sure everything is up to date with practice and school is important," Vargas said. 

"It is time to put it together, to do our best. We have been going over the film, keeping intensity in practice and learning from our mistakes," Vargas said. 

Putting it all together is what head coach Chris Butz has done so far. He discussed how the final month could shape up and how keeping the team fresh is vital.

"Being mindful of the guys and girls and being sure they are maintaining their weight and knowing their weight class. We focus on keeping the same intensity as we wind down to save their bodies to help prevent injury," Butz said. 

The first season for the women has been fun for all involved. The excitement and ability to bond with one another. That is what collegiate sports are about since the experiences last a lifetime.

"My favorite part of the team is the great friendships. I think it is a connection for our team. The coaches have helped so much this season. I am using the rest of the season and summer to prepare for my sophomore season. I want my next season to be even better than this one, and we have all learned so much," Maria Diaz said. 

In the second season for men wrestlers and the first season for women wrestling, the Panthers would love nothing more than to have momentum in their favor as the season wraps up. There will be a few freshmen returning as we could see their best season yet next year, and coach Butz is looking for that to come to fruition.

"Finishing the season on a strong note, having the team understand how we finish the season can springboard into the summer and how we develop as sophomores for the freshman. We create that discipline now and are on the right track for future success," Butz said. 

The women will have the Grand View Open in Des Moines, Iowa (2/4). The men will have four meets in January, and the Panthers have used their time off wisely. 

First will be a trip to Minnesota for the Northwood Duals this Saturday. The squad will then have busy weekends from Elmhurst to Palatine and back to Cicero for the Region IV Duals. 

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