ELMHURST, Ill. - The Elmhurst University men's wrestling team heads north to the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point to open its season at the Pointer Open on Saturday, Nov. 7 at 9 a.m. 

The Bluejays begin the season tied for eighth in the National Wrestling Coaches Association (NWCA) Tournament Team Rankings and were picked third in the College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin (CCIW) Preseason Poll.

"Our expectation has always been to win the CCIW Championship and send wrestlers to the NCAA Championships," said head coach Steve Mariantetti. "We have been climbing the conference ranks and I believe we have an even stronger team this year."

The Bluejays have several key wrestlers returning to the mat this season, including 2026 national finalist Rhenzo Augusto and NCAA qualifier Ryan Hinger. Augusto begins his junior campaign ranked first at 157 pounds after finishing as the national runner-up last season, while Hinger starts his sophomore season off ranked fourth at 149 pounds. 

In addition to returning all other remaining starters, the Bluejays welcome a stellar recruiting class who are ready to contribute to the team. Marianetti looks forward to seeing how the group performs throughout the season.

Following opening weekend, the Blue and White welcome the Wheaton College Thunder for a CCIW dual on Friday, Nov. 13. Action is set to begin at 7 p.m. from R.A. Faganel Hall.