The New Ulm High School wrestling team is seeking students to step into one of the program’s most important behind-the-scenes roles. They need people willing to clean mats, record matches, create social media posts, and keep things in order.
With only one returning manager, the team faces a significant hole heading into next season. Assistant coach Aukes said managers are essential to keeping the program organized and running efficiently.
“Managers are a huge help to the coaching staff,” Aukes said. “They help organize and issue team gear at the start of the season. During the season, the managers film matches at tournaments and record stats of all the wrestlers, which is a huge burden off the coach’s shoulders.”
Aukes added that managers took on an even bigger role this year by promoting the team through social media, helping increase visibility and highlight athletes’ performances.
Junior Kate Schmidt, the team’s only returning manager, said the loss of two experienced members has created an urgent need for replacements.
“That means that there’s only one manager left (me),” Schmidt said. “They definitely have left shoes to be filled.”
Schmidt explained that the role requires commitment and responsibility, both during practices and at competitions. Managers are expected to track individual wrestler records using the Mat Boss app, take attendance, and help maintain the wrestling room by cleaning and preparing mats.
“It’s not a job that I would say is light because we don’t just sit around all the time,” Schmidt said. “We definitely have a job to do.”
In addition to technical and organizational duties, Schmidt said managers also contribute creatively by running the team’s social media accounts. This includes making posts, filming matches, and producing wrestler interviews; tasks that help build team culture and engagement.
She said students interested in the position should be willing to learn the sport and communicate regularly with coaches and athletes. While prior wrestling experience is helpful, Schmidt emphasized that a strong work ethic and an interest in the team are equally important.
Schmidt also noted that the position requires a time commitment, with practices during the week and tournaments often taking up weekends. Despite the busy schedule, she said the experience is worthwhile.
Managers get to work closely with the team, build relationships with wrestlers, and gain a deeper understanding of the sport, she said. Aukes agreed, noting that the role offers students a meaningful way to be part of the program while supporting both athletes and coaches.
With the upcoming season approaching, the team hopes more students will step up to fill the open positions and continue the strong support system that wrestling managers provide.
