Carl Serck of Hudson, S.D., and Nate Herda of Rock Rapids, Iowa, have signed national letters of intent to attend Augustana and wrestle for the Vikings, head coach Jason Reitmeier announced today.
"Carl and Nate are exactly the kind of student-athletes we were looking
for, strong in the classroom and on the mat," Reitmeier said of his new
additions. "They both bring a lot of experience with them, wrestling
year-round and a hunger to win. We couldn't be happier with these two
signings."
Serck is a 2007 state champion from Alcester-Hudson High School. Last
season, Serck compiled a 47-2 overall record, setting a school record
for victories in a season. He also recorded 136 takedowns en route to
earning All-Big Sioux Conference honors. Named the Outstanding Wrestler
at teh Webster and Chester Tournaments, Serck also earned a silver
medal at the Disney Duals.
Serck went 37-5 as a sophomore, earned all-conference honors and
qualified for the Class B state tournament. But his season was cut
short due to a late-season injury. As a freshman in 2005, Serck put
together a 46-11 record and finished 5th at the state tournament.
"Carl is a an exceptional athlete. He is a well rounded wrestler,
good in all positions on the mat," Reitmeier said. "Carl excels on his
feet, were he is a very technical wrestler. He will add depth to
our middle weights and will wrestle at either 149 or 157 pounds. Carl
is also a wonderful student. I am excited to have the oppertunity to
work with Carl for the next four years."
Herda also won a state title in 2007 at Central Lyon High School in
Rock Rapids. Last year, Herda posted a 43-1 record while rolling to
conference sectional and district titles. An All-Siouxland Conference
and Class 1A All-State performer, Herda helped the Lions to a 24-0
record and a conference championship in 2007.
A three-time all-conference performer, Herda posted a 42-6 record with
105 takedowns in 2005-06 after collecting a 49-8 record with 116
takedowns as a freshman in 2004-05. His 49 wins and 116 takedowns were
school records. Herda finished 5th at the 2006 state tournament and 8th
at the 2005 state meet.
"I am excited about the addition of Nate to our wrestling team,"
Reitmeier said. "He lives to wrestle, training all year around. Nate is
another well rounded wrestler but is exceptional on his feet. Nate is a
true student of the sport, always looking to learn more. Nate will
compete for us at either 133 or 141 pounds."