By Madison Canez, Staff Writer
Newman senior Jace Fisher finished sixth place at the 2025 Division II National Championships in Indianapolis last month — the highest a Newman wrestler has finished a season since 2020.
He also earned All-American honors at the championships, which also hasn’t happened for a Newman wrestler since 2020.
“I was determined to finish my last season on the podium at nationals," Fisher said.
Fisher's first matchup at the tournament was against Jack Haskin of Lake Erie. He lost 4-10 and ended up in the first consolation round.
He then went up against Trent Munoz of Nebraska Kearney and was able to secure a win in a tie breaker, leading him to make it to the second consolation round.
The victory is what earned Fisher his All-American honors and also guaranteed him a chance to compete on day two of the tournament.
“This was the most memorable moment for me — to secure a spot,” he said. “And all of the pressure I felt was gone thereafter, and it was truly an amazing experience from there.”
The next day, Fisher was able to defeat Bailey Gimbor from Kutztown University and earned a spot in the semifinals consolation match.
In the semifinals, Fisher said, he was determined but was unable to beat Dajun Johnson of Wisconsin Parkside.
He was able to compete for fifth place, though. He wrestled against Cory Peterson of McKendree University but fell short, ultimately securing sixth place.
DeLeon Freeman, a teammate of Fisher, said he was inspired watching everything that Fisher accomplished at Nationals.
“Observing athletes like Fisher compete with such passion has fueled my own drive,” Freeman said. “The experience has provided me with a clearer vision of the dedication required to reach the pinnacle of collegiate wrestling.”
This was Fisher’s second time qualifying for nationals but the first time he earned so many honors.
“I have a passion for the sport and even more of a passion for teaching others,” Fisher said. “I plan on giving back to the sport because it has given me everything.”
PHOTO: Courtesy, Newman Athletics
