EAU CLAIRE, Wis. (Blugolds.com) - The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire wrestling program has named six additions to its coaching staff, announced head coach Tim Fader.
Former Olympic Gold Medalist John Peterson headlines the group, bringing decades of experience to the Blugold staff. 
A 1976 Olympic Gold Medalist, Peterson also won a Silver Medal in 1972 and was a World Cup Champion in 1973, 1975 and 1980 along with being a five-time United States National Freestyle Champion. In addition to his many accolades on the mat, Peterson coached U.S. teams in over 10 countries.
"His wisdom and experience as a wrestler, coach and human being will help our students be the best they can be," said head coach Tim Fader. "The athletes and this university are fortunate to have him as part of this campus; it's just fantastic we have someone of his caliber here at UWEC."
Also joining the staff is Blugold wrestling alum, Mat Rieckoff. A season ago, Rieckoff capped off his
senior season at NCAA national tournament and earned National Wrestling Coaches Association (NWCA) Scholar All-American honors.
Former Warhawk Elroy Perkin also joins the coaching ranks. Perkin earned All-America honors, finishing fifth at the national meet the last two seasons and was the Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (WIAC) champion at 149 pounds a year ago.
"My goal is to surround the student-athletes with the best possible people," said Fader. "These mentors will help them be not only excellent wrestlers, but also better men."
Also added to the staff are three volunteer assistants; former head coach Steve Wozniak, former
coach and UW-La Crosse two-time All-American Russ Peloquin and alum Jeremy Peery. 
"We are very fortunate to have our volunteer coaches as they will be key with helping with the transition," said Fader. "And with being professionals in the community they can really help us with our community outreach. It says a lot when you have so many people who are willing to help elevate the program."
The Blugolds will kick off the season on Nov. 1st at the Yellowjacket Open hosted Rochester Community and Technical College.
