As of November 20, 2024, the Algoma Thunderbird men’s and women’s wrestling teams have earned national recognition for their impressive performances in the Ontario University Athletics (OUA). The Algoma Thunderbird men’s wrestling team is currently ranked tenth in the country, marking a significant achievement for the program. This ranking reflects the team’s consistent hard work, skill development, and competitive spirit throughout the season.
Their success is a testament to the dedication of both the athletes and coaching staff, who have worked tirelessly to elevate the team’s profile in Canadian university wrestling. The men’s team’s national ranking has not only put Algoma University on the map in the world of collegiate athletics but also serves as a source of pride for the wrestling community and supporters.
On the other hand, the Algoma Thunderbird women’s wrestling team has been even more successful, securing the sixth spot in the national rankings as of mid-November 2024. This strong position in the OUA highlights the exceptional talent within the women’s program, which has seen athletes excel at both regional and national levels. Their competitive drive and tactical excellence have propelled them to one of the top spots in the nation, demonstrating the depth and skill within the team.
The Thunderbird women’s wrestling program continues to be a force to be reckoned with, and their sixth-place ranking serves as an inspiration for young female athletes aspiring to reach similar heights in the sport. Both teams’ rankings are a reflection of the growing strength and prominence of Algoma University’s athletic programs in Sault Ste Marie, Ontario.
Algoma Men
Athlete (Year of Study, Program, Usport Ranking, Hometown)
Oumar Abdoulahi (1st Year, Computer Science) Yaounde, Cameroon
Jace Anderson (1st Year, Business Administration, 4th at 125 kg) Taylors, South Carolina
Clayton Johnson (1st Year, Business Administration) Piedmont, South Carolina
William Mitchell (1st Year, Environmental Science) Pace, Florida
Anthony Nighbor (2nd Year, Environmental Science, 3rd, 76 kg,) Fond du Lac, Wisconsin
Algoma Women
Athlete (Year of Study, Program, Usport Ranking, Hometown)
Kira Buck (3rd Year, Psychology, 5th, 72 kg) St. Thomas, Ontario
Lilah Fraser (3rd Year, History, 5th, 83 kg) Renfrew, Ontario
Becca Gutteridge (1st Year, English, 4th, 59 kg) London, Ontario
Sienna McDonald (2nd Year, Business) Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario
Melissa Morrish (3rd Year, Psychology, 3rd, 68 kg) Timmins, Ontario
Nevaeh Pine (1st Year, Law & Justice/Political Science) Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario
Rebecca Vann (2nd Year, Business, 3rd, 50 kg) Lubbock, Texas
Thunderbird wrestling coach Trevor Manchester told Saultsports that “having both our men’s and women’s team ranked in the top ten for USports is a huge accomplishment. The women’s ranking of sixth is the highest we have reached so far. The wrestlers are doing a fantastic job on and off the mat. Our mental preparation is much better this season and we are really looking to make an impact in February when we host the OUA Championships.”