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Athlete of Week

Hunter Vander Heiden named USA Wrestling Athlete of the Week, presented by U.S. Air Force Special Warfare

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by Savannah Asmann, USA Wrestling

Askren Wrestling Academy's Hunter Vander Heiden won titles in Greco-Roman and freestyle at the WWF State Championships.

Hunter Vander Heiden (Little Chute, Wis./Askren Wrestling Academy) has been named the USA Wrestling Athlete of the Week, presented by U.S. Air Force Special Warfare, on May 7, 2025.


Last weekend, Vander Heiden dominated at the Wisconsin Wrestling Federation State Championships, claiming titles in both freestyle and Greco-Roman in the Junior division at 285 pounds.


In freestyle, Vander Heiden went 4-0 en route to the title. In his first match, he won by fall at 1:09. He followed up with back-to-back technical falls, setting up a championship match against Fargo All-American Cael Leisgang of Askren Wrestling Academy. In the final bout, Vander Heiden defeated Leisgang, 10-2.


Vander Heiden also won a title in Greco-Roman. He wrestled in two matches, winning the first by 8-0 technical fall. In the final, Vander Heiden wasted no time, pinning 2024 16U Fargo All-American Preston Krueger of Aviators Wrestling in just 28 seconds to secure his second championship of the tournament.


Vander Heiden is a 2024 Junior Fargo All-American in Greco-Roman, placing fifth.


To nominate a wrestler for this honor please email the athlete's name, wrestling program, weekly accomplishments, and career accolades to communications@usawrestling.org.

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The Airmen who make up Air Force Special Warfare are part of the most highly trained warriors on the planet. A job for the mentally tough and physically strong, these elite heroes go anywhere in the world to bring unique skills and fearless commitment – whatever the mission requires. Only the best of the best are chosen and they embody their mottos: Any Time, Any Place and These Things We Do That Others May Live!
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