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Safratowich is a three-time state wrestling champion and finished his career with a gaudy 151-26 record. Safratowich recently spent time with GopherHole.com to discuss his excitement about living out his dream of wrestling for the Golden Gophers.
GH.com: How does it feel to know that you are about to finish high school and will embark on a career as a collegiate wrestler?
Tyler Safratowich: It feels great. I am very excited about wrestling for the Gophers and I know I’ll get education. I’ll also be able to wrestle in front of my family and friends.
GH.com: What were the factors that led you to signing with the Gophers?
Safratowich: It was always my dream to wrestle for Minnesota. I still went through the recruiting process, but I was really impressed with Coach Morgan. He did a great job recruiting me and the facilities at Minnesota were awesome. I think most high school wrestlers in Minnesota would love to wrestle there and it was the same for me.
GH.com: What are your thoughts about wrestling for a legend like J Robinson?
Safratowich: It will be an honor to wrestle for him. He was one of the main reasons why I chose to go to Minnesota. He’s a legend. HE can turn anyone into a great wrestler. He demands a lot from his wrestlers but everyone loves to work hard for him. That is what all the guys on the team told me when I was visiting the school.
GH.com: What weight are you going to wrestle at?
Safratowich: I will wrestle at either 133 or 141lbs. I will redshirt this next year but will still get to wrestle in five to six exhibitions to get some mat time.
GH.com: What type of wrestler can Gopher fans expect of you?
Safratowich: I am a battler. I have good technique, but more than anything I have a big heart and I think that is my biggest strength.
Talk about Tyler Safratowich and recruiting on the Gopher Wrestling message board.