Huskers Honored at Annual Banquet

The Nebraska wrestling team held its postseason banquet at the Graduate on Friday, April 8. Several Huskers took home individual awards, while the entire team was honored for its accomplishments during the 2021-22 campaign.

All-American Ridge Lovett (149) received Nebraska’s Most Outstanding Wrestler Award following his second-place finish at the NCAA Championships. The sophomore from Post Falls, Idaho, went 24-4 during the 2021-22 season, which included a team-high 10 conference wins.

Seventh-year senior Christian Lance (285) was named the Most Improved Wrestler after his eighth-place performance at the NCAA Championships. Lance finished the year with a 19-11 record and made the All-American podium for the first time in his career.

Redshirt junior transfer Boo Dryden captured Redshirt-of-the-Year honors after an undefeated record at 133 pounds. He won three open tournaments, recording three pins and four technical falls.

All-American Peyton Robb (157) was named the Most Courageous Wrestler as he placed fourth at this year’s NCAA Championships. Robb climbed the consolation bracket and garnered NCAA All-American status for the first time.

Senior All-Americans Schultz and Lance won the Lifter of the Year award, while freshmen Brock Hardy (141) and Brandyn Van Tassell (184) received the Tough Together award. Hardy, a native of Brigham City, Utah, went undefeated and recorded a first-place finish at this year’s MVC Open. A fellow Utah native, Van Tassell compiled a 6-5 mark, including three victories by major decision.

Following the team awards presentation, the seniors spoke about their careers at Nebraska. The banquet ended with Head Coach Mark Manning looking ahead to the 2022-23 season.

2021-22 Nebraska Wrestling Award Winners

Most Outstanding Wrestler: Ridge Lovett 

Most Improved Wrestler: Christian Lance

Redshirt of the Year: Boo Dryden

Most Courageous: Peyton Robb

Tough Together Award: Brock Hardy/Brandyn Van Tassell 

Lifter of the Year: Eric Schultz/Christian Lance