Minneapolis, MN – University of Minnesota Gopher Wrestling will host their February 21st dual with Rider University at Northrop, instead of their usual home venue of Maturi Pavilion. Northrop, presenter of world-class dance and music performances, and host to speakers, films, comedians, exhibits and more, will transform to host a wrestling match for the first time in its nearly 90-year history.

Similar matches have been hosted at campus performing arts centers in the past at the University of Missouri and Virginia Tech.

Head Coach Brandon Eggum said, “It’s going to be a really amazing and unique opportunity for our supporters, coaches, and wrestlers. Anyone who’s been to Northrop knows how cool the building is and the way the seating is set up will have our fans almost on top of the mat. It’ll be especially cool for our seniors to wrestle their final career home match in a unique venue.”

Northrop, named after former university President Cyrus Northrop, reopened in 2014 after a complete revitalization with a renewed focus on being a home for U of M students.

Last season the Gophers defeated Rider in a dual that saw the Gophers get three pins on their opponents en route to a 32-12 victory.

This year the Gophers are ranked ninth in the country with seven wrestlers ranked across the ten weight classes. They boast the No. 2 ranked heavyweight, Gable Steveson, an undefeated freshman who wrestled at nearby Apple Valley high school.

Takedown Northrop tickets are on sale to the public at 10:00 am on Thursday, December 6.

Check out Gopher Wrestling at gophersports.com and on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

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