Matside Minnesota

Chris Etzler and Derek Holst
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  • WRESTLING

Matside Minnesota Podcast is your weekly front-row seat to high school wrestling across central and northern Minnesota. Co-hosts Chris Etzler and Derek Holst deliver in-depth recaps, exclusive interviews with coaches, athletes, fans, and officials, and insider commentary that dives into the stories, triumphs, and grit behind every takedown.

Episodes

  1. 3D AGO

    Episode 9: Weekly Recap, Rick Lee Duals

    In Episode 9 we recap the biggest events across the region with a focus on the Rick Lee tournaments in Bemidji. #MatsideMinnesota #RickLeeDuals #MNwrestling #HighSchoolWrestling Support the show

    40 min

  2. JAN 8

    Episode 8: New Year, Big Tournaments — Clash & Rumble Recap

    In Episode 8 we keep it simple and get straight to the action. With no guests this week, we recap the biggest New Year wrestling events across the region, The Clash in La Crosse and Rumble on the Red in Fargo. #MatsideMinnesota #TheClash #RumbleOnTheRed #MNwrestling #HighSchoolWrestling Support the show

    1h 11m

  3. JAN 2 · BONUS

    Cardinal Edition Episode 1: The Early Years of Cardinal Wrestling

    Cardinal Edition – Episode 1: The Early Years of Cardinal Wrestling Matside Minnesota – Cardinal Edition We’re kicking off the very first episode of the Cardinal Edition by going back to where it all began. We sit down with Mike Hajek, one of the foundational voices in Staples-Motley wrestling history, to revisit the early years of the Cardinal program. From the culture that shaped generations of wrestlers to the stories that still echo through the gym, this episode is full of memories, perspective, and Cardinal pride. As alumni ourselves, launching this edition feels like coming home, and there’s no better way to start than honoring the roots of a program that means so much to the community. Whether you’re a longtime fan, a former wrestler, or a parent of today’s athletes, this episode sets the tone for what the Cardinal Edition is all about: celebrating the people, stories, and legacy of Staples-Motley wrestling. #CardinalEdition #MatsideMinnesota #StaplesMotley #MNwrestling #WrestlingHistory #CardinalPride Support the show

    1h 12m

  4. JAN 1

    Episode 7: Previewing The Clash

    Episode 7: Previewing The Clash In this episode, We keep it simple and focused: The Clash is coming. Held in La Crosse, Wisconsin, this nationally recognized high school wrestling tournament features 29 teams from 11 states, including Staples-Motley, Perham, and Pierz — three programs close to home. With 4 Nationally ranked teams in the mix, it’s one of the toughest and most exciting events in the country. We’re hitting the road to watch it live, but first we break down what makes The Clash so special, what to expect from our area teams, and why this tournament is a must-watch for Minnesota wrestling fans. #MatsideMinnesota #TheClash #MNwrestling #HighSchoolWrestling #StaplesMotley #Perham #Pierz  Support the show

    53 min

  5. 12/25/2025

    Episode 6: Northwoods Wrestling on the Rise

    Episode 6: Northwoods Wrestling on the Rise    This Christmas Day episode is packed with stories, highlights, and a whole lot of Minnesota wrestling spirit. We kick things off by breaking down the week’s top match highlights from across Minnesota, big performances, standout duals, and the moments that caught our attention on the mats. After that we spotlight a story from Babbitt, Minnesota, where Northeast Range/Ely is building something special in what has traditionally been hockey country. Head coach Adam Hagen joins us to share how he launched the program, the challenges of starting from scratch in a remote corner of the state, and the momentum they’re building in just their second season. And in the middle of it all, we bring in a little holiday cheer with fun messages from some Staples-Motley wrestlers. Whether you're celebrating with family, traveling to a holiday tournament, or just relaxing at home, we hope this episode brings you a smile and keeps you connected to the wrestling community we all love. 🎄 Merry Christmas from Matside Minnesota!  Thanks for listening, supporting, and being part of this growing statewide wrestling family. #MatsideMinnesota #NorthwoodsWrestling #MNwrestling #HighSchoolWrestling #ChristmasEpisode #WrestlingCommunity #NortheastRange #Ely Support the show

    1h 19m

  6. 12/18/2025

    Episode 5: 3 For the Takedown

    Episode 5: 3 For the Takedown In this episode, Chris Etzler and Derek Holst kick things off with a quick recap of last week’s key matches across Minnesota wrestling before diving into one of the biggest topics from last season — the rules changes. We’re joined by Colbe Tappe, Colby Marich, and Jim Lynch for an in‑depth discussion on how the new scoring, including the 3‑point takedown, near fall points change, and out of bounds definition has impacted competition, strategy, and the overall flow of matches. Whether you’re a coach, wrestler, or fan, this episode breaks down what these changes mean for the sport and how they’re shaping the future of high school wrestling. #MatsideMinnesota #HighSchoolWrestling #MNwrestling #RulesChanges #3ForTheTakedown Support the show

    1h 27m

  7. 12/11/2025

    Episode 4: Coach Pickar, Ariana, and the Week in Wrestling

    Episode 4 — Weekly Recap + Brainerd’s New Coach This week on Matside Minnesota, Chris and Derek kick things off with a recap of last week’s biggest matches, breaking down key results and storylines across Minnesota wrestling. Then we welcome Andy Pickar, the new Head Coach at Brainerd High School. Coach Pickar shares his vision for the Warriors program, his approach to building culture, and what excites him most about leading the team. 🎉 A fun highlight: Coach Pickar’s daughter Ariana joins the conversation! Ariana is currently ranked individually in Minnesota, and the Brainerd Warrior girls team also holds a state ranking — making this a true family wrestling moment. Subscribe for weekly episodes featuring coaches, athletes, officials, and stories from across Minnesota wrestling. #MatsideMinnesota #HighSchoolWrestling #MNwrestling #BrainerdWarriors #CoachSpotlight Support the show

    1h 23m

  8. 12/04/2025

    Behind the Rankings + Wrestlers to Watch

    This week on Matside Minnesota, we bring you a double feature. First, Chris and Derek share their season overview, highlighting area wrestlers to watch and storylines that will shape the 2024–25 season across central and northern Minnesota. Then, we sit down with Lynn Jennissen, Class AA ratings editor for The Guillotine, Minnesota’s wrestling newspaper. Lynn takes us behind the scenes of his process for evaluating wrestlers across all 13 weight classes and building the Top 10 rankings — a task that blends data, match results, and plenty of judgment calls. Support the show

    1h 4m

  9. 11/27/2025

    New Coach Spotlight 1

    We sit down with two new head coaches to hear how they’re building programs, connecting with their communities, and preparing athletes for the season. Jamey Koetter (Holdingford) and Tate Card (Minnewaska) share coaching philosophies, early priorities, and the small decisions that shape a team’s culture. Support the show

    58 min

  10. 11/20/2025

    A New Mat Rolls Out in Pillager

    In the heart of Minnesota, a new wrestling program is taking shape, bringing excitement and opportunity to young athletes. The inaugural episode of the Matside Minnesota podcast dives deep into the journey of Pillager High School as it rolls out its first varsity wrestling program in 46 years, showcasing the passion and dedication of its coaches and community. The Matside Minnesota podcast, hosted by wrestling enthusiasts Chris Etzler and Derek Holst, aims to spotlight high school wrestling across central and northern Minnesota. Each week, they provide match recaps, interviews, and insightful stories that celebrate the athletes, coaches, and communities that enrich this beloved sport. The podcast promises to be a platform for interaction, inviting listeners to share their own wrestling stories and experiences. Pillager High School has a rich history of co-op wrestling, previously joining forces with Brainerd and Little Falls. However, this year marks a significant milestone as the school launches its own varsity program. Chris and Derek sit down with Ben Horn, the new head wrestling coach, and Matt Moen, the activities director, to discuss the challenges and triumphs of building a program from the ground up. Starting a new wrestling program requires careful planning and dedication. Coach Horn and AD Moen emphasize the importance of grassroots initiatives, focusing on youth engagement to create a sustainable pipeline of talent. They recount the process of recruiting athletes, securing funding, and establishing a culture that fosters growth and competitiveness. They also highlight the community's support, which has been instrumental in getting the program off the ground. One of the significant hurdles in launching the program was navigating the requirements set by the Minnesota State High School League. AD Moen describes how the process was surprisingly straightforward, involving simple forms and communication with existing co-ops. The goal was clear: to provide opportunities for young wrestlers in Pillager, and the league was supportive of this vision. The camaraderie within the wrestling community is palpable, as both coaches and former opponents come together to support Pillager's new venture. Coach Horn shares anecdotes of mentorship from experienced coaches and the collaborative spirit that defines the wrestling culture in Minnesota. In launching its varsity wrestling program, Pillager High School is not just creating a team; it’s building a legacy that will inspire future generations of wrestlers. The dedication of Coach Horn, AD Moen, and the supportive community exemplifies the true spirit of high school athletics. As the wrestling season unfolds, all eyes will be on Pillager, eager to witness their journey. Support the show

    56 min
  • 10 Episodes

About

Matside Minnesota Podcast is your weekly front-row seat to high school wrestling across central and northern Minnesota. Co-hosts Chris Etzler and Derek Holst deliver in-depth recaps, exclusive interviews with coaches, athletes, fans, and officials, and insider commentary that dives into the stories, triumphs, and grit behind every takedown.

Information

  • Creator
    Chris Etzler and Derek Holst
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    10
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Matside Minnesota
  • Show Website
    Matside Minnesota