The Apprentice School

2021-22: National Runner-Up.  In his third National Championships, Russ advanced to the finals before falling to the 3X defending champion. Avenged a previous loss to the returning runner-up in the semi-finals.  Apprentice Athlete of the Week once. MAC Runner-Up. 14-5 season record, including 9 pins. 

2019-20: Advanced to blood-round at NCWA National Championships, one win shy of All-American honors before Apprentice withdrew from the tournament due to COVID-19 concerns.  Only loss at National Tournament was to the #2 seed.  Defeated eventual 4th place finisher in his second bout.  USCAA runner-up. 

2018-19: ALL AMERICAN.  After starting mid-season at the completion of football, Russ became the first 235 lb All-American for the Builders in 14 years, placing 5^th at the NCWA National Championships, with a 6-2 record.  His only losses were to the same opponent who placed 3^rd.   19-9 season record.  His 15 of 19 wins by pin was the highest rate on the team.  Was not pinned all season.   Builder Invitational 4^th.  USCAA Runner-Up.  MAC 3^rd.