The Grand Canyon University wrestling team today announced the signings of Jordan Johnson and Bobby Ward for the 2011-12 season.
Johnson comes to GCU after wrestling for Division I University of Iowa. He went 14-3 in 2009-10 and won the Wisconsin Open title, while placing second at the Grand View Open. Johnson, a high school state champion in Illinois, was a two-time place winner at the Asics University National Championships.
“Jordan has been a part of the biggest wrestling program in the nation at the University of Iowa for the past four years. He has one year of eligibility remaining and we are looking to make the most of that last year here at GCU,” said head coach R.C. Lahaye. “Jordan has beaten several of the top heavyweights in Division I over the past three seasons and we feel he can come in and be an instant contender for a national title in the heavyweight division. We are looking for him to be the anchor of our lineup this year as we pursue a team title.”
Ward is also a Division I transfer, coming to GCU from NC State. While wrestling for the Wolfpack, Ward was a NCAA National Qualifier and placed third at the Atlantic Coast Conference Championships in 2010. He also was a NJCAA National Runner-up for Nassau Community College.
“Bobby is very talented and was the team leader in wins while at NC State in 2010,” said LaHaye. “He qualified for the Division I national tournament and can fill a hole for us at 149. Bobby has the potential to compete with the very best and will make a huge impact at GCU for the next two years.”
Johnson and Ward join Chayse Jackson, Steven Knoblauch, David Makara, Kyle McCrite, Andy Rico and Brett Sanchez, who earlier signed with GCU.
“From top to bottom this recruiting class will take our program to the next level as we have several blue chip high school recruits, combined with some instant impact transfers that will fuel our program for years to come,” said LaHaye. “The future for GCU Wrestling looks very bright.”
