ROCK SPRINGS — Another legendary Mustang wrestler is making his way to the next level of collegiate competition.

Western Wyoming Community College (Western) Sophomore Anthony Herrera signed his letter of intent to join the St. Cloud State University (SCSU) wrestling team on December 4. Hererra is one of two sophomores on the team who have plans to wrestle at the next level.

Over a year ago, Herrera wrestled in a dual against top-ranked Division II school Chadron State. Herrera’s opponent was ranked eighth best in Division II and he shocked everyone who watched the match as the two wrestled into a third overtime before Herrera was defeated.

The match was broadcasted on the NCAA’s website and SCSU Head Coach Steve Costanzo happened to be watching Herrera’s impressive effort. By the time the Mustangs were back home, Costanzo had reached out to WWCC Head Coach Art Castillo through text, inquiring about Herrera. Although Costanzo didn’t reach out personally to Herrera, he knew it was where he wanted to go once he finished his time at Western.

Back in September, Castillo asked Herrera what his plans were and where he wanted to go to school. Immediately, he said his top school was SCSU. Castillo texted Costanzo and within 30 seconds, a reply came back ready to grant a scholarship to Herrera.

“Within six hours, I was committed,” Herrera said. “Coach Costanzo got ahold of me, we talked. I talked with my family for about thirty minutes to let them know what was going on, and then I called him back two hours later and told him I was ready to sign.”

“I knew I didn’t want to do anything else, so it was an easy decision to make.”

Anthony Herrera

Herrera joins a successful SCSU team which has cemented itself as the best Division II wrestling program in the nation, winning four national titles in the last five years. In addition, he continues a legacy of Costanzo disciples, as both his high school coach and Castillo both wrestled under Costanzo in college.

Becoming a Man

With many unforgettable memories made at Western, and more to make with his final season in black and red, Herrera said his time as a Mustang has changed his life.

“Before we come here, we’re kind of young and immature, not really ready for life yet,” Herrera said. “I think going through this program for three years really changed me in a whole lot of aspects. Coach Art really changed me as a man.”

Academically, Herrera feels he is at the top of his game. Before attending Western, academics were not a strong point. But since going through Castillo’s program, he has noticed a big difference. On the mat, he has also achieved more than he ever thought possible.

Herrera said his favorite memory as a Mustang was getting to compete in the 2019-20 NJCAA Wrestling Championships in Council Bluffs, Iowa. While there, he earned status as an All-American, assisted in a team academic title and cheered on his teammate Tucker Tomlinson who won a national title.

“Being able to experience that in the flesh rather than just watching was definitely my favorite memory overall,” Herrera said.

High standards and high goals remain a priority for Herrera as he prepares for the upcoming season and future at SCSU. Due to COVID-19, the NJCAA has written off a free year of eligibility, meaning he will be able to wrestle three more years and potentially be crowned a national champion the next four years: one with the Mustangs, and three with SCSU.

“I’m just going to carry on my same goals on over to St. Cloud,” Herrera said. “I want to get good grades and graduate with my bachelor’s degree, but most of all I want to win a national title and team national title. I’m excited for the new experience.”

Herrera said that none of this would have been possible without his teammates, coaches, family and friends who have supported him and believed in his ability. He is also grateful for SCSU giving him an opportunity to compete and grow as a person.