Three-time defending state champion Cole Waunnicke of Ithica, Wis., has signed a national letter of intent to attend Wisconsin and join the Badger wrestling team next season, head coach Barry Davis announced today.

Waunnicke, who competes at 135 pounds, is ranked fourth nationally by Amateur Wrestling News and is undefeated in the state of Wisconsin during his high school career.

“Cole is the type of kid we’re looking for,” Davis said. “There are two things he brings to our program. First, he has a strong work ethic, and second, he’s very strong in the area of academics. Those two qualities fit the mold of the kind of athlete we look for at Wisconsin.”

“Cole will fit well into our program,” Davis continued. “He comes here knowing what it takes to win, and he has the same goals for his collegiate career as he has in high school: wanting to be the best in the nation.”

The 23rd-ranked Wisconsin wrestling team begins dual competition on the road this weekend, visiting Minnesota State, Mankato on Saturday before taking on No. 6 Iowa State on Sunday.