The talented senior will join the Grand View University women’s wrestling squad as well as the women’s golf team after signing a letter of intent recently at Erie High School. The University is located in Des Moines and competes at the NAIA level as a member of the Heart of America Conference.
Naftzger, a four time state finalist and two time medalist in wrestling concluded her high school career with a 35-6 senior season record and a 128-48 career mark. She also helped lead the Lady Panther golf team to an outstanding season last fall with several tournament wins and an undefeated conference season. Naftzger was a three-time IHSA Sectional qualifier, three-time All-Conference honoree, and finished second to teammate Izzy Johnston at the Three Rivers Conference meet last fall.
EP Lady Panther wrestling coach Thad Jacobs had high praise for his 135 pounder. “Michelle is what most people would refer to as a blueprint athlete. She’s extremely talented but she works extremely hard day in and day out. She’s improved not only her wrestling but her leadership and academic skills. Michelle was a three-time team captain, a four-time state qualifier and a two-time state medalist. Her accomplishments speak for themselves but she is an even greater person and role model. All these attributes are why every coach at EP knows her skills and work ethic will translate to her collegiate wrestling career and after college career.”
After visiting several college and university campuses, Naftzger felt Grand View was the best fit. ‘It’s not too far away and they have a great program. They are intense and that’s what I like. I want to have teammates that are super committed.” This past season the Vikings finished third at the NAIA National Finals with eight All-Americans.
After deciding on Grand View she reached out to the golf coach and received an invitation to join the team. Nafteger said her focus will definitely be on wrestling with the golf season wrapping around the wrestling season with fall and spring competition.
Naftzger hopes to become an Orthopedic Nurse Practitioner. “I want to be able to be involved with athletes and help them get back to their sport.”
Michelle is the daughter of Keith and Tina Nafzger of Albany. She is a member and current president of the National Honor Society, an Illinois State Scholar, and class Salutatorian.
