Wrestling is thriving west of the Twin Cities, and the Tonka Youth Wrestling program exemplifies that.  After a post-COVID reboot in 2022 with just five wrestlers, the program has grown exponentially, reaching 90 participants this year.  Tonka Youth Wrestling’s rapid growth is a testament to the hard work and passion of the athletes, coaches, and parents involved. Coach Lonnie Welsh emphasizes the critical role that the MN/USA Wrestling Grant played in revitalizing the program:

"You don't know how much this means to the wrestlers and specifically our program. Without the MN/USA Wrestling grant, we would not have been able to advertise and grow this fast. Word is spreading, and some great things are happening out west of the Twin Cities."

The grant allowed the program to jumpstart its efforts, advertise locally, and create a wrestling community that inspires young athletes and their families. One of the program’s brightest stars is 8-year-old Daniel Rogozin, a second grader who competes in the 70 lb weight class.  Daniel is guided by coaches Lonnie Welsh and Ryan LeBeau, who are building a culture of hard work, community, and success.

Q&A With Daniel Rogozin

Q: What do you love most about wrestling?
A: "I have made a lot of good friends out of it!"

Q: What is your best move or technique?
A: "Sprawl."

Q: Share a memorable match or moment you’ve had in wrestling.
A: "My first tournament and my first match (Prior Lake), I got second place!"

Q: What’s something you’re currently working on to improve as a wrestler?
A: "Cradles and keeping track of the points when I wrestle in a live match."

Q: Who is your biggest fan?
A: "My dad and my mom."

Q: Do you have siblings who wrestle or support you in other ways?
A: "I have a younger brother, Dennis, who is 5 years old and just started learning how to wrestle."

Q: If you could choose any superpower to help you wrestle, what would it be?
A: "Strength, probably like Hulk."

Q: What’s your favorite food to eat after a wrestling meet?
A: "Burrito or Chili."

Q: If you could wrestle for any college team, who would you choose?
A: "University of Minnesota."

Q: Would you rather win a Division I National Title or an Olympic Medal?
A: "Olympic Medal."

Q: What do you want to accomplish this year in wrestling?
A: "Winning first place in a tournament."

Q: What advice would you give to someone thinking about trying wrestling?
A: "It’s a good sport, give it a shot and don’t give up!"

A Coach’s Perspective

Head Coach Lonnie Welsh shared his admiration for Daniel:
"At the end of every practice, he takes the time to thank the coaches and each wrestler he trained with—a testament to the mindset he brings to the mat. He is not only one of the most technically skilled wrestlers in the program but also tougher than he realizes. We are incredibly excited to watch him continue to grow, celebrate his successes, and see him develop into an exceptional human being. He is supported by amazing parents who are dedicated to ensuring he has a positive experience and captures the valuable life lessons through the sport."

Join the Movement

Tonka Wrestling is more than just a program—it’s a community. Young athletes like Daniel Rogozin exemplify the values of hard work, friendship, and resilience, making it clear that the future of wrestling in Minnetonka is brighter than ever.

Minnesota/USA Wrestling is proud to support grassroots efforts like Tonka Youth Wrestling. Stay connected with us to follow the stories of athletes like Daniel and programs that are building the future of wrestling across the state. #mnusawrestling #mnstorm

_______________________________________________________

Your Path to Success Starts with MN/USA Wrestling!