Minnesota/USA Wrestling is excited to highlight Daniel Folger, an 11-year-old wrestler from Rockford, MN, as part of our Spotlight Athlete Showcase. Competing in the 67 lb weight class, Daniel represents Rockford Wrestling Club and No Nonsense Wrestling, training under Coach Jon, Coach Todd, and Coach Jake. His dedication to hard work, constant improvement, and passion for the sport make him a rising star in Minnesota wrestling.

Getting to Know Daniel Folger

What do you love most about wrestling?
Daniel: I like seeing how much I’ve grown from the beginning of the season to the end of the season.

What is your best move or technique?
Daniel: Double leg takedown or a two-on-one tilt.

Share a memorable match or moment you’ve had in wrestling.
Daniel: Winning the LAW Duels with No Nonsense Wrestling this year.

What’s something you’re currently working on to improve as a wrestler?
Daniel: My goal each season is to get stronger physically and mentally.

Beyond the Mat

Who is your biggest fan?
Daniel: My mom and dad.

Do you have brothers or sisters who wrestle or support you in other ways?
Daniel: Yes, my older brother wrestles too.

If you could choose any superpower to help you wrestle, what would it be?
Daniel: Super strength—I feel like that could be really useful on the mat.

What’s your favorite food to eat after a wrestling meet?
Daniel: Raising Cane’s chicken.

Do you have a good luck item you bring to meets?
Daniel: No good luck items for me! I feel like hard work is more important than luck.

What’s your favorite video game or movie?
Daniel: Minions 4.

If you could wrestle for any college team, who would you choose?
Daniel: The U of M! Go Gophers!

Would you rather win a Division I national title or an Olympic medal?
Daniel: I would love to win an Olympic medal. The whole Olympic experience would be awesome!

Looking Ahead

What do you want to accomplish this year in wrestling?
Daniel: I’ve been really focused on showing up and giving it my all at every practice, even when I don’t feel like going—because I know that’s how I’m going to improve.

What advice would you give to someone thinking about trying wrestling?
Daniel: If someone was new to the sport, I would tell them don’t give up. A lot of kids try it and find out it’s hard. But if you stick with it, you’ll make friends, get better, and start to love wrestling.

Coach’s Perspective

Coach Jon Wawra shared his thoughts on Daniel’s growth and potential:
"Daniel is a special kid. He shows up to practice with a good attitude, always tries his best, and leaves it all out on the mat. It’s been fun to watch him excel over the years. I’m proud of him as an athlete because he learns from mistakes and uses each match as an opportunity to improve. He’s definitely someone you’ll want to keep an eye on in the years ahead—this is just the beginning."

A Bright Future Ahead

Daniel’s commitment to continuous improvement, hard work, and perseverance makes him a true competitor and role model for young wrestlers across Minnesota. As he sets his sights on new challenges, there’s no doubt that he’ll continue to make an impact in the sport. #mnusawrstling #mnstorm