One of Swift Current’s most accomplished athletes has decided where her career will continue after high school.
Aleah Nickel announced on Sunday that she will join the University of Alberta Pandas wrestling team in 2019-2020.
The Golden Bears and Pandas wrestling team is led by head coach Owen Dawkins, who has coached the teams since 2009. During his tenure, the Golden Bears and Pandas have won nine Canada West Championships, including both mens and womens titles in 2013, 2014, and 2018. He also led the Pandas to their first U Sports title in 2011 and the Golden Bears to their third title in 2013.
The Pandas are currently ranked sixth amongst all U Sports female wrestling teams.
Nickel won her first high school provincial title last season, a Saskatchewan Amateur Wrestling Association provincial championship, and a national title and a Cadet Championship all in 2018. She has represented her country overseas on multiple occasions.
The grade 12 student is currently competing in her final season with the Swift Current Comp. Ardens wrestling team. She was in Edmonton over the weekend for a high school tournament and won all four matches to win gold in her 18-athlete division.
