Notre Dame’s Ethan Jackson signs wrestling letter of intent

Ethan Jackson poses with his family and coaches after signing his letter of intent to wrestle at the collegiate level with Missouri Valley College.

Clay Herrell ~ cherrell@semoball.com

Notre Dame senior wrestler Ethan Jackson has signed his letter of intent to wrestle at Missouri Valley College in Marshall, Missouri.

Jackson was excited about wrestling at the next level following the signing on Monday afternoon.

“It’s definitely been a goal of mine for a long, long time,” Jackson said. “It’s something I’ve dreamed of since starting the sport.”

The environment of Missouri Valley College is what stood out to Jackson the most.

“It’s very uplifting and supportive,” Jackson said. “They’re going to do the best they can to help you succeed.”

Jackson said he wrestled with the decision to sign before or after the season but ultimately felt getting it done prior would be the best for him.

“It relieves the stress of having to worry about people watching me and seeing what I do this year,” Jackson said. “I just have a clean slate going into this season.”

For Jackson, the recruiting process was exciting but also stressful.

“The college coaches seemed genuinely interested and cared,” Jackson said. “They care about you and how you turn out.”

Heading into the 2022-23 season Jackson has goals set for himself and the team.

“I want to go to state,” Jackson said. “I want to medal at state or win state. I also want to hit my 100 wins. I’m in the mid-60s right now, so I’m on pace to hit it.”

Jackson and the Bulldogs begin the season at 5 p.m. Nov. 29 with the Notre Dame Quad at Notre Dame Regional High School.