Archives 2005

Terri McNutt: a vital cog in ’Stangs wrestling
McNutt exemplary figure on the mat and in the classroom
A TOUGH MCNUTT TO CRACK, INDEED.
Western’s wrestling star Terri McNutt (right)exhibits excellence on the mat, and also shows an affinity for cracking the books.
By Jesse Silvertown and David Steinhauer
Western Gazette http://www.gazette.uwo.ca/article.cfm?section=Sports&articleID=500&month=12&day=2&year=2005
Although probably not the most well-known athlete on campus, Western’s most successful student athlete may very well be wrestler Terri McNutt.
Already a three-time defending Ontario University Athletics champion and co-captain of the sixth-ranked Mustangs, McNutt has received considerable national attention. But what is most impressive about the fifth-year graduate student is the balance she has maintained between wrestling and academics.
“Both are equally important to me,” says McNutt, who started wrestling in Grade 9. Back then, Terri had no idea where her wrestling career would take her. But when it came time to choose a university, wrestling was the deciding factor.
So far, under the tutelage of coach Ray Takahashi, McNutt’s wrestling career has blossomed. Winning the OUA championship three times and attending a Team Canada Olympic training camp are testament to her skill.
In addition to her personal achievements, McNutt has been a valuable teammate. As a co-captain for the past three seasons, Terri understands her responsibility as a role model to younger wrestlers.
“She has really great leadership qualities,” says first-year standout Kirby Steinhoff. “She really supports the younger wrestlers.”
One way Terri leads by example is through her tremendous work ethic, a leadership skill she has developed from being a captain.
Coach Takahashi acknowledges Terri’s impact on the team.
“I’d like to think that a big part of captaincy is the display of certain behaviours and actions,” Takahashi says. “There’s no doubt Terri’s a performer and a competitor. She’s one of the best we’ve ever had. She’ll always be at practice and if she isn’t, it’s because of school.
“I believe the team knows her commitment to wrestling and she leads by example.”
But it hasn’t been all roses on the wrestling mat for McNutt and the Mustangs. The University of Brock Badgers have carved a dynasty — successfully defending their OUA women’s league championship eight years in a row.
Currently, the Canadian women’s wrestling rankings have Brock at number three and Western ranked sixth. Terri, however, tries to ignore polls and rankings.
“I just focus on my wrestling,” McNutt says.
Despite the large amount of attention she gives wrestling, she doesn’t neglect academics.
“She’s been a model student-athlete,” Takahashi says.
In fact, Terri often puts school ahead of wrestling, which is surprising considering how much success she’s enjoyed on the mat.
Earlier this year, McNutt was forced to miss the Toronto Open wrestling tournament to catch up on school work. Fortunately, coach Takahashi is very understanding,
Occasionally. the five-time OUA Coach of the Year practices individually with McNutt because team practices often conflict with her school schedule.
“It’s good because we’re the same size,” jokes McNutt.
Her future is promising. She was recently invited to a wrestling training camp in San Diego, and will attend this January. Various countries, including the world-renowned Japanese female wrestling squad, will be represented.
“I hope to get noticed internationally [in this tournament],” McNutt said.
McNutt’s goal is to one day represent Canada in the Olympics, and although the future is uncertain, she is confident her years at Western have prepared her for what lies ahead.