MAN WITH A MULLET ON A MISSION: 2009 World silver medalist Jake Herbert has a new hairstyle and a renewed mission this year after capturing a U.S. Open title in freestyle wrestling.
John Sachs and Tony Rotundo photos
Jake Herbert By Craig Sesker
LAS VEGAS – Jake Herbert was done. When Herbert walked off the mat after his final match at the 2012 Olympic Games in London, England, he figured his com- petitive career was over.
Even though Herbert fell short of his goals with a seventh- place finish in London, it didn’t change his decision. The two-time NCAA champion, Hodge Trophy winner, World silver medalist and Northwestern graduate was ready for the next phase of his life.
He planned to move to New York City and go to work for Mike Novogratz, a highly successful businessman and major wrestling supporter.
But then Herbert was awakened by a phone call early on the morning of Feb. 12, 2013. He heard the jolting news that the International Olympic Committee had just recommended that wrestling be removed from the Olympic Games program. Like many in the wrestling world, Herbert experienced an assortment of emotions – shock, sadness, anger and frustration – that day.
But there was still hope for wrestling. Herbert changed his plan and instead went to work full-time to help save wrestling. He made appearances, wrote letters, raised money, signed petitions and worked closely with the Committee for the
6 USA Wrestler
Preservation of Olympic Wrestling. He called USA Wrestling’s national offices in Colorado Springs frequently and asked what he could do to help. While working passionately to save the sport he had dedicat- ed his entire life to, Herbert came to a realization. He wanted to keep competing. The IOC came to its senses that September and voted to keep wrestling on the Olympic program, and Herbert made a decision to make a comeback. That decision is paying off now.
The No. 10 pre-seed at 86 kg/189 lbs., Herbert delivered an emphatic message that he is back by winning the U.S. Open on May 9 in Las Vegas.
“My plan was very simple,” the charismatic Herbert said, flashing a smile. “Score more points, get pins and get my hand raised. Attack them before they attack me.” The 30-year-old Herbert knocked off 2014 World Team mem- ber Ed Ruth and 2013 World Team member Keith Gavin en route to earning the U.S. Open championship. Herbert’s win in Vegas moved him within two wins of making his third World Team, but first since 2010. His Open title advanced him to the finals of June’s U.S. World Team Trials in Madison, Wis.
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