Yaraslau Slavikouski was one of the big additions for Rutgers wrestling out of the transfer portal. The former Harvard heavyweight gives the Scarlet Knights a truly elite caliber grappler.
In three years at Harvard, Slavikouski held a record of 64-15 and twice qualified for the NCAA Tournament at 285 pounds. At Harvard, he was the team captain in 2022.
He committed to Rutgers on April 7.
In speaking to ScarletKnights.com, Slavikouski outlined what stood out to him about Rutgers and why the heavyweight ended up committing to the program.
“All the coaches here are great to me in terms of recruiting, talking, and explaining what the program was about. That was the biggest factor in my decision process,” Slavikouski said in the interview with ScarletKnights.com.
“You’re surrounded by people who have been there, who have done that. Who have achieved great things in wrestling. The general expectations for the team is a lot higher. The standard is a lot higher so you’re surrounded by people who are pushing you who also are working harder. I’m excited to spend this time here at Rutgers.”
Slavikouski said that his older brother introduced him to wrestling.
Last season, Slavikouski was one win away in the NCAA Tournament from All-American.status.
He is a member of the Belarus national team. In describing himself, Slavikouski said that despite his size he is light on his feet and quick.
“The ultimate goal is always to be the champions, always to win the matches,” Slavikouski said. “That’s what pushes me forward.”
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