The Wrestleheads were officially created during the 2004-2005 Wrestling Season. It was created as an effort between Coach Mark Johnson, Director of Marketing Dave Johnson, and the Illini Pride Wrestling Chairs, Ankit Patel and Barry Steinberg. Before its official creation, wrestling at the University of Illinois has had some tremendous support from the student body, the community, alumni, and Illini Pride. By uniting the Illini Pride contingency, the goal of the Wrestleheads initially was to create a stronger Illini Pride fan base and to cause havoc for the Fighting Illini’s opposition by leading cheers for all of Huff Hall.

The first year of the Wrestleheads was a tremendous success. In fact, the first match of its existence, which was also deemed Orange Krush Night at Huff Hall, the Wrestleheads helped shatter an all time attendance record with a total attendance of 3,573 fans and helped the Illini dominate the Hawkeyes 25-7. As the Fighting Illini Wrestling Team continued to handily beat other Big Ten home opponents, such as Penn State, Indiana, and Northwestern on its way to another Big Ten Title, the Wrestleheads continued to come out and have a good time. In its initial year, the Wrestleheads received free t-shirts, cash prizes, grilled out despite the cold, and, even received and wore wrestling headgear.

The 2011-2012 Wrestlehads have an exciting year planned with promotions and giveaways for all of their members. Finally, we hope everyone has a good time, and hope for the continued success for Fightin’ Illini Wrestling!