Libby Greenchain wrestler Garret Chapel, the defending state champion at 170 pounds, has signed a letter of intent to wrestle for the University of Great Falls next year.

Chapel, who was also named to the All-Conference first team in football, will receive an $11,000 annual scholarship to wrestle. Coach Caleb Schaeffer praised Chapel in his announcement, “We are super excited to add an upper-weight wrestler that is as talented as Garret. He just knows how to win.”

Chapel is also excited to be wrestling for Great Falls. “I flirted around with some other options,” he said, “but UGF was always my first choice.”

Chapel said he wanted to stay in Montana and he has always been impressed with the program at Great Falls.

He first became aware of the program while working with former coach Jason Harrington, who also wrestled at Great Falls. Chapel has attended training camps with Schaeffer and has always respected the program.

Chapel said he is excited for the challenges he’ll face moving up to the collegiate level. “I like how much harder the practices will be and how much I’ll have to step it up to work my way to the top.”

He advised younger wrestlers to work hard and stay focused. “It’s easy to quit when you’re losing. Don’t. Do extra work, lift over the summer. Do extra tournaments. Work pays off.”

Chapel said he is looking forward to this season, even though he expects to have a target on his back as defending state champion. “I’m going to go out there and show that winning state wasn’t an accident. I’m going to enjoy it.”