"TJ brings a plethora of wisdom, energy, and passion to our program," Ruff said. "He comes from an amazing wrestling family that shares the same values we covet at Lindsey Wilson."
Ruschell comes to the Blue Raiders from the University of Wisconsin-Madison where he competed for four years as a student-athlete on the mat for the Badgers. He compiled a 54-52 overall record competing at the 149 and 157-pound weight classes, earning an at-large bid to the NCAA National Championships his senior season. Ruschell was a three-time Academic All-Big Ten honoree and a National Wrestling Coaches Association (NWCA) Academic All-American in 2017.
"My two brothers and father are all coaches at the college, high school and middle school level, so I knew coaching was always an avenue I wanted to pursue and this is a great opportunity to do so," Ruschell said.
"I really enjoyed my time as a student-athlete and spending time with my teammates and becoming part of a family," Ruschell said. "I'm excited to get on the mat with the guys and develop those special bonds while at the same time help them to accomplish their goals."
Ruschell has also served as a wrestling camp clinician since 2012 and participated in multiple community service and volunteer projects through the Wisconsin Athletic Department during his time as a student-athlete.
A native of Crittenden, Kentucky, Ruschell attended Ryle High School where he compiled a 209-21 career record and was a four-time state placer and four-time regional champion, winning a state championship his junior season.
"Obviously he has had some outstanding mentors along his journey, and we are ecstatic to give him a platform to establish his own identity in the coaching ranks," Ruff said. "He's an absolute perfect fit for our program and members of our team are lucky to have him in their corner."
Ruschell graduated from Wisconsin with a bachelor of science in economics in 2016 and is currently pursuing his master's in educational leadership and policy analysis.
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