The positives serve as a reminder heading into the 2021-22 University of Northern Iowa wrestling campaign.

The negatives are the motivation.

Teske and Lara, both multi-time state champions at Fort Dodge Senior High, will be joined by fellow former Dodger all-stater Cayd Lara in the Panthers’ lineup as the team travels to South Dakota State this Sunday.

Teske and Lara became Fort Dodge’s first Div. I national participants in 20 years last March in St. Louis. The former Dodgers weren’t satisfied with just being there, though, as Teske reached the quarterfinals and Lara prevailed in the opening round.

Photo by Mark Lundy/UNI Athletics: Ex-Dodger champion Triston Lara of Nothern Iowa works on a headlock during the NCAA Championships last season in St. Louis.

Both were dealt painful setbacks that left them wanting more during the dark, quiet moments of reflection in the spring and summer months.

“I needed (the adversity),” said Teske, a 125-pounder who went 14-3 last season and secured the first Big 12 title for a Fort Dodge Senior High graduate in over 40 years. “(Coming up one win shy of All-American status) is fuel for sure, but it always comes down to looking at yourself in the mirror and not being satisfied.

“This isn’t an easy journey and it must be respected. I was humbled to a level that I hadn’t been before. It was time to get real with myself and dig for a deeper reason why.”

Lara knocked off the No. 10 seed in his NCAA opener at 149 pounds last season. He lost 9-8 to the seventh seed before being ousted on the backside.

Lara was only 7-8 a year ago, but all eight losses were by decision — including six by three points or less.

Photo by Mark Lundy/UNI Athletics: Former FDSH all-stater Cayd Lara looks at the coaches during a dual against Oklahoma State.

“I’m fired up and ready to go,” Lara said. “I had a great offseason and got better in a lot of positions. My confidence is as high as it’s ever been.

“I know I belong among the best guys in the country, so I’m excited to get out there and compete with them. Detroit 2022 NCAA All-American (the tournament location this coming March) is my plan. We have a great team and return a lot of guys. It’s going to be a fun year and I’m excited to get back out there.”

Cayd Lara is the wildcard. The Panthers’ 157-pounder and Triston’s younger brother struggled to stay healthy in 2020-21 — a trend that has plagued him throughout his collegiate career. But the former Dodger state runner-up and 2018 FDSH graduate is in the best physical and mental shape he’s experienced to date.

“I’m excited to get out and compete,” Cayd said. “I put so much pressure on myself last year. With not being able to wrestle for so long and just not feeling like myself, (the return to normalcy and experience) will make it that much better this year.

“I’ve learned so much about myself and the fight it takes at this level to win. I’ve been banged up a little (in the preseason), but it’s time to get the ball rolling. We have our whole team returning, so group-wise, it’s going to be an awesome year. The main goal, as it should be, is to make the NCAA Tournament in Detroit. I’m really just trying to let the fur fly every time I’m on the mat.”

Teske added he’s “on the hunt for who I still have not yet become.”

“I am excited to go out and entertain,” Teske said. “Thanks to all who follow my journey. Big shout-out to my family, coaches and the day ones.”

Triston Lara also gave a nod to his Fort Dodge roots as his story with the Panthers continues to develop.

“As always, I appreciate the support from Fort Dodge,” Triston said. “Family, friends, and the community always keep me going. I love Fort Dodge, and it’s a great feeling to go out there knowing I have their support win, lose or draw.

“I know they are always there for me. Now it’s time for me to bring a All-American plaque back home.”