Jaryn Hartranft readily admits that his college wrestling career at Wilkes University has been a rapid one.

But like his high school career at Catasauqua, it also has been a successful ride.

Hartranft, a senior, recently ended his wrestling career at 157-pounds for Wilkes University. This season, Hartranft also has four top-five tournament finishes.

At Catasauqua he was a four-time District 11 Finalist, a 2020 PIAA State Qualifier, and went 39-6 as a senior.

Over the past four years, Hartranft has cherished the ride.

“As a senior, my college career is going by quickly,” said Hartranft before the season ended. “It’s definitely made me appreciate every part of the experience at Wilkes.”

Yet, he has managed to shift gears toward the college game.

“The biggest adjustment for me has been the pace and physicality of college wrestling,” noted Hartranft. “Everyone is strong, experienced, and disciplined, which has pushed me to be more intentional about recovery, preparation, and attention to detail at practice. Balancing academics with training was also an adjustment, but it’s helped me grow both on and off the mat.”

Injuries have been part of the landscape.

“Every year there is always an injury to be dealt with,” added Hartranft. “Being a college wrestler has taught me no matter what you are never going to wrestle at 100 percent. You are going to need to push through and wrestle through all kinds of injuries.”

He has appreciated his mentors on his trek.

“I’ve been fortunate to have great coaches along the way. (Wilkes head coach Jon) Coach Laudenslager has made a huge impact during my time at Wilkes with his experience, expectations, and constant belief in his athletes. He creates an environment where you’re challenged every day but also supported, which has helped me continue developing and competing with confidence. I will forever be grateful for the impact he’s had on me.

“(Catasauqua head coach Jon) Coach Reed has also played an important role in my journey, helping shape me as both a wrestler and a person, and I’m grateful for the foundation he helped build.”

Reed saw plenty of promise in him.

“I started coaching him as an assistant with Joe Russo during his youth years,” recalled Reed. “Jaryn always had that ‘it’ factor and knew he had the capability of becoming a very good wrestler. Following his college career, I know he is very close to achieving 100 wins in college, something very difficult to do.”

Hartranft finishes his stellar career in the Navy and Gold as a two-time NCAA qualifier and a 105-43 overall record. He went 1-2 in the opening day of the NCAA Championships recently.

Hartranft also has been grateful for his teammates’ support.

“My teammates have meant a lot to me as well,” said Hartranft. “Training alongside a motivated, competitive group makes practices intense and meaningful, and as a senior, I know I’m really going to miss the daily competition, the grind, and the bonds built in the wrestling room.”