The project that John Carroll wrestling head coach Kerry Volkmann has long wished for is weeks away from becoming a reality.

With the principal work on the new John Carroll wrestling practice room nearing completion and the facility itself scheduled for a September 2009 opening, Volkmann is elated that the project he first envisioned back in 1992 is taking shape before his very eyes.

"What I thought was unimaginable is now quite possible," said Volkmann of the $400,000 renovation of a space formerly known as the gym annex which sits just above the DeCarlo Varsity Center. "There were a great many wrestlers who have remained close to our program at John Carroll that realized what the needs were with regard to a proper training facility. It is something we have talked about for so long. When the green light was given, it was not surprising that a number of people stepped up and got the ball rolling for us. We are close to matching our donor goal, and I am hopeful we can get there."

The plans for the room include a raised platform for cardiovascular training -- something Volkmann has longed for during his 23 years at the helm.

"To be able to keep the entire team in one place rather than have to divide up solves so many logistical issues for us as a staff," said Volkmann. "The design of this room is very much cutting edge as well. It will be a significant step for us in both retention and recruitment."

The John Carroll wrestling program has been among the most successful programs at the school. Between the Presidents' and Ohio Athletic Conference, the Blue Streaks have won 33 league titles since the inception of intercollegiate wrestling competition in 1964. The 1975 team captured the school's lone team national championship, while 15 individuals have won national titles and over 100 wrestlers have earned Division III All-American status.