Shakopee’s Joel Makem Ratzinger and Waconia’s Max McEnelly Recognized as MWCA Ms. and Mr. MN Wrestlers of the Year

The Minnesota Wrestling Coaches Association annually presents the Mr. Minnesota High School Wrestler award to the senior that best exemplifies the highest ideals of high school wrestling in Minnesota. Starting in 2022, the MWCA partnered with MN Women’s Wrestling to also recognize the Ms. Minnesota High School Wrestler award. Judging is based on past performances, citizenship, academics, leadership, and adherence to MSHSL rules. This year the committees are proud to recognize Shakopee’s two-time girls’ state champion Joel Makem Ratzinger and Waconia’s four-time boys state champion Max McEnelly.

Joel Makem Ratzinger has dominated her weight class at the MSHSL State Tournament for the last two years. She is yet to have a state tournament match that has gone the full six minutes. The six matches have ended with five falls and one tech fall. Not only is Joel a champion on the mat, but she is also a champion off the mat posting a 3.94 GPA, volunteering in the community, and being an AVID mentor at Shakopee Middle School. In the off-season, Joel runs track, is part of a dance team, the manager for the football program, and a leader in the Black Student Union Club.

Max McEnelly has won state titles at 170lbs, 182lbs., and two at 195lbs. for the Waconia Wildcats. One of the many impressive statistics for Max was that he beat a defending and/or future state champion en route to all four of his state titles. Max has also represented the US National Team in international competitions. Football is another sport that McEnelly has excelled in as a four-year starter and a Mr. MN Football Finalist as a running back. Max participates in the “Letters of Love” program by writing letters to sick children.

The MWCA and MN Women’s Wrestling are honored to have Joel Makem Ratzinger and Max McEnelly representing our organizations.