DENMARK, Wis. - Brock Bergelin, a standout wrestler from Denmark, Wisconsin, is channeling his lifelong passion for the sport into a burgeoning business, 'Chosen Higher Gear.' This innovative venture not only reflects his competitive spirit but also marks a significant milestone with a new partnership with the University of Wisconsin wrestling program.
Bergelin's journey began on the wrestling mats of his hometown, where he earned three state titles as a member of the Denmark Vikings. His success on the mat propelled him to compete at the collegiate level, where he wrestled for Central Michigan University. "Growing up, I was super competitive. No matter what time of year it was, I always wanted to compete," Bergelin recalled, emphasizing the drive that has fueled both his athletic and entrepreneurial pursuits.
After concluding his college wrestling career, Bergelin sought a way to remain connected to the sport that had shaped him. He found this connection through wrestling shoes, a passion he had nurtured since childhood. As he approached the end of his time at Central Michigan, he began designing his own footwear, laying the groundwork for his future business.
"I started a business out of my basement right out of college," Bergelin explained. While simultaneously coaching, he nurtured this venture, which eventually led him to partner with Cayden Henschel from Milwaukee. Together, they have transformed their initial idea into Chosen Higher Gear, which has expanded beyond wrestling shoes to include knee pads, headgear, and team apparel.
For Bergelin, the company serves as a platform to inspire the next generation of wrestlers. "I’m just trying to help as many kids in the next generation as possible and build this brand," he stated, highlighting his commitment to giving back to the sport that has given him so much.
The recent partnership with the University of Wisconsin wrestling program represents a significant achievement for Chosen Higher Gear. This collaboration marks the company's first association with a Big Ten school, a notable milestone for Bergelin. "We just signed the University of Wisconsin. That’s been awesome," he expressed. The partnership will see the creation of Wisconsin wrestling-branded gear and shoes, including a custom-designed wrestling shoe exclusive to the Badgers.
"They are really going to be the only school in the country that will get their own custom wrestling shoe that’s made for them and made for the state of Wisconsin," Bergelin noted, underscoring the uniqueness of this collaboration.
Bergelin attributes his business philosophy to the values instilled in him by his family and his wrestling background. "My dad is really hard-nosed, and my mom is super caring and compassionate," he reflected. He believes that combining hard work with compassion is essential for building a successful business.
As Chosen Higher Gear continues to grow, Bergelin remains focused on expanding the brand's reach and impact within the wrestling community. With the Wisconsin Badgers partnership secured, he is eager to see how far his company can go, driven by the same competitive spirit that has defined his life.
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