Coming back from one serious injury is difficult enough, but coming back from two, to the same body part no less, takes a huge amount of dedication, heart and love for your craft.

Not only did senior Nik Fekete fight off two serious shoulder dislocations to return to the mat, but he says his confidence never wavered along the road to recovery.

"I had so much support, from family, friends and teammates," he said. "Never once did I not think I could fully recover."

Fekete's first shoulder injury occurred as he was competing in an offseason tournament prior to the 1999-2000 season and caused him to miss his entire sophomore campaign.

After that setback, he returned to amass a 34-12 record in the 2000-01 season and went on to achieve All-American status.

The next year Fekete only competed in nine matches before suffering the second injury in a meet with Michigan.

For both injuries, the 197-pounder went through a strenuous rehabilitation program.

"Both times, I just heard something pop," Fekete said. "As soon as it happened, I knew it was trouble. Any injury is bad for an athlete. But it's unfortunate the rehab became a routine."

Although he is happy to be competing again, Fekete said the shoulder isn't back to where it was before the injuries. But it hasn't affected his performance this season.

"I can honestly say it's not too bad," he said. "I just wish it was stronger."

This season, Fekete is ranked No. 6 in his weight class and is on an eight-match winning streak that has boosted his record to 14-4.

Although it might seem Fekete's injury could not have done any good for the team, it has.

When he was out, senior John Wechter was inserted into the starting line-up last season and was one match away from being an All-American.

With Fekete and the 285-pound Wechter being outstanding on the mat and competing in the same weight class, head coach Tom Minkel had a decision to make.

"Anytime you have one of your big guns out, it hurts," Minkel said. "In Nik's absence, John came on very strong. He became a starter and was one match away from being an All-American. "They didn't want to fight for the starting spot all year, so John moved up to heavyweight."

In the heavyweight division, Wechter is currently ranked No. 20 with a 14-11 record.

As a sign of respect and admiration Fekete's teammates chose him as team captain this season. Minkel said he serves as a role model.

"He's just the kind of guy that should be a leader," he said. "He's got a great competitive spirit. He's one of our team leaders. I think a lot of the younger guys look to him for added motivation."

Fekete could continue to serve as a motivator for teammates for another year because he may have a six-year eligibility, Minkel said. Although Fekete has made it all the way back and is having a successful season, he is quick to reflect on his bump in the road.

"I can say it was really hard going through those times," he said. "I just stayed positive and had faith that I could make it all the way back. I think I'm having a great year and the comeback would be complete if I make it back to the NCAAs. And I think I can do it."