Lee stayed in touch with his teammates while he was gone, went to matches and met most of the freshman during their recruiting visits to Harvard. As a result, getting back into the program was not a problem.

“Reggie’s presence as an athlete and leader is vital to the team,” Jantzen said. “The example he sets on and off the mat is one of class and hard work.”

Lee will be wrestling one weight class higher than when he left, at 197 lbs. instead of 184 lbs. However, this is not unfamiliar territory for him—he spent much of his freshman and sophomore seasons at the heavier weight.

Both Lee and Weiss agree his wrestling style is better suited to 197 lbs. At 184 lbs., the competition is much quicker. Thirteen pounds heavier, matches depend on physical strength.

“He’s as strong as a horse,” Weiss said. “At 184, he loses his strengths in wrestling.”

Weiss also said that spending time away from wrestling may improve Lee’s abilities because he is definitely ready to get to work.

“Without the competition, guys get hungry,” Weiss said. “He is more focused now.”

Lee also said that it easier for him to concentrate on both wrestling and college. Furthermore, Lee has gained a new appreciation for both because he recognizes he is not going to have another chance to play competitive sports after he graduates.

“The most you have when you’re older is neighborhood softball leagues and bowling,” Lee said.

After college, Lee is considering coaching wrestling at the high school level, indicating he may not leave the sport behind completely.

For now, however, Lee is focused on making the most of his collegiate wrestling career. He hopes to get to the Eastern Championship and be named one of the top eight All-Americans.

Last year, Lee needed a break.

This year, he’s finally ready to rumble.