The six freshmen on Iowa State’s wrestling team are going into some uncharted territory on Saturday as they prepare for the Big 12 Championship in Columbia, Mo.

But these freshmen aren’t like most freshmen. Their effort in the practice room has prepared them for anything they may face in March.

“They’re ready and they know they are,” said coach Cael Sanderson. “Part of that is being calm and trusting that your training has been adequate and knowing that you’re prepared . Then just being relaxed and going in there and fighting for what you want, and that’s the attitude they’ve had.”

The six freshmen have a combined record of 17-5 against Big 12 competition and are led by a pair of 4-0 wrestlers in Nick Fanthorpe (125) and David Zabriskie (HWT). Those two could have No. 1 seeds with three other freshmen having a chance at a No. 2 seed.

So far, the class seems to be living up to its hype – deemed the No. 1 recruiting class in 2005 – but room for improvement is always there.

“From their first match of the season until now they’ve gotten, I’d say 50 to 100 percent better,” said Nate Gallick, who is now part of the wrestling team staff. “They’re definitely the most talented group of freshmen that we’ve had since I’ve been here.”

Gallick was a three-time All-American for Iowa State and the 2006 NCAA 141-pound champion.

Consistency has been what Sanderson has preached all season but also to keep in mind the big picture – March.

“A lot of these guys have a great mind set, similar to any good wrestler,” Sanderson said. “It’s being consistent and that’s what they’ve been – they’re excited. That’s what it’s all about at this time of the year. It’s just a great opportunity to go out there and do well at the Big 12s and the national tournament. This is what we train for.”

One freshman standout who still looks to be able to wrestle is 12th-ranked (InterMat) 141-pounder Mitch Mueller (16-12). Mueller dislocated his elbow in a meet against Rider on Feb. 9 and has not wrestled in any of the Cyclones’ dual meets since then.

Mueller, an Iowa City native, still has a chance to wrestle in the Big 12 Championships, which is the only way to qualify for the national tournament. He will be a tournament day decision.