For the story on Jim Heffernan's hiring, click here

For an interview with Heffernan, click here

We asked Illinois wrestling writer Bob Asmussen his take on the hiring of Jim Heffernan to replace Mark Johnson:

You would never question Heffernan's credentials as a coach. Anybody who worked with Mark Johnson for 19 years, and was an NCAA champion at powerhouse Iowa, is more than qualified to run the Illinois program.

The question I would have had before Tuesday's press conference was Heffernan's ability to handle the other stuff. That question was answered by the new coach. He came across as a guy with a plan and a quick wit. It will be fun getting to know him better in the next few years.

Former Illini Steve Marianetti, who many thought would be a candidate for the job, didn't apply because he thought Heffernan was the logical choice. Marianetti praised the hire, which means a lot.