InterMat Staff

Stillwater, Okla. -- Iowa State wrestling recruits T.J.Sebolt (Centerville, Iowa) and Jon Reader (Davison, Mich.) were the recipients of the prestigious 2006 Dave Schultz High School Excellence awards Wednesday presented by the National Wrestling Hall of Fame and Museum. The annual award is given to high school seniors who demonstrate excellence in wrestling success, scholastic achievement, character, citizenship and community service. Sebolt and Reader have combined for seven state championships and career records of 438-7. "Sebolt and Reader are two important pieces of the puzzle to elevate the Iowa State wrestling program to the top," head coach Cael Sanderson said. "I'm proud of their accomplishments and this honor is a great way to foreshadow a sign of things to come on the collegiate level." Sebolt became the 17th wrestler in Iowa high school history to win four state titles with a 9-3 decision in his Class 2-A 130-pound final over Zach McCool of Manchester West Delaware. Sebolt wrapped up his highly decorated career with a record of 207-1 including a state mark 137 falls. Sebolt also had a record prep win streak of 192 matches and was ranked second in Amateur Wrestling News' lastest high school rankings at 130 pounds. He is projected to redshirt next season. "This award caps off my career in a nice way but college is here now and it's time to move on," Sebolt said. "My goal is to win open tournaments and get stronger in my redshirt year." Reader capped off a phenomenal career at Davison High School under head coach Roy Hall claiming his third Michigan state title to finish with a career mark of 231-6. Reader completed an undefeated senior season with a 60-0 record, pinning 53 consecutive opponents. He was recently named "Mr. Michigan Wrestler of the Year" by the Michigan Wrestling Association. Reader joined former teammates Brent Metcalf (Virginia Tech) and Nebraska All-American Paul Donahoe by earning the in-state honor. Reader is ranked second at 152 pounds in AWN's rankings. Reader is expected to redshirt next season. Three ISU redshirt freshmen won the Dave Schultz award last season as high school seniors, Jake Varner (California), Nick Gallick (Arizona) and Cyler Sanderson (Utah). The award is named in honor of Olympic and World champion Dave Schultz who was inducted in the National Wrestling Hall of Fame and Museum in 1997.

Mike Duroe of Iowa City, Iowa has been named 2005 Freestyle Coach of the Year by USA Wrestling. This is the first time that Duroe has received this prestigious award Duroe was a coach for the 2005 U.S. Freestyle World Team, which placed eighth in the standings and featured two medalists, competing in Budapest, Hungary. Duroe has coached numerous U.S. World-level teams, both in men's freestyle and women's freestyle, as a volunteer coach and also as a staff member for USA Wrestling. He was on the staff of the last three U.S. Olympic men's freestyle coaching teams. Along with Lou Rosselli of Edinboro, Pa., Duroe has been named by USA Wrestling to serve as a 2006 U.S. Freestyle World Team coach, working at the Wrestling World Championships in Guangzhou, China in the fall. Duroe is the head wrestling coach at Cornell College, a Div. III school in Iowa. He served as an interim coach in 2005-06, and accepted the full-time position this spring. He was previously the coach of the Hawkeye Wrestling Club and the administrative assistant for the Univ. of Iowa wrestling program. He has extensive coaching experience on the high school, college and international levels. Duroe served in two professional coaching positions for USA Wrestling, the national governing body. From 1998-2000, he was USA Wrestling's Freestyle Developmental Coach. In 2001, Duroe served as USA Wrestling's Freestyle Resident Coach, working with the elite men's freestyle wrestlers at the U.S. Olympic Training Center. As National Developmental Coach, Duroe was responsible for the responsible for developing age-group freestyle wrestlers. He also managed USA Wrestling's women's wrestling programs, including serving as the Head Women's National Coach. Under Duroe's leadership, the United States was successful in age-group World Championships in freestyle wrestling. The highlight of his efforts with the women's program came in 1999, when the United States won the World Team Title in women's wrestling. Prior to joining USA Wrestling's national staff, he coached U.S. teams on the national and international level in men's and women's wrestling. He served as the head coach of three U.S. Women's World Teams (1995-97). Duroe served as head coach of the women's team at the 1997 Pan American Championships. He also was an assistant coach for the 1996 Pan American Championships men's team. Duroe was also the head coach of the 1995 Cadet World Team. He also served as a coach at four U.S. Olympic Festivals (1989-90, 1993-94). Duroe served as head coach at Northern Michigan Univ. from 1980-85, and assistant coach from 1978-80. During his tenure at Northern Michigan, he tutored 27 All-Americans and three national champions. Duroe was also the coach for the Wildcat Wrestling Club at Northwestern Univ. from 1985-86 and an assistant wrestling coach for the Univ. of Pennsylvania from 2001-2003. Duroe served as the head coach at New Trier High School in Illinois from 1986-98, where he led his team to four conference and five regional team titles. As an athlete, Duroe was a two-time regional champion for Drake Univ. He served as captain of Drake's team for three years and has been inducted into the Drake University Wrestling Hall of Fame. Duroe competed on the national level in freestyle in the early 1980s. He was a three-time national freestyle placewinner, and was the 1983 AAU National champion. USA Wrestling will be announcing major award winners each day this week on TheMat.com. PAST FREESTYLE COACH OF THE YEAR AWARD WINNERS 2005 -- Mike Duroe, Iowa City, Iowa, Hawkeye TC 2004 -- Bobby Douglas, Ames, Iowa, Sunkist Kids 2003 -- Tom Brands, Iowa City, Iowa, Hawkeye WC 2002 -- Tom Brands, Iowa City, Iowa, Hawkeye WC 2001 -- Zeke Jones, Morgantown, W.Va., Sunkist Kids 2000 -- John Smith, Stillwater, Okla., Sunkist Kids 1999 -- Greg Strobel, Bethlehem, Pa., New York Athletic Club 1998 -- John Smith, Stillwater, Okla., Sunkist Kids 1997 -- Greg Strobel, Bethlehem, Pa., New York Athletic Club 1996 -- Bruce Burnett, Colorado Springs, Colo., National Freestyle Coach 1995 -- Bruce Burnett, Colorado Springs, Colo., National Freestyle Coach 1994 -- Gene Davis, Colorado Springs, Colo., Athletes In Action 1993 -- Joe Seay, Oklahoma City, Okla., Sunkist Kids 1992 -- Bobby Douglas, Ames, Iowa, Sunkist Kids

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Al Bevilacqua of Amityville, N.Y., a longtime leader within wrestling at many levels, has been named Man of the Year by USA Wrestling, the national governing body for wrestling in the United States. This award recognizes an outstanding man for his contributions to the sport of wrestling. He is currently the Chairman of the innovative and successful Metropolitan Wrestling Association (MWA) Beat the Streets program, which is bringing wrestling to inner-city schools in the New York City area. Through Bevilacqua's leadership, the MWA Beat the Streets program is creating and funding wrestling teams in middle schools in New York City, where there has never been wrestling before. The program is funded through corporate and private donations, as well as sponsorship. Schools must be located that are willing to start a wrestling team, something that takes time and effort and commitment. In the program, a middle school receives a wrestling mat. In addition, a coach is solicited and provided a stipend, and receives coaches education through the USA Wrestling National Coaches Education Program. "All of the participants in the program are given t-shirts, shorts, Asics wrestling shoes, and wrestling equipment donated by Brute and Cliff Keen. Resilite and Dollamur are providing deeply discounted mats for all 20 schools. We would like to see 100 high schools and 100 middle schools by 2010 adding 8000 more kids to wrestling," he said. Starting with one model program, Baruch Middle School in Manhattan, N.Y., within a year the program has expanded to 20 middle schools within New York City. The success of the program has accelerated interest, and the MWA seeks to increase the number of schools that participate in the Beat the Streets program considerably in the future. "If a product is good, people want to be a part of it," said Bevilacqua. "We are selling it as a great activity for kids. Just give us an opportunity to put a mat in your school. Kids will come. They will be better students and better people. Our model school proved that it works." "There is nothing I have done in wrestling that equals this program," he said. "The potential of this will have a major impact long after I am buried. If this creates a model for major urban centers, wrestling will grow tremendously. It is the last frontier for our sport. We need more people. We need to make it broad based." Some of the other things that Bevilacqua has been involved in is the creation of Wrestling Day in New York City, a celebration of the sport that brings people together. He has participated in the development of the Mayor's Cup, a growing wrestling tournament in the city. Bevilacqua manages two wrestling websites in the New York area, NYWrestling.com as well as the MWA's website (mwausa.org). He also was one of the three individuals who were on the leadership team for the 2005 ASICS East Coast National Beach Wrestling Championships, the first major beach wrestling event in the nation. The East Coast Beach Nationals was a big success, with Bevilacqua handling marketing and promotions of the competition. He also has been a volunteer wrestling coach at Massapequa High School in recent years, a school where he was previously the head wrestling coach and one of only three coaches in school history. Bevilacqua has been involved with USA Wrestling since its early years of existence, going back to the formation of the organization as the U.S. Wrestling Federation. He has served in many capacities within USA Wrestling, including working on the national staff, serving as a state chairperson, serving as a member of the national coaching staff and working with state and regional teams and programs. He was a high school wrestling coach with the successful Massapequa team from 1962-1977, helping build one of the most successful programs in Nassau County and within the state. He served two years at the head wrestling coach at Hofstra University, a Div. I program located in Hempstead, N.Y. Bevilacqua was a member of the USA Wrestling National Coaching staff from 1983-1991, coaching top wrestlers on all levels. He served as a coach for the U.S. teams at the Junior World Championships, the Espoir World Championships and the World Cup. He also was the coach for the U.S. team that competed in the Tbilisi Championships in the former Soviet Union. He was the USA Wrestling State Chairperson for New York from 1971-1979, and was the USA Wrestling Eastern Developmental Director from 1972-1979. Bevilacqua was a member of USA Wrestling's Board of Directors from 1972-1986. He also served for two years as an executive on the national staff for the U.S. Wrestling Federation, working as Assistant Director at the Stillwater, Okla. national headquarters from 1978-1980. The USWF received national governing body status for wrestling in 1983 and became USA Wrestling. Bevilacqua received his bachelor's degree from New York University, where he was a member of the wrestling team from 1957-1961. He competed with the New York Athletic Club team from 1960-1963. He received his masters degree from Queens College, and was in the doctoral program at New York University. Bevilacqua served as an educator with the Massapequa Public Schools from 1961 – 1994. He was an Assistant Director of the National High School Coaches Association from 1996-1999. He has also been involved in other business activities that have impacted the wrestling community. He was USA Wrestling's Coach of the Year in 1983. He has received a Lifetime Service Award from the National Wrestling Hall of Fame and has received a Special Service Award from U.S. Wrestling Federation. Among the Halls of Fame which he has been inducted are the New York State Wrestling Hall of Fame , the New York University Athletic Hall of Fame and the Massapequa High School Hall of Fame. He has been named MWA Man of the Year, and previously served as the chairman of the board for the MWA. Wrestling USA Magazine has named him Man of the Year. "Of all my achievements, this one is up there," said Bevilacqua. "I have received a USWF Special Service Award. This one finishes it off. I am an organizational guy, and this is very nice to have. I am proud that two of the last three winners of the USA Wrestling Man of the Year have been from the Metropolitan Wrestling Association. This is a group of people dedicated to wrestling and to USA Wrestling." PAST USA WRESTLING MAN OF THE YEAR WINNERS 2005 -- Al Bevilacqua 2004 -- Jeff Levitetz 2003 -- Set Agonian 2002 -- Al Kastl 2001 -- James Ravannack 2000 -- Rulon Gardner 1999 -- Duane Morgan 1998 -- Scott Beck 1997 -- Rick Tucci 1996 -- Dave Schultz 1995 -- Leroy Evans 1994 -- James E. Scherr 1993 -- Arthur J. Martori 1992 -- Bruce Baumgartner 1990 -- Eugene Barone 1989 -- John Vaughan 1987 -- Dave Rudrud 1986 -- Jeff Blatnick 1985 -- Dr. Dan Gould 1984 -- Gary Thompson 1983 -- Don Sondgeroth 1982 -- Frank Rader 1981 -- John Roberts 1980 -- Rick Bay 1979 -- Ben Bennett 1978 -- Werner Holzer 1977 -- Vince Zuaro 1976 -- Ken Kraft 1974-75 -- Russ Hellickson 1973 -- Jack Stanbro 1972 -- Melvin Jones 1971 -- Bud Linholm 1970 -- Rex Peery

Charlottesville, VA -- Lenny Bernstein, the head coach of the Virginia wrestling program for the last 13 seasons, announced his resignation today. Virginia athletics director Craig Littlepage said a comprehensive search would commence to find his replacement. "I have been thinking of leaving the coaching profession for about two years now and after finishing my master's degree this spring, I started to look at some other opportunities outside of coaching," Bernstein said. "Although there never seems to be a good time to leave coaching, I believe that I am leaving this program in excellent shape. I will certainly miss my staff, my colleagues at UVa, and my student-athletes. "With the return of every starter from this year's squad, and the continued support of the administration, I have a great deal of confidence that the program will reach the top 10 in the country. I have tremendous memories from the 13 years I have spent as head coach and the three years I worked under the guidance of George Edwards. It's time to become a fan of UVa wrestling and I look forward to the opportunities that lie ahead." During his 13 seasons as head coach Bernstein has led Virginia's program to a 106-92-2 record. He coached wrestlers in 12 NCAA Championships and saw 25 UVa wrestlers win Atlantic Coast Conference individual titles. During his tenure, Bernstein coached six of Virginia's nine All-Americans. "Coach Bernstein has been a valued member of our coaching staff during the time he served as assistant wrestling coach and head coach," Littlepage said. "He advocated in behalf of fully funding scholarships and worked to initiate plans to upgrade facilities like Memorial Gymnasium and practice and locker room facilities in Onesty Hall. He successfully led our team to three top 25 finishes at the NCAA Championships, most recently in 2004 when we finished 16th and has made UVa a regular contender for the ACC title." The Cavaliers finished the 2005-06 dual season with a 12-5 record including a 4-1 mark in the ACC competition that tied for first place in the regular season. The team was third at the 2006 ACC Championships. Bernstein served as an assistant coach for the Virginia wrestling program under George Edwards from 1990-93 before taking over as head coach for the 1993-94 season. Bernstein graduated from UNC in 1989, earning degrees in math and speech communications. As a Tar Heel he compiled a career record of 96-34-6 and won two ACC championships in three trips to the conference finals. He earned All-America honors after placing fourth at the 1987 NCAA Championships. He served as an assistant coach at UNC for one season before going to UVa, where he worked on a master's degree in sports psychology while assisting with the Virginia program.

OREM, Utah -- Utah Valley State wrestling coach Cody Sanderson has resigned his position in order to pursue other coaching opportunities. The search for the second coach in Utah Valley State's short wrestling history will begin immediately and is expected to be completed by early May. Sanderson, a native of Heber City, Utah, leaves Utah Valley with a 22-26-1 all-time dual record in three seasons. He led the Wolverines to a 9-9 record during the 2005-06 season, including wins in seven of their final eight duals. "Cody has done an excellent job in restoring collegiate wrestling to the state of Utah, here at Utah Valley," said Utah Valley State Director of Athletics Mike Jacobsen. "We wish him and his family the very best as he moves on to new opportunities." "Choosing to leave Utah Valley State was an extremely difficult decision. Ultimately I had to do what was best for my wife and children," said Sanderson. "The individuals that I have coached during the past three seasons are very fine young men. Because of their selfless commitment and determination, college wrestling has been restored in the state of Utah." Utah Valley State is the only school in Utah with a collegiate wrestling program. It was added before the 2003-04 season, coinciding with the school's move to NCAA Division-I athletics. "Wrestling is very important to our athletic program," said Jacobsen. "We will find and hire the very best to take our program to new and greater heights. We have great young men in our program and they deserve the very best." "Utah Valley is certain to emerge as a very competitive Division I team," said Sanderson. The athletic administration is committed to success, the high school wrestlers in the state consistently rank among the best in the nation, and the local community is very supportive." Those interested in the position should contact Director of Athletics Mike Jacobsen at 801-863-8998.

STILLWATER, Okla. -- The National Wrestling Hall of Fame & Museum in Stillwater, Oklahoma has announced its 2006 state winners of the Dave Schultz High School Excellence award. This annual award is bestowed upon high school seniors who demonstrate excellence in wrestling success, scholastic achievement, character, citizenship and community service. The award, named in honor of Olympic and world champion Dave Schultz, has recognized 528 wrestlers since its inception in 1996. "A graduate of Palo Alto High School and the University of Oklahoma, Dave Schultz was one of the greatest and most well-liked high school, collegiate, and international wrestlers the United States has ever had" said Lee Roy Smith, Executive Director of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame. Regarded as a tireless competitor and supreme tactician on the mat, he was beloved throughout the world of amateur wrestling for his friendliness and eagerness to lend help or advice to teammates and opponents alike. Schultz was inducted into the sport's Hall of Fame as a Distinguished Member in 1997. State-by-state winners were selected from the 48 states that sponsor interscholastic high school wrestling championships. Five regional winners will be selected from the 48 state winners on April 14, and from that group, one individual will be selected as the national winner. The national winner will be invited to Honors Weekend, June 2-3, in Stillwater to receive his award. Following are a list of the 2006 winners by state and school. State/Winner's Name/High School Alabama -- Forrest Millsap, Homewood Alaska -- Eli Hutchison, Skyview Arizona -- Anthony Robles, Mesa California -- Billy Murphy, Hughson Colorado -- Quinten Fuentes, Roosevelt Connecticut -- Mike Powers, Loomis Chaffee Delaware -- Andrew Bradley, St. Marks Florida -- David Craig, Brandon Georgia -- Nate Carr Jr., Jones County Hawaii -- Brandon Low, St. Louis Idaho -- Adam Hall, Bonners Ferry Illinois -- Jim Kennedy, Grant Community Indiana -- Paul Young, Bloomington South Iowa -- T.J. Sebolt, Centerville Kansas -- Jessie Strawn, Holton Kentucky -- Jacob Murton, Lawrence County Louisiana -- Mike Newberg, Parkway Maine -- Josh Pelletier , Foxcroft Academy Maryland -- Mack Lewnes, Mount St. Joseph Massachusetts -- Brian Sheehan, Lowell Michigan -- Jon Reader, Davison Minnesota -- Mike Thorn, St. Michale Missouri -- Zack Bailey, Oak Park Monatana -- Cole Dallaserra, Butte Nebraska -- Matt Vacanti, Papillion--La Vista Nevada -- Bryce Saddoris, Spring Creek New Hampshire -- Eric Morrill, Timberlane Regional New Jersey -- Mike Grey, Delbarton New Mexico -- John Paul Maynes, Silver New York -- J.P. O'Connor, Oxford Academy North Carolina -- Bryan Sigmon, Brandys North Dakota -- Scott Glasser, Bismarck Ohio -- Lance Palmer, St. Edward Oklahoma -- Lance Thompson , Stillwater Oregon -- Zach Giesen , North Valley Pennsylvania -- Matt Dunn, Reynolds Rhode Island -- Ted Coppa, North Kingston South Carolina -- Matt Leach, Greenville Eastside South Dakota -- Brett Jarman, Canton Tennessee -- Corey Manson, Baylor Texas -- Ben Ashmore, Bishop Lynch Utah -- Levi Mele, Uintah Vermont -- Corey Greene, Mount Anthony Virginia -- Jordan Frishkorn, Great Bridge Washington -- Brandon Sitch, Kelso West Virginia -- Joey Lindamood, Parkersburg Wisconsin -- Trevor Bradvold , River Falls Wyoming -- Josh Sainz, Star Valley

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AMES, Iowa -- Three-time All-American and 2006 NCAA 141-pound champion, Nate Gallick was named Iowa State's Outstanding Wrestler for the second consecutive year at the Cyclone wrestling banquet on Wednesday. Gallick was also awarded with the Dr. Wise Burroughs Leadership Award after earning his third Big 12 Conference title and compiling a 35-0 record during his senior campaign and a career record of 106-23. Former ISU wrestler, Eric Voelker, was the keynote speaker for the event. Voelker was a two-time NCAA champion (1987, 89) and a three-time All-American (1987, 88, 89). Gallick, Trent and Travis Paulson were honored as 2006 All-Americans. Trent placed fourth at 157-pounds, earning All-America honors for the second straight year and finishing with 28-4 record. Travis fashioned a 31-7 record and garnered All-America honors for a second time by placing sixth at 165-pounds. Trent and Travis were honored as the team's outstanding juniors. Joe Curran and 174-pounder David Bertolino were named the team's outstanding freshman and sophomore, respectively. Curran wrestled as a true freshman at 197-pounds and recorded five wins by fall. Jesse Sundell received the award for most falls this season with seven. Sundell concluded his career at ISU by making his second straight appearance at the NCAA Championships. ISU heavyweight Richard Schopf was named the Cyclones' Most Improved Wrestler. Sophomore 125-pounder, Ben Hanisch was recognized with the award for hardest work ethic and 149-pounder Grant Turner was presented with the Perseverance Award. Jason Knipp and Hanisch were named to Academic All-Big 12 conference first-team, while Travis and Schopf garnered second-team honors. Gallick, Paulsons and Kurt Backes were honored for serving as team captains for the 2005-06 season.

IOWA CITY, IA -- Former Hawkeye wrestler Tom Brands, a 1996 Olympic gold medalist and four-time all-American has been named head wrestling coach at the University of Iowa. The three-time national champion and member of wrestling's Hall of Fame was introduced to the media by Iowa Director of Athletics Bob Bowlsby at a press conference this afternoon. He is only the eighth wrestling coach at the University of Iowa. "We are very pleased and proud to have Tom Brands returning to lead our wrestling program," said Bowlsby. "The Iowa program is one of the most decorated sports programs in all of intercollegiate athletics and with that comes very lofty expectations. We feel that Tom is capable of meeting those expectations and further contributing to our achievements. We also feel that Coach Brands will lead the program with high integrity and that he will support our team members in all areas of their experiences on our campus." Brands served as head coach at Virginia Tech University for two seasons (2005-06), recording a 17-20 dual mark. In his first season with the Hokies, Brands led the team to the 2005 regular season Atlantic Coast Conference title, set a school record for dual meet wins (16) and had a school-record five wrestlers qualify for the NCAA Championships. During his tenure, Virginia Tech crowned five conference champions and two all-Americans. Senior heavyweight Mike Faust was named 2006 ACC Wrestler of the Year. Prior to taking the helm at Virginia Tech, Brands was an assistant coach at Iowa for 12 seasons (1993-2004). He helped the Hawkeyes to a 177-27 dual record, seven NCAA and eight Big Ten titles, while crowning 23 NCAA Champions, 73 all-Americans and 36 Big Ten Champions. He was named National Wrestling Coaches Association Assistant Coach of the Year in 2000. In 2004, he was one of three coaches for the U.S. Olympic freestyle wrestling team, participating in Athens. Brands also served as assistant coach for the 2002 and 2003 U.S. Freestyle World Teams, earning Freestyle Coach of the Year honors from USA Wrestling both years. He was also a member of the U.S. coaching staff at the 2001 World Championships, and has coached a number of other U.S. teams in international competition. As a competitor, Brands won the 1996 Olympic freestyle gold medal at 136.5 pounds in Atlanta, GA. He also won a gold medal at the 1993 World Freestyle Championships in Toronto, two World Cup gold medals (1994, 1995) and was the 1995 Pan American Games champion. He won four U.S. Nationals titles (1993-96) and made four straight U.S. World or Olympic teams (1993-96). Along with his twin brother, Terry, Tom was named 1993 USA Wrestling Athlete of the Year, the 1993 John Smith Outstanding Freestyle Wrestler and 1993 Amateur Wrestling News Man of the Year. He was inducted into wrestling's Hall of Fame in 2001. Brands was a four-time all-American at Iowa (1989-92). During his Hawkeye career, he won three NCAA titles and was named Outstanding Wrestler of the 1992 NCAA Championships. Also a three time Big Ten champion, Brands won 95 percent of his matches at Iowa. His career mark of 158 7 2, included an undefeated season in 1991 (45 0). The Sheldon, IA, native was born April 9, 1968. He earned his B.S. degree in physical education from Iowa in 1992. He and his wife, Jeni, have three children, Madigan, Kinsee and Tommy.

Big men -- mainly heavyweights -- are the most recognized wrestlers in the United States. There is a stigma that follows them around throughout their lives, one that says that while they are mean, dominant forces on the mat, they are cuddly teddy bears off it. But recently, athletes such as Kerry McCoy and Steve Mocco have changed that perception somewhat. Heavyweight wrestlers throughout history such as Chris Taylor, Bruce Baumgartner, Jeff Blatnick and Rulon Gardner have all had the "grizzly bear on the mat, teddy bear off it" glow to their personalities. Instead of being compared to a bear, McCoy has instead been compared to Greek sculptures, hosting a physique that sports fans are accustomed to seeing in the NFL. While McCoy is definitely approachable off the mat as well, he is not the classic image of what a U.S. heavyweight has looked like in the past. But since McCoy stopped competing at 264 lbs. internationally, ending with his seventh place finish in the 2004 Athens Olympics, that physique has taken a hit. Now as a head coach at Stanford Univ., he is closer to the lower weight class of 211 lbs., weighing anywhere between 222-228 lbs. on any given day according to him. "I am actually at my normal body weight. Many people do not realize how hard I had to work to keep my weight up. They forget or don't know that I wrestled 190 as a freshman in college and 177 as a senior in high school," McCoy said as he has already begun to prepare for his second season as Stanford's coach. "Most of my college career I was about the same weight that I am now, so the main reason I lost weight is that I am not trying to keep it on. I used to lift weights three to six times a week depending on my training and now I think I have lifted three to six times all year." That rigorous work ethic during his training days is what made McCoy the unofficial leader of the World Teams and the Olympic Teams he was a part of. But as a coach at Stanford, McCoy's role has changed. "As a coach at Stanford I am definitely not 'the leader.' There are so many people here that have accomplished so much that I am trying to learn as much as I can," he said. Kerry McCoyMcCoy is also changing another perception of heavyweight wrestlers -- the one that says they don't have brains. The big man is a technology whiz, and goes at great lengths to stay up-to-date with the newest products and features. And surely, taking the time to make sure his glasses don't fog up before he did interviews always surprised the media. Today, though, McCoy's job is to change two more perceptions -- the ones about West Coast wrestlers and Stanford wrestling. For years, wrestling fans have considered wrestlers from the west coast as "soft," a perception that amazingly exists in most any sport. While McCoy agrees that there is a difference in styles, he is also confident that his wrestlers at Stanford can match the intensity level of any East Coast wrestler. "I think the west coast style is more slick and funky in general. You see a lot more rolling and scrambling out here. Back east, there was a little bit of that, but most of the east coast wrestlers had more controlled and physical styles," McCoy stated. "Our guys are hard workers that gave total effort. I think we were in as good of shape if not better than most of our competition and that was something that I always focused on myself." That hard work translated into a winning season for a young team, including four PAC-10 placewinners and one NCAA All-American. Nonetheless, developing wrestlers in California and recruiting a would-be surfer to stay in a wrestling room year-long is an enviable task. But for the man who was raised in Long Island, spent many cold winters training in State College, Pa. and then spent more training others in Bethlehem, Pa., McCoy couldn't be more pleased as to where he has ended up. "Stanford is one of the nations best universities as well as one of the most successful athletic programs. I wanted to be a part of that. Also the weather is great and the people are even better," McCoy said while adding that he does miss his family at times. He should be more careful what he says. Someone may want to run up and give him a squeeze. Favorite color -- (Standford) red, (Penn State) blue or (Lehigh) brown? Blue, covered with brown, and red on top. What advice would you give prospective college recruits? Do as much as you can while you can. On the mat is important, but what you do off the mat is very important as well. Get involved in a few things that will make you a stronger candidate. I think many people wait until their senior year to start preparing for college. I think if you can start as a freshman or even an 8th grader and start finding out what colleges are looking for, you will have a much better experience as the years go by. You love having the latest technology. What is the latest item you purchased? I was in the Verizon store the first day the Treo 700 came out, but I resisted the temptation to buy it. So there have not been many new tech purchases. I did get a mac laptop, so I am still working on learning how to work it, but not much outside of that.

Manheim, Pa. -- It's been complete domination. This year's Brute Scholastic Showcase presented by the National Wrestling Coaches Association and the Delaware Wrestling Alliance has a familiar name expected to lead the charge for another team title. Pennsylvania has owned the event in recent years, winning every year since the event moved from Battle Creek, Mich., to its current home in Delaware. This year should see more of the same as a pair of Pennsylvania teams lead the 21-team field at the 2006 Scholastic Showcase to be held April 8-9, 2006 at Delaware State University's Memorial Hall in Dover. This is a USA Wrestling sanctioned event, and the participants are all USA Wrestling members. With 39 state champions in the field and 146 state placewinners, the event will put the top underclassmen in the country up against each other in a state vs. state format. With four rosters still to be submitted, the numbers of state champions and state placewinners is expected to rise significantly. With 21 teams in the field, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Indiana, Ohio and Virginia are bringing two each, while Colorado, Florida, Illinios, Michigan, and New York will also be fielding state teams. "This event really has all the makings of a real wrestling spectacle," said NWCA Executive Director Mike Moyer. "The Scholastic Showcase has traditionally been one of the best events an accomplished underclassman can compete in with his state." "Each year, there are future NCAA Division I All-Americans meeting head to head in the event and this year should be more of the same," said Moyer. Teams will be seeded one through eight and will compete in pool competition all day on Friday. The top two teams of each pool will advance to an eight-team bracket championship on Saturday to compete for the scholastic duals title. Highlighting the field individually are a slew of nationally ranked state champions from around the country. Top-ranked 103-pounder Jordan Oliver will kickstart the PA Gold team and with him comes the return of Alex Meade, the talented state champion from Delaware now enrolled at Easton Area High School in Pennsylvania. Two-time state champion Tim Darling of Nazareth and state runner-up Tyler Nauman of Middletown anchor the PA Gold. The PA Blue has its share of talented wrestlers, with Derry Area's two-time state champion Troy Dolan and Canon-McMillan's Colin Johnston leading the charge. Both are dominant lightweights. Beast of the East runner-up Mike Robinson is also in the field as well as fellow Beast placer Chris Heinrich of Germantown Academy, a National Prep runner-up. Maryland's Gold team has eight state champions including three-time state champion Eren Civan of Walt Whitman High School. Civan is 120-0 in high school and last year in Fargo, won titles in both Cadet Freestyle and Cadet Greceo. Vince Taweel is also one to watch as the Hammond High School junior is a three-time state champion. National Prep runner-up Michael Bressler is also solid. Colorado makes the farthest trip, bringing four state champions and 13 state placewinners. Illinois comes with a diverse array of talent, highlighted by Mt. Carmel 215-pounder Christian Brantley, a very tough upper weight that finished second in the state this past year. Massachusetts' A-Team brings five state champions with one hailing from Rhode Island – two-time state champion Cory Pelletier. New York's team is primarily Long Island-based, but with it is state champion John Oschmann at 130 and Long Beach state champion Edquardo Delgado. Maciej Jochym, Cory Lemka and P.J. Gillespie are also state placewinners. Virginia Blue boasts four state champions including three-timer Junior Pearman from Great Bridge. Beast placewinner Andrew Williams of Tabb High School in Yorktown, Va., bolsters a deep 108-pound weight class in the event. He finished third at the Beast of the East. The weights are federation weights plus five pounds, so 103 is 108, 112 is 117 and so on. ABOUT THE NWCA The National Wrestling Coaches Association, established in 1928, is a professional organization dedicated to serve and provide leadership for the advancement of all levels of the sport of wrestling with primary emphasis on scholastic and collegiate programs. The membership embraces all people interested in amateur wrestling. The NWCA, through its organizational structure, promotes communication, recognizes achievement, recommends rules and regulations, sponsors events, and serves as an educational and informational source. Additionally, the NWCA strives to foster the sportsmanship and integrity that are the cornerstones of athletic competition. ABOUT THE DWA "The Delaware Wrestling Alliance, Inc. is committed to promoting, enhancing, and developing through educational assistance, individual, and team building, moral character development, community spirit, and sportsmanship." DWA is a non-profit, 501-C3 Tax Exempt corporation, and was formed in January of 1996 to promote the sport of wrestling in Delaware at all levels. Formerly named the Delaware Wrestling Booster's Association, the DWA is comprised of members from all facets of the Delaware wrestling community. Included in it's membership are representatives from: The Delaware Wrestling Officials Association, The Delaware Wrestling Coaches Association, high school booster clubs, youth groups, Delaware Wrestling USA, and fans of all ages.

This Saturday Wrestling coaches and athletes will have a chance to receive world class instruction from one of the all-time greats of the sport -- Dan Gable and TDR listeners will hear from the legend on LIVE on air. Coach Gable will be the featured clinician at the Dan Gable Championship Wrestling Clinic. The clinic will be held April 7-8 at Newton's Berg Middle School. The hosts for the clinic include Championship Productions and the International Wrestling Institute and Museum. Takedown Wrestling Radio is please to broadcast its Saturday morning program for the 2nd consecutive year. The chance to talk to Dan Gable, Cornell Head Coach and 2005 NWCA "Coach of the Year" Rob Koll, UNI Asst. Coach and 2005 World Cup Bronze Medalist Tolly Thompson, Former Iowa Great Mark Ironside and Northwestern University Assist. Coach Rob Eiter all in one morning is incredible. Only Championship Productions and the IWIM have that ability. Topics to be covered on the mat and on air include: Practice drills, leg riding tilts, cradles and high crotch takedowns. Later that same day the mics will go silent as we attend the inductions of the IWIM's Glen Brand Hall of Fame. Inductees from the State of Iowa include: Bob Buzzard, Bob Darrah, Bill Dotson, Jim Duschen, Jim Harmon, Jim Heffernan, Bruce Kinseth, Mike Land and Ken Leuer. TDR encourages you all to attend as we honor these great athletes for conduct on and off the mat. For more information about the clinic call 800-873-2730 or visit ChampionshipProductions.com

LOCK HAVEN, Pa. -- The Lock Haven University wrestling team and head coach Rocky Bonomo held its annual season-ending awards banquet Saturday (April 1) in Bentley Hall on the LHU campus. Recipients of the year-end awards were: The Hildebrandt Award for most team points: Junior 157-pounder Seth Martin (Selinsgrove, Pa./Selinsgrove) The Hubert Jack Award coach's award: Senior 149-pounder Joshua Medina (Las Vegas/Pima C.C.) The Goldthorpe Award for most outstanding wrestler: Sophomore 125-pounder Obenson Blanc (Naples, Fla./Lely) The Fredericks Award for academic achievement: Junior 149-pounder Matt Fittery (Denver, Pa./Cocalico) The Dennis Killion Award for most improved: Junior 184-pounder Derrick Morgan (Milan, Pa./Athens) The Hildebrandt Award for most team points: Junior 157 pounder Seth Martin (Selinsgrove, Pa./Selinsgrove) The Rookie of the Year Award: Junior 197-pounder Tom Kocher (Lancaster, Pa./Manheim Township)

ANN ARBOR, Mich. -- The University of Michigan wrestling team, which captured its third consecutive Big Ten Conference dual-meet crown and a sixth straight top-10 finish at the NCAA Championships, celebrated its 2005-06 season and announced the team awards at its annual team banquet on Saturday (April 1) at the Junge Family Champions Center. For the second time in his U-M career, fifth-year senior captain Ryan Churella (Northville, Mich./Northville HS) was the recipient of the CLIFF KEEN AWARD for the team's most outstanding wrestler. In his final season at Michigan, Churella posted a near-perfect 29-1 record and advanced to the 165-pound final at the NCAA Championships. He ended his career as a three-time All-American and a three-time Big Ten Conference champion, just the eighth Wolverine in program history to accomplish such a task. His 117-18 career record places him sixth in the U-M record book for career winning percentage (.867) and 15th in career wins. He also ranks ninth among the all-time pin leaders with 35 career falls. The STEVE FRASER AWARD for mental toughness went to sophomore/freshman Steve Luke (Massillon, Ohio/Perry HS), who battled through adversity to register a 14-12 record in his first varsity season and earn a trip to the NCAA Championships after claiming a fourth-place finish at the Big Ten meet. Earlier in the season, Luke defeated a pair of opponents among the top four in the nation en route to the 157-pound title at the Cliff Keen Invitational as well as national and conference wrestler of the week recognition. Sophomore/freshman Casey White (Commerce, Mich./Walled Lake HS) was named the recipient of the DR. DONAHUE AWARD FOR ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE, the award that goes to the wrestler who has shown exemplary performance in the classroom and maintains the highest grade point average on the team. White, who plans to transfer into the Stephen M. Ross School of Business after the winter semester, also earned Big Ten All-Academic honors and is a two-time U-M Athletic Academic Achievement Award recipient. Fifth-year senior captain Greg Wagner (Fort Wayne, Ind./Snider HS) received the JEFF REESE AWARD as the most improved wrestler for his dedication to improving his skills and increasing his contribution to the team. While already establishing himself as one of the nation's top heavyweight in previous seasons, the U-M captain was simply dominant in his final collegiate season. Removing eight falls and a forfeit victory, 21 of his matches went the distance in 2005-06 with Wagner boasting a 155-28 combined winning margin. He closed out his U-M career with his greatest performance at the NCAA Championships in four appearances, claiming third-place honors behind a 5-1 record with three falls and a major decision. A three-time All-American, Wagner's career record of 134-37 ranks him seventh on Michigan's all-time wins list. This year's MARK CHURELLA MOST OUTSTANDING FRESHMAN AWARD went to sophomore/freshman Tyrel Todd (Bozeman, Mont./Bozeman HS). Behind a 20-12 season record, Todd demonstrated his ability to go toe-to-toe with the nation's best 184-pound competition. Of his 12 losses during the season, eight came by two points or less while three required overtime. He qualified for the NCAA tournament in just his first varsity season by claiming fifth place at the conference meet with wins against a pair of top-10 opponents. The 11TH MAN AWARD went to fifth-year senior Willie Breyer (Oxford, Mich./Oxford HS) for showing the most outstanding team dedication and effort in his willingness to always help his teammates. Breyer, who moved in and out of the lineup while battling with injury throughout the season, staged one of the most impressive performances at the Big Ten Championships, rallying from a first-round loss to post three straight wins and qualify for his first NCAA Championships. Breyer wrapped up his U-M career with a 50-45 mark and boasted 17 falls. The Wolverines concluded the 2005-06 season with a 16-2 dual record and a 8-0 Big Ten mark, earning their third straight conference dual-meet crown. After placing third at the Big Ten Championships, U-M posted a seventh-place team showing at the NCAA Championships, marking the program's sixth consecutive top-10 performance at the national meet.

This past March, Montclair State University (MSU) announced its plans to eliminate the varsity wrestling program. This is the second time in past 12 months they have tried to eliminate the program. Countless young wrestlers are counting on New Jersey tax paying citizens to voice your opinion again! Please take a moment to write a letter of support for saving this Division I team. Your efforts can make a difference. Some suggested talking points: • Montclair State University is a state supported school funded with tax payer dollars. MSU's primary mission is to develop the next generation of teachers and the mission should include coaches. MSU should have an obligation to provide activities like wrestling that are indigenous to the region. • There are 8,455 high school wrestlers in New Jersey and only six four-year intercollegiate wrestling programs (with an average college roster size of 25, this equates to 150 college "roster slots" to accommodate 8,455 scholastic wrestlers). • Based on NFHS participation statistics, New Jersey ranks 8th in the nation with respect to the largest number of scholastic wrestlers in a state. • The 2006 NJSIAA State Wrestling Championships in Atlantic City sold an unprecedented 41,000 tickets. This state tournament is among the largest in the nation. • Nationally, the NFHS has reported that the average tenure of a high school coach in the Olympic sports (including wrestling) is only 3-5 years. This statistic, along with the dwindling number of intercollegiate wrestling programs, has created a national shortage of high school coaches. • Currently, there are approximately 150 MSU alums that are coaching and/or teaching in the Mid-Atlantic region. Many of these coaches are among the best coaches in America. • MSU has a very rich wrestling tradition as evidenced by the following: 2 National Team Titles, 29 National Champions, and over 100 All Americans. Please show your support for Montclair State's wrestling team by e-mailing your letter to the following officials: Dr. Susan A. Cole, President MSU: coles@mail.montclair.edu Ms. Alyson Thelin, Secretary to the Board of Trustees: thelina@mail.montclair.edu New Jersey Governor Jon S. Corzine: Click on "Education" Option http://www.state.nj.us/governor/govmail.html Remember: 1. Be polite and courteous. 2. Thank them for considering your concerns. 3. If they fail to respond, write them again. There is an important rally taking place on the campus of Montclair State University on Thursday, April 6 from 3-6pm. We would like to encourage as many people as possible to attend this rally to show support for the reinstatement of the program. Please wear RED to show your support and make this a fun and positive day. The board of Trustees of MSU is meeting at College Hall at 4:30pm and they need to understand both the importance of wrestling at MSU and the current crisis in the MSU Athletic Department. Thank you for your support of college wrestling.

The Rev office has received many calls and e-mails in recent days surrounding the recent coaching changes at Iowa, Iowa State, and Ohio State from some inside sources. Some of these rumors might prove to be accurate, while others might prove to be, well, just rumors. • Cael Sanderson was going to be named head coach at Iowa State in the summer, so people who say that Bobby Douglas was forced out are way off base. It was likely going to happen after the summer wrestling camp season. Cael, Bobby, and Iowa State AD James Pollard talked about it. The only problem was the timing. Pollard got antsy and just wanted everyone to know that Cael was off the market. He didn't want Ohio State and Iowa to even consider Cael. Bobby was just really surprised by the timing, but other than that, he was all for Cael taking over. • Iowa State called an emergency meeting for wrestlers and coaches on Wednesday night after news broke that Bobby was replaced by Cael. Apparently, the information was leaked before many of the wrestlers even knew about it. • According to an Iowa State official, Cael was given a five-year contract with an initial base salary of $110,000. • The sudden Cael hiring was a P.R. move. Why let Iowa control all the headlines? Iowa State is trying to develop something, too. Chances are, Iowa fires Jim Zalesky and brings in Tom Brands and Iowa controls the headlines all summer, including when Cael is switched to the new coach later in the summer. Or, you could do it now (like Iowa State did), get some of that publicity for your school before Brands comes in, and look, Cael is just as hot (if not a hotter) topic right now. • The sudden Cael hiring had a lot to do with recruiting. Now everyone knows that Cael is coaching Iowa State and Brands is (or will soon be) at Iowa. There are no questions for recruits as to where Cael will be next year, or in two years, etc. • Chris Bono left Iowa State last off-season because Bobby and Cael sat him down. Bobby told Bono that Cael would take over this off-season, and then Cael said he wouldn't retain Bono on his staff, so Bono went looking elsewhere. This has been planned. • There is a possibility that Cody Sanderson will leave Utah Valley State to join Cael at Iowa State, where he'll become the head assistant coach. Cole Sanderson will be the strength and conditioning coach at Iowa State. And Cyler Sanderson will be the starting 149-pounder for the Cyclones. So it will be a Sanderson family affair in Ames. • Tim Hartung, who was let go as an Iowa assistant coach when Jim Zalesky was fired, will definitely be on Cael's staff at Iowa State. Cael and Hartung are close friends. Remember, Cael hand picked Hartung as his training partner to come down to Athens in preparation for the Olympics. • Derek Mountsier, a former Iowa State standout and Northern Iowa assistant coach, is a candidate to join Cael's staff at Iowa State. But in order for Mountsier to leave Tulsa (where he is a pharmaceutical rep), the job must pay really well. He is from Newton, Iowa, but his wife is from Oklahoma. • Cael wants people on his staff who aren't currently training, but he likes Zach Roberson a lot. So don't be surprised if Roberson stays on the Iowa State staff. • There is no chance that Tommy Rowlands will succeed Russ Hellickson as the next head coach at Ohio State. Rowlands will be moving to Colorado Springs to train full time. • Tom Brands is scheduled to interview for the Iowa job next week, but it's already a done deal. He is headed back to Iowa, along with all of his top recruits. Brent Metcalf vs. Dustin Schlatter should be a great Big Ten rivalry for years to come. • Brands had not yet spoken to Ohio State about their head coaching position. • Terry Steiner, an Iowa assistant who was also let go after Zalesky was fired, was very disappointed that the decision came so sudden. He's not sure yet what his future holds. "I wish they would have given us a chance with the staff we had here," Steiner told one source. "To me, two years is not enough time." • Mike Zadick will be on the Iowa staff next season. • Although it's unlikely that Dan Gable would return to coaching at Iowa, he hasn't completely ruled it out. • Zalesky had one year left on his contract. He will be paid $130,000 as part of a settlement. He could very well resurface next season at Ohio State or Oregon State. • Other names, besides Tom Brands, that are being thrown around as potential replacements for Zalesky include Terry Brands, Barry Davis, Brad Penrith, Mark Manning, Brad Penrith, Tom Ryan, Rob Koll, Jim Heffernan, Jim Miller, and Marty Morgan.

Has wrestling finally made it big? Ultimately, you can throw fan attendance, television ratings and everything else out the window when it comes to measuring the strength of a sport. Instead, you have to look at just one person -- a college's athletics director. Since the conclusion of the NCAA Wrestling Championships just a couple short weeks ago, three of the biggest jobs in all of college wrestling have opened up. And there are rumors of others, including at least one more in the Big Ten Conference. Call it coaches retiring, coaches resigning or coaches being fired, but all three Athletics Directors agreed on one thing -- their programs were not going in the right direction. Coaching slots at Iowa and Ohio State now must be filled. Olympic champion Cael Sanderson will take over at Iowa State, as was expected. But the timing of all three will continue to be questioned. The carousel began last week when Russ Hellickson announced an end to his 20-year reign at The Ohio State. Undoubtedly, Hellickson had seen some rough times with his program recently, including a protested match that was re-wrestled at the NCAA's this year. That almost seemed to be a breaking point. But with one of the nation's largest athletics budgets looming in search of a top head coach, including the likes of Rob Koll, Tom Ryan, Tom Brands, Iowa folded its hand on its entire coaching staff. Jim Zalesky may have had the toughest job in sports, which no one could argue -- following a legend. While Zalesky produced solid results at Iowa, the administration decided that after nine years, the program needed to be more competitive towards a national title. Forget that recruiting has completely changed since Dan Gable left, and that kids now know they can win a national title at almost any school. Iowa athletic director Bob Bowlsby flinched on Ohio State's move. In all reality, he would hate to see a coach such as Brands take over at Ohio State, instead of at Iowa. It would be an ironic twist for the program that rose to prominence after Gable left Iowa State. Another possible Iowa candidate would have been Sanderson, who brought in the top recruiting class in the country a year ago to Iowa State -- yes, even better than Brands'. So Iowa State did what they had talked about doing for two years, letting Douglas ride off into the sunset while Sanderson, this generation's version of Gable, was not allowed to ride a Cyclone two hours west to Iowa City. While this move was more predictable and expected, the timing couldn't have been more momentous. This was Iowa State's way of telling Iowa "Not this time!" And so now the wrestling world is left in limbo for the first time in decades - maybe ever. For college football fans, this time comes every year. Programs that struggled get rid of their coach (however they want to word it) and bring in fresh life. Brands has already become wrestling's version of Urban Meyer -- a young coaching prospect with a plethora of potential and respect. He is surely the top candidate on the lists at Ohio State and Iowa -- and with good reason, just as Meyer was the top candidate at Florida and Notre Dame over a year ago. Athletics Directors are finally showing that they care about wrestling. But not only that they care, but that they want to win as well. Oklahoma State's four straight titles will most likely be in jeopardy next year, and the wrestling world is seeing the rise of programs such as Cornell, Hofstra, Michigan and Illinois among others. Wrestling budgets are on the rise. While the Big Ten and Big XII Conferences have always placed money into their budgets, the smaller schools are starting to reap benefits. Cornell has one of the nicest practice and competition facilities you could find. MAC schools are all starting to bump scholarships up, and for those that have over nine scholarships, they are seeing their budgets increased. Other smaller programs such as Northern Iowa, Cal Poly, Edinboro and American have even become more competitive with national programs. Small schools are now being referred to as mid-majors, with Central Michigan playing the role of Gonzaga most recently. Maybe George Mason can become the next… George Mason. Soon, we may start seeing the "Iowa Clause" or the "Oklahoma State Clause" written into coaching contracts, similar to the "Notre Dame Clause" in college football. Who knows, maybe Brands and Ryan already have such a clause. And all this excitement could only mean good for the future of Real Pro Wrestling as well. The more that colleges begin to care, the more money they begin to use to fund a "non-revenue sport" such as wrestling, the more people on a national level will take notice. The more people that take notice of the live NCAA finals on ESPN, or of the individual athletes within the sport, the more they will follow these athletes beyond their college careers. Wrestlers such as Ben Askren who set themselves apart from the rest in the personality department will reap the most benefits of this. Last year, a record three wrestlers were nominated for ESPY Awards. This year, it's possible another two could be up for awards again. If the ESPY Committee is taking notice, and athletics directors are taking notice, certainly Average Joe sports fan will take notice.

Iowa State University head wrestling coach Bobby Douglas -- an NCAA champion coach, one of only three men in history to win more than 400 duals and an Olympian as a wrestler and coach -- announced Friday that he is retiring from coaching. Douglas will remain with the ISU athletics department as an assistant athletics director. Douglas said his move was to guarantee that his protégé Cael Sanderson -- an 2004 Olympic champion and the only undefeated (159-0), four-time NCAA champion -- would take over as Cyclone head coach. Cael Sanderson"The future of ISU wrestling is what I care about most." said Douglas. "I wanted to ensure that Cael Sanderson was that future. It is what fueled my decision to step down." Douglas added that he shares the vision of ISU athletics director Jamie Pollard for the wrestling team. "Jamie (Pollard) understands the importance of wrestling at this institution better than any previous athletics director," Douglas said. "I've told Jamie that having Cael Sanderson as the head coach of the Cyclone wrestling team will allow (Jamie) to fulfill the dreams he has for this program." Sanderson was Douglas' prize pupil at Iowa State and has worked his way up from special assistant to assistant coach to associate coach at his alma mater and is poised to build on the foundation that Douglas established. "I was fortunate to have a current coaching colleague and my greatest student ready to step in," said Douglas. "When you've put as much into a program as I have at ISU, it's natural to hope one of your own succeeds you." "I simply could not be more pleased or confident in a hire than I am with Cael," said Pollard. "As a competitor, he is unmatched. I know he'll bring the same level of enthusiasm, dedication and focus to the head coaching position. He is the ultimate winner and young wrestlers around the nation will be anxious to learn from him. I'm very appreciative of coach Douglas desire to make certain that Cael remains a Cyclone." Sanderson said the chance to lead the program at his alma mater was a "dream come true" story. "I'm introduced today as Iowa State's wrestling coach because of the selfless sacrifices of my college coach, Bobby Douglas," Sanderson said. "He has paved the way for me to assume this responsibility. Because of that, I'll have the opportunity to follow a legacy of legendary coaches at ISU. I promise to work as hard as I did as a competitor to build upon the traditions I've inherited as head coach. Iowa State University is a special place to our family. I'm humbled and excited at the same time about my opportunity." In 14 years at Iowa State, Douglas' teams had 11 top 10 national finishes (including NCAA runner-up efforts in 1996, 2000 and 2002), 50 All-Americans, 10 individual national champions, 29 Big 12 champions, and a dual record of 198-75-3 (.723). He was a three-time Big 8 / Big 12 Coach of the Year and the 2000 national coach of the year. Every one of his Cyclone teams boasted at least one All-American and the 1993 team produced seven. Nate Gallick became Douglas' latest NCAA champion, completing an undefeated season last week in Oklahoma City, Okla. Bobby DouglasDouglas also enjoyed remarkable success in 18 years at Arizona State before coming to Ames. The Sun Devils won nine conference championships (seven in a row from 1985-91), captured the 1988 NCAA title in Ames (the only one earned by a western school) and recorded a 227-75-6 dual mark. He was an eight-time coach of the year for the Sun Devils and coached three individual national titlists. Douglas said, "My coaching career allowed me the opportunity to come to work everyday doing something I love, teaching young people how to wrestle and helping them mature into adults." Pollard also announced the establishment of an endowed scholarship in the Hall of Fame coach's name. "To cement the legacy of coach Douglas, I'm pleased to announce publicly the creation of the Bobby Douglas Endowed Scholarship," Pollard said. "One Cyclone wrestler will receive his scholarship aid under the name of Bobby Douglas forever. I must thank John Allen for his generous financial contribution to endow this scholarship and guarantee that Coach Douglas is celebrated annually through this endowment."

TEMPE, Ariz. -- For the second year in a row, Arizona State University Head Wrestling Coach Thom Ortiz was selected as the Pac-10 Conference Coach of the Year, Commissioner Tom Hansen announced Wednesday. The honor is the third in Ortiz' five years at the helm of the Sun Devil program and the 15th for an ASU head coach in the 31 years the conference has recognized its top coach. Ortiz helped his Sun Devils post a 14-7 overall record in dual competition with a perfect 8-0 mark in the Pac-10 before heading to the 2006 Pac-10 Championships in Palo Alto, Calif., where the Sun Devils successfully defended their conference crown from one year prior. Five of his 10 starters advanced to the finals with Patrick Pitsch (165), Ryan Bader (197) and Cain Velasquez (285) winning individual titles. From there, Ortiz led six competitors into the 2006 NCAA Wrestling Championships where four earned All-America honors to help the team finish sixth in the nation. Brian Stith (157) advanced to the finals before placing second while C.B. Dollaway (184) finished fifth overall to earn his first All-America honor. Bader (seventh) and Velasquez (fourth) each earned their second All-America honor with Ortiz in their corner. Ortiz, who helped ASU tie Oregon State for the most Pac-10 wrestling titles in conference history with 16, is now tied for fourth in the Pac-10 for number of coaching honors as he, T.J. Kerr of CS Bakersfield and Mike Young of Boise State each have earned the honor three times. Former coaches Lee Roy Smith (ASU) and Dale Thomas (OSU) are tied for the second-most with four while former Sun Devil Bobby Douglas holds the most with eight. Two other individual honors were released with Boise State winning both as Ben Cherrington was selected as the Wrestler of the Year while Tyler Sherfey was selected as the Newcomer/Freshman of the Year.

Portland State junior 157-pounder Kainoa Casco and senior 149-pounder Adam Duryee were selected to the Pacific-10 All-Academic second team Wednesday, Commissioner Tom Hansen announced. Casco, who holds a 3.48 GPA, was a second time selection for the award having also been named to the Pac-10's second team last season. Duryee was a first time selection with a 3.21 GPA. To be eligible for selection to the academic team, a student-athlete must have a minimum 3.0 overall grade- point average and be either a starter or significant contributor.

TEMPE, Ariz. -- The Pac-10 Conference released its All-Academic Wrestling Teams Wednesday with four members of the Arizona State University program earning a place on the lists, Commissioner Tom Hansen announced. The four selections ties the program's record for most selections in one season with the 2000 squad that also added four to the list. Jason Trulson led the way as a first team selection while Kevin Gaughan, Pat Payne and Quinton Pruett each earned a place on the honorable mention list. All four honorees earned the first conference academic selection of their careers. Trulson's selection is his first as a member of the first team and makes him the 14th Sun Devil to collect the honor. All told, those 14 wrestlers have combined for 16 first team selections. The three honorable mention selections more than double the program's previous total of two as the distinction was added in the 2000 season. As a team this season, the Sun Devils captured their 16th Pac-10 Championship crown with three individual championships and five finalists before finishing sixth place at the NCAA Wrestling Championships on the strength of four All-Americans, including NCAA runner-up Brian Stith at 157.

Senior Risto Marttinen made the first team and sophomore Morgan Atkinson is on the second unit of the 2006 Pacific-10 Conference Wrestling All-Academic team announced today by Commissioner Tom Hansen. To be eligible for selection to the academic team, a student-athlete must have a minimum 3.0 overall grade-point average and be either a starter or significant contributor. Atkinson (Temecula, Calif.) placed fourth at the Pac-10 Championships at 149 pounds and qualified for the NCAA Championships, where he split four bouts. Marttinen (Laguna Niguel, Calif.), the Titans' 165-pounder, made the academic squad for the fourth year in a row. The team: First Team Yr. GPA Major Kyle Bressler, Oregon State RFr. 3.88 Pre-Construction Management/Engineering Lex Case, Boise State Jr. 3.61 Spanish Tanner Gardner, Stanford Jr. 3.69 Public Policy Nick Hernandez, Cal Poly RFr. 3.83 Kinesiology Jeremy Larson, Oregon State Jr. 3.59 General Science Risto Martinnen, CS Fullerton Sr 3.83 Health Sciences Eric Parker, CS Bakersfield Jr. 3.45 History Casey Phelps, Boise State Grad. 4.00 Education Jason Truison, Arizona State Jr. 3.72 Biology/Clinical Laboratory Studies Josh Zupancic, Stanford Jr 3.71 American Studies Second Team Yr. GPA Major Morgan Atkinson, CS Fullerton So 3.45 Business Administration Jared Boyer, Stanford RFr. 3.35 Undeclared Brian Busby, CS Bakersfield Sr. 3.14 Natural Sciences Kainoa Casco, Portland State Jr. 3.48 Business Administration Adam Duryee, Portland State Sr. 3.21 Business Administration David Espinsoa, UC Davis Sr. 3.30 Communications Andy Hall, Oregon State RFr. 3.60 Mathematics Thomas Kimbrell, CS BakersfieldRFr. 3.87 Undeclared Dustin Noack, UC Davis RFr. 3.78 Animal Science Garth Wara, CS Bakersfield RFr. 3.59 Physical Education/Kinesiology Honorable Mention: Ray Blake, Stanford; Jordan Brock, Boise State; Kevin Gaughan, Arizona State; John Hanks, Cal Poly; Juston Johnson, Stanford; Elliot Kelly, UC Davis; Beau Malia, Oregon; Andy Patrick, Boise State; Pat Payne, Arizona State; Brian Perry, Stanford; Quinton Pruett, Arizona State; Tyler Sherfey, Boise State; Kyle Sukanen, Oregon State.

This week on Takedown Radio: Well, things will settle down for Steve and I for a few weeks. Its been exciting for sure. I would like to thank everyone from InterMatWrestle.com, The NWCA, The NCAA, USA Wrestling, and the city of Oklahoma City. Nice work folks. Also a special thank you to my esteemed collegues in broadcasting. Cudo's to Steve Foster, J. Carl Guymon and Ryan Lang. You guys are the best! Scott and Julie from the NCAA, terrific job as always! This week on TDR -- Back in the studio, joining us will be: Pablo Ubasa -- Coach and former Wrestler Josh Koscheck -- Edinboro University 4x Placer at Nat. 1999 National Champ. Now UFC Star John Halverson -- Pro fighter and MMA promoter Chad Bergmeier -- Promoter Tim Flynn -- Head coach of Edinboro Steve Preston -- Strength and conditioning trainer

He wasn't even on my radar screen. The nation's best 112-pounder was not only unranked in the top 100 seniors, he wasn't even considered for a spot in the Rev Power Rankings. At least I wasn't alone -- not a single national ranking service had the nation's best 112, Anthony Robles, ranked prior to NHSCA Senior Nationals. It is something that happens every year. National rankings are necessarily based on results that may have happened over a year ago, sometimes several years ago. However, a 17-18-year-old wrestler can improve dramatically in a year. So every year, there is one who comes seemingly out of nowhere and defeats all the conventional favorites at Senior Nationals. In 2003, Daniel Mason-Strauss went from never being a state finalist in Ohio to being a national champion. In 2004, it was unheralded Tyler Sherfey upending highly decorated Angel Cejudo and Alex Tsirtsis. In 2005, one-time Illinois state champion Travis Hammons prevailed over an illustrious field. So, in actuality, the only question was not whether there would be an unknown seize the golden chalice, but who it would be. But there was a twist -- I certainly didn't count on the unknown wrestler having only one leg. While Anthony Robles was born without a right leg -- the term "handicapped" would be quite possibly the least appropriate word I can think of to describe him. Simply put, the 112-pounder from Mesa, Arizona, crushed a tough field to win Senior Nationals in Pittsburgh. While he had dominated the field up to the finals, including a first period fall over Jay Cobbs of Virginia in the semifinals, I thought for certain his undefeated season would come to an end in the finals against one of the nation's best 112's, Justin Paulsen of California. The first period ended scoreless as Paulsen appeared understandably uncertain as to how to attack Robles. In the second period, Paulsen made the mistake of choosing to wrestle on the mat with Robles instead of "cutting" him. Robles struck almost immediately with a switch. Once on top, Robles was able to take advantage of his tremendous upper-body strength advantage. He quickly titled Paulsen for three and simply punished him for the rest of the period. Paulsen wisely chose neutral in the third period, only for Robles to shoot in on a single, again use his power to convert the shot into a double and a 7-0 lead. After Paulsen finally got on the board with an escape, Robles added another takedown for a 9-1 final. I understand that Robles is currently unsigned. I would not expect that will last long! While Robles was by far the most powerful wrestler "pound for pound" in the competition, Lou Ruggirello, the 119-pound champion from New York, was probably second. "King Lou" made a great case for himself as the nation's best 119, though, unfortunately, Ben Ashmore was not there to settle that issue with him (more on that below). Only Tyler Zukerman of Oklahoma was able to slow down the onslaught of Ruggirello in a 7-2 loss, all other opponents succumbed by fall or technical fall. In this final against three-time state champion Walker Faison of Virginia, Ruggirello powered a first period chicken wing that was just plain painful to watch. Faison fought hard off his back for a very long time, but with 19 seconds to go in the first, could hold on no more as Ruggirello secured the fall. Adam Hall (Photo/Jon Malinowski)Though he was a Junior Nationals Freestyle runner-up to Cyler Sanderson last summer, Adam Hall of Idaho entered his 152-pound final as one of the biggest underdogs of the tournament. Jon Reader has been one of the best wrestlers in the nation regardless of weight class this year, starting with a preseason win over Division II NCAA champion Patrick Allibone and never letting up. At Senior Nationals, it was more of the same, as Reader notched three pins, a technical fall, a 10-0 major decision, and a controlled 5-1 win en route to the finals. By contrast, Hall struggled with scores of 12-8, 2-0, 1-0, and a 3-2 in double overtime. As the saying goes, that's why they wrestle the matches on the mat. Reader struck quickly with his patented "barrel roll" for a 2-0 lead. Hall escaped, and then barely managed to fight off another Reader takedown late in the first. Hall started down in the second, and managed an escape. Then the fireworks began. After escaping, Hall immediately shot in on a low single, seemingly catching Reader by surprise for a 4-2 lead. Reader struck back with a Granby Roll and immediately converted a single leg takedown of his own for a 5-4 lead, as order seemed to be restored. Reader opened the third period with an escape to extend his lead to 6-4. With about 30 seconds to go, Reader appeared to be tiring, and Hall blew through him with a double to knot the score at 6-6. A Reader escape made it 7-6. Hall wasted little time in shooting in. He appeared to be about to get the winning takedown, but Reader scrambled and managed to cling to a leg as Hall desperately tried to get behind him. It looked like Reader was going to be able to hold it off, but he literally seemed to "hit the wall" with two seconds to go and relinquished the leg as Hall went behind for the winning takedown, 8-7, in one of the best Senior Nationals matches I have ever seen. The theme for Bubba Jenkins of Virginia was "redemption." After missing state for the second year in a row for disciplinary reasons, Jenkins clearly came to Pittsburgh with an "ax to grind." Jenkins torched the field leading up to the finals: with two falls, a technical fall, a 14-4 major, and a 7-4 win over third-place finisher Josh Wilson of Utah. It appeared he might have his hands full in the finals with another Utah grappler, Nathaniel Holt of Utah. Holt knocked off highly regarded Travis Blasco of Blair Academy in the semifinals, preventing a Jenkins-Blasco rematch (won by Jenkins at the Beast of the East). However, Jenkins came out on fire with an almost immediate single-leg takedown and "dump" finish. He quickly followed that up with a breathtaking lift from a "claw" ride, putting Holt to his back and nearly securing the fall but settling for a 5-0 lead. Jenkins continued to simply overwhelm Holt, adding two more takedowns for a 9-2 lead midway through the match. With such a lead in the national finals, most would shut down their offense. However, Jenkins went for, of all things, a cement mixer … and nailed it for a five-point move. Holt was going nowhere, and the inevitable came at 3:21. Jenkins would have been leading 14-2 if not for the fall! Jenkins is another unsigned wrestler who could make a college wrestling coach very, very happy. Ryan Patrovich (Photo/Jon Malinowski)Perhaps the marquee match of the night on paper was Dave Rella versus Ryan Patrovich. Both two-time state champs in tough states, Rella was third at Junior Nationals in freestyle last summer, while Patrovich was runner-up, both at 160. Neither was seriously pushed up to the finals. In this match, both seemed reluctant to "pull the trigger" as they traded escapes for a 1-1 regulation score. The match went to double overtime, and it looked like Patrovich might be able to pull it off after he rode out Rella in a crab ride -- which took 15 seconds off the clock, and quickly pulled him back into a similar position after a restart. However, Rella "dug deep," and relying less on technique than hustle, wound up with a reversal in the last five seconds for the national title. Look for a rematch in Fargo. As great as the tournament was (as usual) there were, in my view, three huge errors. First, the consolation rounds amounted to little more than an endurance contest on Sunday morning. The wrestling started at 9:00 a.m. on Sunday, by 11:30, the 103's and 112's who started in the All-American round could have wrestled four matches. Wrestlers eventually need some time to regroup between bouts, replenish themselves (i.e. eat and drink water) especially at this level of competition. The wrestlers who started in the "All-American Round" were at a huge disadvantage as compared to those who made the semifinals and thus started in the consolation semifinals -- having already wrestled two matches in the previous 1-1.5 hours. The consolations were completed shortly after noon, leaving an unnecessarily long six hour break. Not only would it have been better for the wrestlers, but better for the fans as well since they could have watch more matches. Secondly, the Sophomore and Junior Nationals need to be done on a weekend rather than making it one long event. The action for these divisions started on Tuesday and concluded on Friday. With Monday being weigh-ins, this meant it was necessary for competitors to miss an entire week of school, very difficult considering they likely have already missed school for their state tournaments at the minimum. The sophomore event was a national championship in name only, with only five of the sophomores who entered ranked in the Rev Power Rankings Top 50 competing. Finally, and most importantly, this event simply cannot be held the same weekend as the Dapper Dan again. Not only did this event drain away at least one elite wrestler from each weight class, but it took nearly every top wrestler from the nation's top wrestling state, Pennsylvania, plus those who competed in the WPIAL versus Delaware undercard. With nearly all of the Pennsylvania stars not competing, the arena was shockingly empty. Whatever ego-driven agendas need to be put aside hopefully will be next year for the good of the sport.