InterMat Staff

STILLWATER, Okla. -- John Smith had needs to fill in his 2006 recruiting class with the departure of one of the most successful senior classes in school history, which won five individual championships, had nine All-American finishes and won four team titles; and he believes he met those needs with the signing of three high school seniors. Dakotah Simpson, Carl Hines and Landon Harris were all multiple state champions and the three wrestlers combined to go 121-1 during their senior years. Simpson and Hines are local recruits hailing from Cushing and Bristow, respectively, while Harris will come to Stillwater from Sugar City, Idaho. Simpson was a three-time state champion at Cushing High School wrestling in three different weight classes over his career. Simpson went 40-1 in the 152-pound weight class on the way to his third state title. Hines went a perfect 39-0 at Bristow High School. He has won the last two state championships at 215 pounds. Hines is currently ranked seventh in his weight class by Amateur Wrestling News. Harris is the fifth-ranked heavyweight in the country according to Amateur Wrestling News. He is a two-time state champion in Idaho and has a career record of 120-5. Harris has posted an 11-1 record with 11 falls in the state tournament over the last three years. The last recruit Smith signed out of Idaho was Jake Rosholt who went on to be a three-time NCAA champion. The three new recruits will join the five the Cowboys signed in November and will be on campus in the fall of 2006.

Charlottesville, VA -- Steve Garland, a former All-American at the University of Virginia, has been named the head wrestling coach, as announced by Director of Athletics Craig Littlepage today. Garland has served the last six seasons as an assistant coach at Cornell University, where he helped the Big Red to four consecutive top-11 finishes at the NCAA Championships. He spent the last four seasons as the top assistant under 2005 NCAA Coach of the Year, Rob Koll. Steve Garland"I've learned important things about Steve Garland from those in the college wrestling community," Littlepage said. "The outstanding work he did as Cornell University's assistant coach is a major reason why he is the best fit for UVa wrestling at this time. Cornell built a nationally-ranked program and Coach Garland was a big part of the program's development. We are fortunate that in addition to the experience he gained there, he is also one of our own and knows the UVa wrestling community as well as anyone. I anticipate that Virginia's program will take off and achieve great success under Coach Garland." Over the past six years, Garland has helped the Cornell wrestling program move into the national spotlight. He has coached 17 All-Americans, four NCAA Finalists and 46 NCAA qualifiers. "I am humbled by the support of the administration and the alumni of the University of Virginia wrestling program," Garland said. "This is an incredible opportunity and something that I have dreamed about since beginning my coaching career in 2000. As a graduate of the University of Virginia, I have a genuine love for the University and an intense desire to help the wrestling program become one of the top programs in the nation. "For the past six years, I have been a part of a system that has consistently produced successful wrestlers at the national level under the direction of one of the best coaches in the country in Rob Koll. I feel very confident that I can implement many facets of this system at the University of Virginia." The Cornell wrestling team has finished in the top five at the NCAA Championships two years in a row and have finished in the top 11 at the NCAA Tournament for four straight years. The Big Red won five of the last six Ivy League titles. He has worked closely with and been integral in the development of four-time All-American (2001-05) and two-time NCAA Champion Travis Lee and true freshman NCAA finalist Troy Nickerson (2006). As the recruiting coordinator the last four years, he has helped bring in two top-five recruiting classes, which included three high school national champions, four junior national champions and numerous state champions. His 2005-06 class was ranked second nationally and included the No. 1 recruits at their weight classes in Nickerson (125 pounds) and Adam Frey (130 pounds). Garland, a 2000 Virginia graduate, was a three-time Atlantic Coast Conference finalist and a winner of the ACC Wrestling Tournament Championship at 125 pounds in 1997. He qualified for the NCAA tournament in each of his three years of competition. At the 2000 NCAA tournament, Garland earned All-America honors, falling in the national title match after he upset the top seed, Jody Strittmatter of Iowa, 9-7 in overtime. Garland still ranks sixth all-time in UVa career wins (91). In 2000, he was also named the ACC Wrestler of the Year. In his career, he compiled 93 wins, including a 30-5 mark during his senior season, when he competed in the NWCA All-Star meet. Garland (28) and his wife, English, are expecting their first child this spring.

Tommy Rowlands has quickly become the face of Ohio State wrestling. He finished his collegiate career in 2004 as the most decorated wrestler in Ohio State history after winning two NCAA titles and earning four All-American medals. Tommy RowlandsAs an international competitor in freestyle, Rowlands has fared well at many prestigious world-level events. He won a gold medal at the 2005 World University Games in Turkey. In 2004, he won both the New York AC Christmas International and Sunkist Kids International events. He has been runner-up at both the U.S. Nationals and World Team Trials. Now, after the recent retirement of longtime Ohio State coach Russ Hellickson, Rowlands is one of four finalists for the coveted Ohio State head coaching position. RevWrestling.com's Andrew Hipps recently caught up with Rowlands to discuss why he believes his youth is a positive as he hopes to become Ohio State's next head coach, his thoughts on his performance at U.S. Nationals, his rivalry with Steve Mocco, his experience in Real Pro Wrestling, and what lies ahead for the former Buckeye star. You have obviously built a relationship with Russ Hellickson over the years. Were you surprised that he retired after this last season? Or was this something that had been discussed for a while? Rowlands: Russ is obviously a legend of the sport and I think he's going to have a great retirement. It's something that has been on his mind for some time. I think he'll be happy in the long run with everything that happened. Do you know if he has plans to stay involved with wrestling? Rowlands: Russ is just enjoying retirement right now. He went to Italy with his wife. He's up at his lake house in Wisconsin. I don't think he's really thought much past what he's doing right now. It has been widely discussed that you're one of four finalists for the Ohio State head job. Can you confirm that? Rowlands: Yeah, I'm interviewing Friday. What is the timetable, if you know, on when you expect the Ohio State administration to make a decision? Rowlands: I would assume that the decision will be made in the next two weeks. I'm just going to play devil's advocate. Many people across the country believe that you can be a successful head coach in a big time program right now. But still there others out there who say Tommy Rowlands is too young, he doesn't have the experience. How would you respond to that? Rowlands: Well, I consider my youth to be a positive. The greatest collegiate coaches ever started at a young age -- John Smith, Dan Gable, Myron Roderick. I feel like it's a young man's game. My youth is a positive. I can maintain a physical involvement with the athletes. Even though I am young and don't have any head coaching experience, I feel like I have enough of a passion for Ohio State wrestling to not let any potential roadblocks stand in the way of me helping our program be as successful as it can be. I've been bound to this program. I grew up eight miles from Ohio Stadium. I've dedicated my adult wrestling career to helping make Ohio State national champions. Unfortunately, we've come up short. But I would like to continue that as the head coach. And I feel like I have the ability to do it. I wouldn't apply and set the kids back on the team right now if I didn't think I was ready to make an impact immediately. Many people consider Ohio State to be a potential goldmine with a lot of potential. What makes the wrestling program so enticing for head coaches across the country? Rowlands: I think Ohio high school wrestling is arguably one of the best youth wrestling states in the entire country. And the only reason that it's an argument is because of our next door neighbor, Pennsylvania. So you're right in the middle of the hotbed for recruiting, great wrestling talent. Ohio State Athletics has the largest athletic budget in the country. We have great resources. It's a great haven for wrestling. I don't think there's any other program that has more potential for success than Ohio State. You placed third last weekend at the U.S. Nationals in Las Vegas. How would you asses your overall performance? Rowlands: I don't think I was overly happy with my performance. Obviously, what's been going on the past two or three weeks has been somewhat of a distraction, and one that I've accepted because I'm willing to move on and be the head coach if that opportunity presents itself. But I feel like if I don't get the job, I'll have a clear head for the World Team Trials and I'll accomplish my goal of making the team and competing in the World Championships. It's something that I've been training for the past two years. And I certainly won't have a problem continuing that dream if I'm not the head coach. You had some great battles with Steve Mocco during your collegiate career. What was the biggest difference you noticed this time compared to the last time you met him in college? Tommy Rowlands and Steve Mocco have battled numerous times throughout their careers (Photo/John Sachs).Rowlands: There was a closer size difference and strength difference. I would say that Mocco still has the advantage strength-wise and size-wise. I was surprised by the little variance between us in size. I think as a result, I didn't move as much as I should … because I wasn't getting pushed all over the mat like I was used to. I think, instead of that being a positive for me, it was a negative because I was overly comfortable with just standing there with him. That was mistake that I made. When did you make the decision to move up from 211 pounds to heavyweight? And what were the main reasons for your move up in weight? Rowlands: I went to the University World Championships in late August. I had been cutting weight throughout the year at the Yarygin and the U.S. Open, things like that. The cut was very, very difficult for me. It was a constant effort for me to maintain my weight at 240. That was a battle to just stay at that weight to be within striking distance of making 211. The cut in Turkey for the University World Championships in August was just absolutely insane. I had a lot of people who are close to me and my career, and a lot of people who I really respect in the wrestling community, tell me that I needed to go up. I'm just as competitive, if not more, at the weight class. I have more upside. And my speed can be utilized as more of an advantage at the heavyweight weight class. Obviously, I've been able to lead a better lifestyle. I've been able to focus entirely on my training, which was something that I wasn't used to with cutting the weight. I've never cut weight my entire life, and although I truly believe I'm mentally tough enough to get the weight down, it's not a lifestyle that I became accustomed to. I think the guys who suck a lot of weight on the international level had been doing it all through college and possibly all through high school. So it's a lifestyle they're accustomed to. I think to have the focus you need to be an Olympic champion, you need to be just tunnel vision on your goals. And I think at the heavyweight weight class, I enable myself to do that. Overall, how would you assess the strength of the current group freestyle heavyweights in the United States? Rowlands: I think that it's a great group of heavyweights. I think whoever represents our country is going to be a strong contender for the world title, and should be a medalist at the very least. I think there are plenty of us who are capable of doing that. Hopefully, I'm our representative -- unless I'm to be the head coach at Ohio State where I'd have to forfeit that dream and pickup the new one with Ohio State wrestling. Talk about your current training situation. Where are you working out? And who are your main workout partners? Rowlands: I train with J.D. Bergman, Ross Thatcher, Kirk Nail, and Mitch Clark. I spend a lot of time at the Olympic Training Center. I've also been to Stanford three times to train with Kerry McCoy. I've basically made myself available to the best training environment that I can possibly be in. I think the best environment out there right now for someone who wants to be an Olympic champion is to be at the Olympic Training Center. It's an environment that's conducive to freestyle. You've got world-class coaches who wake up every morning who are paid to worry about you and your development. And If I were to continue my career, that's certainly a place that I think I'm going to have to head. What area of your wrestling do you think you've improved the most since your collegiate career ended? Tommy RowlandsRowlands: Well, I think the area that I've improved the most is still the area that I need to improve more in. In terms of match strategy and match awareness, I've become better at. I still think it's my main area of concentration. At the international level, it's a huge, huge strategy game. You need to have a plan with each opponent. It's something that I've never really worried too much about or possessed in college. I just went out there and threw in the kitchen sink and hoped for the best. And it actually worked out. But at the international level, there are too many good wrestlers, too many smart wrestlers. You have to have a plan. I think that I've improved on that, but at the same time, there's much, much more room for improvement on that end. You finished second in Real Pro Wrestling's Season One. How would you describe your experience? Rowlands: I thought RPW was a great thing, great for wrestling. Anytime you can get wrestling into the mainstream media, I think it's going to be great for the sport. This is certainly something that I hope continues to grow into Season Two in the fall. And I think it's a good thing. So do you plan to compete in Season Two? Rowlands: If I continue my career as a competitive wrestler, I will definitely be part of RPW. What are your competitive wrestling goals, assuming that you're still competing, both short term and long term? Rowlands: Short term is to make the U.S. World Team in May and compete for the world title at the end of September. Long term, I want to be an Olympic champion in 2008. Hypothetical: Tommy Rowlands wins the 2008 Olympic gold medal in Beijing. Is he done competing? Rowlands: I'm pretty certain that it would be over. I know a lot of people have continued their careers as Olympic champions and world champions, and that's very admirable, but to me it's about reaching the pinnacle of the sport. Once I've done that, I think I'd like to focus on other things.

Sandy, Utah -- Mountain Top Wrestling Club traveled to Price to compete in the USA Wrestling Utah State Championships in freestyle and Greco-Roman wrestling, held April 7-8, 2006, at Carbon High School. Thirty-seven wrestlers took away 27 awards in freestyle; 23 athletes in Greco-Roman took away 22 awards. This was our best showing at state yet,_ said Coach Bill Kilpack (III). We didn't have as many champions as we have a couple times in the past, but we had a lot who came in with silvers, and that's impressive. We had some firest-year wrestlers who really stepped it up, and some others who really wrestled their guts out with some tough competition. We're very proud of them." Coming away with State Championships in freestyle were five wrestlers: Tanner Orton of West Jordan, Flyweight (ages 6 and Under) 35 lbs.; Cole Moody of West Jordan, Bantam (ages 7 and 8) 50 lbs.; Helaman Suesue of Salt Lake City, Bantam 65 lbs.; Tyler Jensen of West Valley City, Novice (ages 11 and 12) 60 lbs.; Nick Pappas of Taylorsville, Schoolboy (ages 13 and 14) 125 lbs. For Orton, this was his second state title, coming at the end of a second consecutive year undefeated in Utah. For Suesue, this was also a second consecutive state championship. For Jensen, this was an apt conclusion to a tournament where he beat every opponent by pin or technical superiority (gaining a six-point lead in two of three rounds). Winning silver medals in freestyle were five wrestlers: Skylar Orton of West Jordan, Bantam 45 lbs.; Beau McRae of South Jordan, Bantam 50 lbs.; Kyler Machan of West Jordan, Novice 60 lbs.; Matthew Findlay of Draper, Novice 65 lbs.; and Zayne Sayers of Sandy, Novice 130 lbs. Earning bronze medals in freestyle were six athletes: Jordan McRae of South Jordan, Midget 55 lbs.; Tayler Johnson of Draper, Midget (ages 9 and 10) 65 lbs.; Clark Hinton of West Jordan, Midget 80 lbs.; Wesly Orton of West Jordan, Novice 65 lbs.; Daniel Bactista of Kaysville, Schoolboy 85 lbs.; and Jessica Osborne of Salt Lake City, Junior (ages 17 and 18) 112 lbs. Taking fourth-place bronze medals in freestyle were four wrestlers: Devin Johnson of Draper, Bantam 45 lbs.; Ajax Revels of Sandy, Bantam 60 lbs.; Caden Maynes of West Jordan, Midget 50 lbs.; Tyler Schwendiman of South Jordan, Midget 55 lbs.; and Addison Day of Sandy, Midget 60 lbs. Garnering fifth-place medals were five athletes: Garrick Kilpack of Sandy, Flyweight 40 lbs.; Justin Schwendiman of West Jordan, Novice 60 lbs.; William Kilpack of Sandy, Novice 80 lbs.; Bryce Lindsey of Clearfield, Cadet (ages 15 and 16) 125 lbs.; and Jordan Layton of Clearfield, Cadet 145 lbs. Earning sixth-place medals were two wrestlers: Bradley Findlay of Draper, Bantam 55 lbs.; and Jordan Drage of Taylorsville, Schoolboy 100 lbs. In Greco-Roman, two State Champions were crowned: Tyler Jensen, Novice 60 lbs. (who also won state titles in freestyle and in folkstyle at the 4A/5A Junior High State Championships last January); and Jessica Osborne, Junior 112 lbs. Winning silvers in Greco-Roman were 10 athletes: Caden Maynes, Midget 50 lbs.; Tyler Schwendiman, Midget 55 lbs.; Tayler Johnson, Midget 65 lbs.; Kyler Machan, Novice 60 lbs.; Matthew Findlay, Novice 65 lbs.; William Kilpack, Novice 80 lbs.; Zayne Sayers, Novice 130 lbs.; Nick Pappas, Schoolboy 125 lbs.; Travis McRae of South Jordan, Cadet 125 lbs.; and Jordan Layton of Clearfield, Cadet 145 lbs. Winning bronze in Greco-Roman were five athletes: Jordan McRae, Midget 55 lbs.; Addison Day, Midget 60 lbs.; Justin Schwendiman, Novice 60 lbs.; Wesly Orton, Novice 65 lbs.; and Daniel Bactista, Schoolboy 85 lbs. Three wrestlers earned fourth-place bronze medals in Greco-Roman: Austin Maynes of West Jordan, Novice 65 lbs.; Jordan Drage, Schoolboy 100 lbs.; and Devin Sayers of Sandy, Schoolboy 165 lbs. Two athletes earned fifth-place bronze medals in Greco-Roman: Brayden Schwendiman of South Jordan, Novice 65 lbs.; and Bryce Lindsey, Cadet 125 lbs. Also competing in the tournament in both styles was Jacob Rutledge of Sandy, Cadet 105 lbs. Also competing in the freestyle tournament were brothers Jefferson and Jordan Harbaugh of South Jordan, Jefferson in Flyweight 40 lbs., and Jordan in Bantam 45 lbs.; Braden Hensen of Salt Lake City, Flyweight 40 lbs.; brothers Jed and Matthew Lee of Draper, Jed in Flyweight 40 lbs., Matthew in Midget 55 lbs.; Austin Maynes, Novice 65 lbs.; Brayden Schwendiman, Novice 65 lbs.; and Devin Sayers, Schoolboy 165 lbs. "This was an exciting state tournament for the kids," said Coach Bill Kilpack (Jr.). "The character showed on the mat was outstanding, showing sportsmanship whether they won or lost. There's a good group of wrestlers that made the trip to price, both on and off the mat." Mountain Top Wrestling Club is a nonprofit 501(c)3 corporation dedicated to providing a venue for individuals to learn, develop and refine their athletic skills and abilities; and teaching the rules and regulations of freestyle, folkstyle and Greco-Roman wrestling. It is open to male and female athletes ages four and older who live anywhere in the State of Utah. Practices are held three days a week from 6_7:30 p.m. at Jordan High School. For more information, call 641-9832, e-mail coach@mountaintopwrestling.com or visit them on the Worldwide Web at www.mountaintopwrestling.com.

TEMPE, Ariz. -- The Arizona State University recently signed a pair of high school standouts to National Letters of Intent, Head Coach Thom Ortiz announced Tuesday. Todd Schavrien of Poway, Calif., and Randel Aleman of Las Vegas will pursue their respective academic and collegiate wrestling careers with the Sun Devils in time for the start of the 2006-07 season. "Todd and Randel are great additions to our team," Ortiz said. "We expect great things from them in the future as Arizona State shoots for a national title. Their experience and success at the high school level has provided them a solid background on which we look to build. We hope to see both men continue to excel as they represent our program and help us remain on top of the Pac-10 standings." Aleman comes to Tempe after four outstanding years at Cimarron-Memorial High School in Las Vegas where he not only helped his team win four-consecutive state championships, but also become the first wrestler in CMHS history to win four individual state crowns. As a senior, Aleman won the 145 pound crown after moving up in weight all four years he competed. He opened his career with the 103 title as a freshman before taking the 112 and 130 crowns. Schavrien also comes from a solid background of high school success after competing for Poway High School, one of the top programs in the state of California. As a senior, Schavrien capped an undefeated 46-0 record by winning the 125 pound championship as he scored two falls, one tech fall and two major decisions en route to his title. The first PHS wrestler to ever go undefeated in a season, he also helped his team finish second overall after winning the 2005 state title. The San Diego Region Athlete of the Year, Schavrien capped his prep career by placing fourth at the High School Senior Nationals. Aleman and Schavrien are the fourth and fifth members of this year's signing class. They join Shawn Jones (Snake River, Idaho), David Green (Oviedo, Fla.) and Kenny Lester (Oviedo, Fla.), who signed with the program in November. Jones completed his high school career as a four-time state champion and posted a career record of 148-10. Green and Lester helped Oviedo High School to the state team title while both reached the finals of their respective weights. Green captured his third state title in a row to finish his career at 157-22 while Lester placed second to cap his career with a record of 182-26.

CORVALLIS, Ore. -- Jim Zalesky was formally introduced as the new head coach of Oregon State's wrestling team Tuesday afternoon at a news conference at Valley Football Center. Zalesky, who coached three national championship teams while at Iowa, was greeted by close to 100 Beaver fans and wrestlers as he and OSU Director of Athletics Bob De Carolis answered questions from reporters and the public. Zalesky had been officially named as OSU's new coach on Friday, but Tuesday was the first chance for him to meet with OSU athletic staff, alumni, fans and reporters. Zalesky will also be greeted by Portland-area fans at a reception Tuesday from 6-8 p.m. at Hayden's Lakefront Grill in Tualatin; the event is open to the public. Zalesky compiled a 127-34 dual meet record at the University of Iowa, serving as head coach from the 1997-98 season through the 2005-06 season; he was twice named National Coach of the Year. His teams won NCAA titles in 1998, 1999 and 2000, and the Hawkeyes finished second in 2001 and 2004. Zalesky's teams captured three Big Ten team titles and his wrestlers won 10 NCAA individual titles and 45 All-American honors. Zalesky wrestled for Iowa in the early 1980s and was a four-time All-American and three-time NCAA champion at 158 pounds, ending his Hawkeye career with an 89-match winning streak. The Amateur Wrestling News named him the Wrestler of the Decade for the 1980s. Zalesky's coaching career also includes three years as an assistant coach at Minnesota and seven seasons as an assistant under legendary Iowa coach Dan Gable. As an assistant at Iowa, Zalesky was named the National Wrestling Coaches Association Assistant Coach of the Year twice. Oregon State's hiring of Zalesky links one of wrestling's winningest coaches with one of the sport's winningest traditions. The Beavers rank third in all-time dual meet victories with an 895-286-26 mark dating back to 1909. OSU has won 44 team conference championships and 200 individual conference titles; the Beavers have placed in the top 10 at the NCAA Championships 18 times; and OSU wrestlers have earned 81 All-America honors, including 12 national titles. In the pre-NCAA Championships era, Oregon State won the 1926 team national title at the Amateur Athletic Association meet. The transcript of Tuesday's news conference: BOB De CAROLIS "It's another great day to be a Beaver, and we're very excited about this day. Before I get into comments about our new coach, I want to thank Joe Wells for 14 years of exemplary service to the University. He did a great job, not just in running the program from a competitive nature but also running a clean program and on academically how well his kids did. He's leaving the program in good shape with a good nucleus going forward, and that's something we talked about to all the candidates - this wasn't a program in disrepair, we just needed to take it up a notch. So I want to thank Joe publicly for that." "As far as our new head coach, what can you say? A three-time national champ as a competitor, three championship rings as a coach. He brings a great legacy to Oregon State with his background and we're hopeful that translates, as I said before, into taking it to the next level. Our goal is to be a dominant force in the Pac-10; once we're a dominant force in the Pac-10, that should get us into the top 10 or 12 in the country. Once you're there, it's just a matter of things breaking right to where you can vie for a national championship and that's our goal. So we're very excited about this day, and we're very excited about our new head wrestling coach, Jim Zalesky." JIM ZALESKY "First of all, I'd like to thank Bob for hiring me. I really appreciate the opportunity to be hear. My family is looking forward to being part of the Oregon State family and the Corvallis community - that was a big sell for us when we came here. As far as coaching, I always shoot for the top; I always shot for the top as a competitor and that's my goal as a coach. I believe in shooting to be No. 1, that's what you do it about. You do it the right way, you work hard, and if you work hard enough, you're going to have success. I'm looking forward to the opportunity to be here, I'm looking forward to meeting the team and getting going there, to getting going recruiting-wise, and to meeting everybody in the wrestling community here. "Again, I'm excited to be here. Two weeks ago when I got a call from Oregon State, it really made my day and so I'm really looking forward to being here and to having my family move here." (What style of wrestling will you bring to Oregon State?) "I believe the name of the game in wrestling is to pin a guy; if you're out there, that's the ultimate goal, to pin your opponent, in wrestling. That's what we'll stress, my coaching staff and I. I stress wrestling for a seven-minute match; it's seven minutes and you've got to be aggressive. If you want to put people in the stands, you've got to put on a display of action. That's how I wrestled and that's how I coach. We're not going to lose because we're not in shape, we're not going to lose because we didn't work hard enough. Those are things we can control, and I'm going to expect my team to be in great shape." (You're coming from one of the most prestigious programs in the country. Do you foresee something like that happening here?) "It can happen anywwhere, if you work hard enough. My goal is to get as many people involved as possible - not just the coaching staff, not just the athletic department, but outside groups, booster groups. All those things are a key in having a great program." (Talk about the program you're taking over - what do you know about it and the shape it's in?) "Actually, this was probably one of my final college choices, was Oregon State University. (Former OSU head coach) Dale Thomas actually recruited me. I know a lot about Dale Thomas and what he's done here, and what Joe Wells has done after that. It's got great tradition. It's always been known as good wrestling. I think it's got a good foundation; you've just got to build up on it. As Bob said, Joe Wells did a great job here. You've got a good foundation coming back now it's just time to build up on it and raise expectations." (Are there plans to bring any of your staff from Iowa here?) "Troy Steiner was my head assistant and he's going to come out and look at it; I think he's been here before. Some people might know him, I think he and his brother Terry were for a year or two years (as assistant coaches). He's going to come out and look at it Thursday, and depending on what he does, we'll go from there. I'm going to build a staff that works together. Just like me, they've got to work hard and put the time in. I told the team, I'll be here at 6 in the morning if you want to be here at 6 in the morning to work out; I'll be at midnight if you want to work out at midnight. That's just what I expect of my coaches and of myself." (Can you tell us in a nutshell why you think you were let go at Iowa?) "I don't know if a nutshell is big enough. I don't know. I think they wanted me to take the Oregon State program." (Can you tell us what the facilities were at Iowa, and what the difference is at OSU, and what facilities you hope to see here?) "I know on the drawing board, they're talking about building a new wrestling room, but right now it doesn't matter what kind of facility is - it's what you put into it. You can have a weight room that looks real good, but if nobody goes in there to lift weights, that weight room really isn't doing anybody any good. To me, the room doesn't really matter, what shape or size it is, as long as it's got wrestling mats in it. It's the effort you put in in that wrestling room, that's the key to it. Yeah, it'd be nice to have a great-looking facility for recruits coming in, but to me that's all show. It's what you do in the wrestling room that's going to make the difference. And Bob said he's going to build a new one anyway, by next year, so I believed him. (laughter)" (Talk about the pressures at Iowa and how disappointed you were to be let go there) "I think it's the expectations. You want to have guys on the team have the expectation to be national champions. At Iowa, I had expectations - not put on me, but of myself to win nationals every year. That was my expectation. Pressure, people say you come out to Oregon State and there will be no pressure on you, I don't believe in that - I want pressure. If you don't have pressure on you, you're not fighting for the top spot, it means you're down below. I want pressure; I'll put pressure on myself and I'll put pressure on the guys beneath me. If there's no pressure on you, you're not where you want to be." (Does the fact that you were just let go from a program give you even more motivation?) "You always need motivation. I'm a pretty motivated individual anyway, but you can always use more motivation and sometimes … I really haven't said much about the Iowa job and I'm not going to say much about it. A Chinese proverb, my mom said, ‘If you don't have anything good to say about something or somebody, don't say anything.' That's kind of my comment about that. But I always think you need motivation, more motivation, keep that inside of you and let it motivate me here. I just look at it as adding fuel to the fire sometimes." (Is there time for you to go out and recruit and sign someone before this signing period ends?) "Yeah, there is. Actually, I'm going on the road tomorrow, so we'll see. There are some kids calling who are interested, I think there are some people looking at the effort Oregon State is putting into it, the resource they're putting into it, and they're excited to join and maybe be part of this. That's something you look for - guys who are excited about joining something, looking at something and building something, and being a part of it." (A few years ago, Oregon State hosted the regional Olympic trials for Greco-Roman and Freestyle. Can we do that again, and what's involved?) "You can do that again. You have to put a bid in for it for USA Wrestling; they look for people to have that event. Really, you just have to put a bid in for that event. But it's good exposure to the area if you can get it here; it's good exposure to young guys looking at Oregon State." (The Midwest and the East have an advantage in recruiting just by population density. How can that be dealt with?) "I think in this recruiting base, I look and there are good kids out here; there are good kids everywhere. It's just getting them in the right environment and the right program and pushing the right buttons and working hard. I believe there are kids in Oregon that can beat kids in Iowa, and there's good wrestling in Washington, good wrestling in Idaho, Montana, Utah, California - you can get good kids in this area and be the best, I believe that." (OSU's fan base has dwindled and wrestling has gone to free admission. What's your position on charging for admission or giving it away?) "Oh, I think we'll charge next year. (laughter) It's going to be a good product; hopefully we can make some money too, not just spend it." De CAROLIS "Besides being the head wrestling coach, he's also going to take on the role of being business manager. Before we go any further, I'd be remiss if I didn't thank Todd Stansbury and Marianne Vydra, who were vital in the search process and were in all the interviews. They did a great job, so I want to make sure I recognize them." ZALESKY (Are you going to concentrate on Oregon kids now, or the Northwest, or … ) "I think your backbone is always going to be in Oregon. But you look at Oregon, Washington, the Northwest. You look at the Northwest, you look at kids that want to be part of your program. I look for a certain style. I want kids who wrestle hard, and I think that starts in high school; you look at those kids in high school and how they wrestle and you take them to another level when they get here. If they stand around in high school, they're probably going to stand around in college, so I want guys who are aggressive in high school. Those guys are easier to coach, and that's our style." (Have you thought about assistant coaches and putting a staff together?) "Troy Steiner is coming out. My experience at Iowa is that you want to hire your first coach first and then go from there. But we're going to have a bigger guy coach, and a lighter-weight coach, a middle-weight coach, and that way I can fish all the time (laughter). No, but we're going to get coaches who can work with the whole team. That's important for a staff."

Oskaloosa, Iowa -- William Penn University wrestling coach Gary Garvis has announced the signing of Kevin Jury to a National Letter of Intent to attend the University in the fall and compete for the wrestling program. Jury, the son of Ken and Cindy Jury, is from El Paso, Texas, where he competed at Americas High School under his father Ken, the head wrestling coach. As a prep, he owned a 144-23 record, including being a three-time placer at the Texas state tournament. Jury capped off an astounding prep career with a state championship at 125 pounds this past winter, owning a 42-1 record, including 31 pins. In the finals, Jury defeated Josh Sandoval of Coleville Heritage High School, a previously unbeaten wrestler who was ranked #24 nationally, 13-5. Another notable victory during his senior campaign came against El Reno High School's (Okla.) Adam Delong, who was ranked #14 in the nation, winning 9-5. Delong was also a 2006 state champion at 125 pounds. Throughout the duration of his final prep season, Jury was also named Most Outstanding Wrestler on four occasions, including earning the distinction at the Texas state tournament. Jury was also a state runner-up as a junior (125) and a fifth-place finisher as a sophomore (119). A three-year team captain, he gained a state alternate berth as a freshman as well. Jury is also recognized nationally as a top grappler, being ranked #25 by Wrestling USA Magazine. In addition to that ranking, he was also listed as one of the top ten wrestling recruits in Texas this past November by Inside Texas Wrestling. He most recently competed at the National High School Coaches' Association Senior Nationals, where he finished with a 2-2 record. "Kevin is a great catch and we feel he has the ability to carry on our tradition of previous 125-pound All-Americans," Garvis said. "Kevin is from the same town as former two-time All-American Fidel Gonzalez. In fact, Fidel assisted in the recruitment of Kevin." The William Penn wrestling program has flourished since joining the NAIA in 2001-2002, including the boasting of 82 national qualifiers and 20 All-Americans. The Statesmen also owned the nation's longest dual-meet winning streak of 54 victories in a row, a streak that spanned over four years (January 2001-December 2005).

CORVALLIS, Ore. -- Tony Hook earned Oregon State's Outstanding Wrestler Award for the 2006 season when the Beavers held their annual wrestling banquet recently. Others honors included Jeremy Larson earning both the Beaver Award for Leadership and the Strength and Conditioning "BLAST" Award; Kyle Larson earning the Chad Flack Memorial Award for Most Improved Wrestler; Dan Brascetta earning the Most Promising Freshman Award; and Kyle Bressler earning the Academic Achievement Award. Hook (Sandpoint, Ida./Sandpoint HS), a senior 157-pounder, finished the season with a record of 26-10 with five pins. He placed third in the Pacific-10 Championships; at the NCAA Championships, he was one victory away from earning All-America honors. Jeremy Larson (Hermiston, Ore./Hermiston HS), a junior 174-pounder, was 27-11 with one pin. He placed second in the Pac-10 Championships and qualified for the NCAA Championships. Kyle Larson (Hermiston, Ore./Hermiston HS), a sophomore 141-pounder, had a 26-7 record with four pins. He placed third in the Pac-10 and qualified for the NCAA Championships after redshirting the previous season. Brascetta (Aurora, Colo./Grandview HS) is a 149-pounder who redshirted this season, wrestling in several tournaments as an unattached competitor. Bressler (Federal Way, Wash./Decatur HS), a freshman 184-pounder, is majoring in Construction Engineering Management and has a 3.89 grade point average.

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. -- Freshman Matt Coughlin took home the 163-pound FILA Junior Freestyle title at the 2006 U.S. National Wrestling Championships in Las Vegas, Nev., on April 12-15. Coughlin was as one of four Hoosiers to enter the competition, as freshman Angel Escobedo also placed second at 132 pounds. The competition, which brings together the top junior talent from around the country, is an opening event for the FILA World Championships, as wrestlers compete to qualify for the FILA Junior National team. Coughlin, who is the top pick for the team, must first undergo training camp on June 4-10, where he will wrestle against the champion of the second mini-tournament before the final grappler is chosen for the team. Escobedo also still has one more chance to punch his ticket on the team, as the second mini-tournament on June 4-10 will give the IU freshman a chance to grapple back into the final team spot. Escobedo finished second behind 2006 All-American Coleman Scott (Oklahoma State) at the event. Before losing in the finals, Escobedo had only dropped one period on his way to the finals. Also having an impressive showing were freshmen Trevor Perry and Scott Kelley. While neither of the Hoosier grapplers placed, both faced tough fields filled with 2006 NCAA qualifiers. Perry made it to the quarterfinals before falling to the eventual champion at 185 pounds, while Kelley competed at 132 pounds. For complete results of the 2006 US Nationals, visit www.themat.com.

GOLDEN, Colo. -- Colorado School of Mines Head Wrestling Coach Steve Kimpel announced the signing of three State Champions to National Letters of Intent on Monday afternoon. This marks the most successful recruiting class in Kimpel's four years as head coach at CSM. Leading the class is high school All-American Goeff Meng from Monarch High School. Meng, who finished eighth at the Senior Nationals in March, recorded a 125-9 career prep record and finished third and second before winning the 5A Colorado High School State Championship in 2006. Meng will wrestle at 125 pounds for the Orediggers. Oklahoma's Brennen Knerr also committed to CSM and will likely wrestle at 197 pounds. Knerr, a two-time state placewinner from Norman High School, captured the 215 pound state championship and was named the Outstanding Wrestling in the Oklahoma 5A division. During his senior season he recorded a 38-0 record with 30 pins. State Champion Eric Brennan from Bear Creek High School completes the trio of champions. Brennan won the 160-pound 5A championship in 2006 to add to a state Greco-Roman championship and a second-place finish in freestyle in 2005. Completing the recruiting class for this season are Bobby Strain from Arapaho High School, a two-time high school state placewinner who finished third at 215 pounds in 2006, and Adam Symonds from Platte Valley High School. Symonds, a four-time state medalist in the 3A division was second in 2006 at 145 pounds. "We are extremely pleased with the quality of athletes we have brought into the program," said Kimpel. "Many of our recruits have had several college opportunities, but they picked Mines because of the quality of education and because of the training partners they will have in the wrestling room. For the first time since I can remember, we will have at least one state champion at eight of the 10 weight classes. This would not have been possible without the had work of our assistant coaches and the confidence of area high school coaches."

Anthony Robles, a standout high school wrestler for Mesa High School in Arizona, will throw out the first pitch at Thursday's Major League Baseball game between the San Francisco Giants and Arizona Diamondbacks at Bank One Ballpark in Phoenix, Arizona. The game is scheduled to begin at 6:40 p.m. MST. Robles, who was born without his right leg, capped off a stellar high school career last month by winning the National High School Coaches Association (NHSCA) Senior Nationals title at 112 pounds with a 9-1 victory in the finals. He became the first disabled wrestler to win a title in the event's history. Anthony RoblesRobles finished his senior campaign with a perfect 53-0 record. For his career, he posted a 131-15 record and won two Arizona state titles. Robles compiled a 96-0 mark over his final two seasons. He also led Mesa High to its second state wrestling title, as the team captured the first state dual team title. He was named the Most Outstanding Wrestler in Class 5A at the Arizona State Wrestling Championships. He was also named Wrestler of the Year by the Arizona Republic. He is ranked as the 28th best high school senior in the country by RevWrestling.com. Robles plans to wrestle in college, but has not yet committed to a program. He will major in either business or physical therapy. "I think God gave me a gift by only giving me one leg," Robles said after winning his national title last month. "Other people may not see it that way, but I do."

Las Vegas, Nev. -- Former Iowa State three-time All-American and national champion Zach Roberson defeated defending 60 kg. freestyle champion Michael Lightner, 4-0, 1-3, 1-0, to take home the U.S. Senior Nationals freestyle title at 60 kg. Saturday night at the Las Vegas Convention Center. 2006 NCAA champion and three-time All-American Nate Gallick placed third at 60 kg. by defeating Mike Zadick, 3-1, 0-2, 3-0. Former assistant head coach Chris Bono, now at Tennessee-Chattanooga, won his second straight U.S. Nationals 66 kg. title. Former Iowa State four-time All-American and 2002 NCAA champion Joe Heskett, an assistant coach at Cal Poly, finished fourth at 74 kg. Roberson, Gallick, Bono and Heskett advanced to the World Team Trials in Sioux City at the Tyson Events Center May 27-28. Roberson, who placed third at last year's U.S. Nationals and fourth at the 2005 World Team Trials in Ames, defeated his first opponent Ben Zwaschka by a 6-0, 6-0 technical fall. Roberson then met former Iowa 133-pound national champion Cliff Moore and downed the former Hawkeye, 1-0, 7-0. In the semifinals Roberson defeated Mike Zadick, another former Hawkeye, and faced Lightner, a 2005 World Team member in the finals. Gallick fell victim by decision to Lightner, a former Oklahoma four-time All-American and 2001 NCAA champion. Gallick was the runner-up at the 2005 U.S. Nationals and was second at the World Team Trials to Lightner. Gallick downed Penn State 2004 NCAA runner-up Josh Moore in his second-round bout before running into Lightner. Gallick bounced back and beat Moore in the wrestlebacks again by decision and defeated Zadick, 3-1, 0-2, 3-0, for third-place. In FILA Junior Nationals action, redshirt freshman Mitch Mueller finished third at 66 kg., sparked by a 1-0, 1-0 victory over former four-time Iowa high school champion Dan LeClere in the consolation semifinals. Nick Fanthorpe placed seventh at 55 kg. by defeating Cory Borges, 6-0, 5-1.

RevWrestling.com is dedicated to covering and promoting amateur wrestling on all levels. However, on occasion, RevWrestling.com will look at mixed martial arts as it relates to amateur wrestling. Date: April 15, 2006 Venue: Arrowhead Pond of Anaheim, CA This is the first UFC event to be held in the state of California. It is also the return of Tito Ortiz (old school), who is fighting in his home state against Forrest Griffin (new school). Does Tito have just too much experience for the stone-headed Griffin? Or is Forrest another soldier from the Ultimate Fighter Reality TV show, who proves worthy of being a UFC title contender? Tonight we find out. Add a great heavyweight title fight (Arlovski vs. Silvia), throw in a sweet Nicki Diaz vs. Sean "the muscle shark" Sherk battle, add "the Snowman" Jeff Monson, Karo Parisyan, David Terrell, and a little Evan Tanner, and you have one exciting MMA fight card. I can't wait. RevWrestling.com's UFC Monster goes one-on-one with the sportsbooks, trying to put his knowledge to the test. Here's how I see the fights (with betting odds in parenthesis): Thiago Alves brings a 13-3 record into the ring against Derrick Noble, who was a late replacement for Drew Fickett, a more experienced fighter. Alves went from being an underdog to Fickett, to being a favorite to beat Noble, who is 15-6-1. Oddsmakers made Alves the steep –400 favorite. Why" He already lost to Noble by rear-naked choke! Couldn't it be done again? Tonight, I'm betting that it can. NOBLE +300 over Alves by submission in the 3rd round Two light-heavy weights will go toe-to-toe and duke it out when Jason Lambert and Terry Martin fight. Much like wrestlers who are attracted into the UFC and MMA (mixed martial arts) to extend their athletic careers, brawlers, who like to fight, also are attracted to such venue, often to cash in on earning potential for fighting. This is what we have here, two dudes like to throw leather. And the crowd always loves a KO. I've seen both fight live before, and I think Lambert's determination and better experience makes him the winner tonight. LAMBERT (–210) by KO in the 2nd round Karo Parisyan has an outstanding 22-3 record, mostly because his fighting style is unique. He tumbles around the mat like a rubber-band man, and uses judo to often surprise his opponent who he then quickly submits. His problem is that he is often injured and unable to compete. Tonight's opponent is Nick "the Goat" Thompson, 23-8, a tough guy who likes to punch, but is, like most MMA fighters today, very good on the ground, as well. But, his ground game pales in comparison to Parisyan's. So, unless the Goat gets in his punch, this one will go to Karo. PARISYAN (-250) over Thompson by submission in the 3rd round Jeff "the Snowman" Monson, 20-5, is about as strong and compact as a human being can be. He's all muscle, and looks like he could punch your eyes out, yet he actually wins most of his fights by submission. And, he's won 14 in a row! His pancrase background makes him a formidable foe. His opponent is a relative unknown, Marcio Cruz, 2-0, who is coming off a stunning upset of one-time heavyweight champion, Frank Mir, who is back from his motorcycle accident. Cruz surprisingly dominated that fight and was able to get Mir to tap out. But, tonight, he has bitten off more than he can eat! MONSON (-210) over Cruz by submission in the 1st round Tim Silvia has waited almost two years to get another shot at regaining his heavyweight title from the monster who took it, Andrei Arlovski, who many feel may be the best fighter in the world today. Arlovski is lightning fast and strong at 6'4" and 240 lbs. His knock-out power is awesome, and yet he wins most fights by submission. He took out Paul Buentello in 15 seconds. Silvia submitted in less than a minute. Silvia, the Maniac, is still a force to be reconned with at 6'8" tall and weighing 265 lbs. He's had many wins by one punch KO's. Silvia, when champion, was never seen without carrying his belt around. Really. He slept with it. This is his life. He has more to gain here than Arlovski. And, in some strange way, I see the Miletich fighter landing that blow to cash at the windows for some long-shot under dog bettors! SILVIA (+300) over Arlovski by KO in the 2nd round Many feel that David Terrell, 9-2, will someday be the middle-weight champ. He is the prototype fighter, who loves to punch and brawl, but who's real strength is in their ground game. Terrell is from the Carlson (may he R.I.P.) Gracie school. There is none finer. Terrell never expects to lose. He is tough mentally. His opponent, Scott "Hands of Steel" Smith, 11-1, is known for his hard hitting. He will need a KO to beat Terrell. I don't see that happening. I see Terrell taking it to the mat and getting his way. TERRELL (-200) over Smith in the 2nd round In one of the UFC Monster's favorite match-ups, we have Nick "the soul assassin" Diaz, 11-5, against Sean "the muscle shark" Sherk, 28-2-1. Sherk's only losses have been to Matt Hughes and Georges St. Pierre. Enough said. But, Sean took some time off "to get away from the sport" and started to raise a family. His return now stands at 0-1 (loss to St. Pierre) and doubts may still linger. But Sherk's physique alone makes him look menacingly formidable, and slight favorite here. Meanwhile, the never imposing looking Diaz has announced that he will drop down a weight after this fight. On physicality, I'd give this fight to Sherk. But, Diaz has backed himself into a corner, losing his last two by close decisions (Diego Sanchez and Joe Riggs). He is fighting for his UFC life here. Three straight losses and you have to change your name to "Tank Abbott". I think Nick finds a way to get it done tonight. He'd rather not go to the mat and be muscled around by Sherk, though his ground game is awesome. Nick will try to land a punch to take out his man. I know he's had enough of judge's decisions lately. DIAZ (+125) over Sherk by KO in the 3rd round In an added match, the ninth on the card, one-time middle-weight champion, Evan Tanner, 35-7, meets a young Justin Levens 7-1. Why? Fading legend against dangerous upstart? Tanner loves to win by using his elbows as lethal weapons in a wicked ground-and-pound game. Levens goes to school tonight. And, the UFC Monster goes to the winner's window. TANNER (-325) over Levens by TKO in the 1st round UFC Monster and Forrest GriffinAnd, in the featured event, Tito Ortiz and Forrest Griffin show the way of the future for UFC fans. It's classic "old school" vs. "new school". Tito's resume is beyond beliefs, having fought both Frank and Ken Shamrock, Vitor Belfort, Vanderlei Silva, Evan Tanner, Randy Couture, Chuck Liddell, and on and on it goes… while Forrest is the upstart with a stone chin and punching power to fear. Griffin's ground game is improving, and he has even fought the legendary wrestler, Dan Severn (decision loss for Forrest). Everything on paper points to Tito. He's even one of the coaches this year on the Ultimate Fighter Reality show. Coaches can't lose! But something tells me that there is an upset brewing. Tito becomes too frustrated with his inability to dispose of the persistent Griffin, and late in the third round, Forrest finds his way through the trees! GRIFFIN (+300) over Ortiz by KO in the 3rd round That's 5 favorites and 4 underdogs. Enjoy the fights. I know I will. More later. The UFC Monster

BLACKSBURG -- Virginia Tech Director of Athletics Jim Weaver announced Friday the hiring of Kevin Dresser as the Hokies' new head wrestling coach. Dresser takes over for Tom Brands, who resigned last week to take the head coaching position at the University of Iowa after two seasons in Blacksburg. "Kevin has been successful in every coaching opportunity he has occupied," Weaver said. "We know he will continue that tradition of success here at Virginia Tech. Dresser is a familiar name in the New River Valley as he has been the head coach at Christiansburg High School for the past 10 seasons, winning the last five Group AA state titles and claiming second place three times. Prior to his stint in Christiansburg, he led Grundy High to eight titles in as many years. "Obviously, we've got a challenge in front of us," Dresser said. "When I came to Grundy and Christiansburg, we had challenges and I think we met those challenges there. This is what gets me up in the mornings. "My first step is to get to know my team and make sure their academics are in order. Then, we will make plans for the summer. Next week, we'll begin interviewing for staff positions and we have some excellent candidates interested in Virginia Tech wrestling." A native of Humboldt, Iowa, Dresser was a two-time high school state champion at Humboldt High School. He graduated from the University of Iowa, where he won a national title in 1986 at 142 pounds. Dresser was a two-time All-American (placing fourth in 1985 at 142 pounds), as well as a two-time Big 10 champion. For his performance in 1986, he was given the Mike Howard Award, given to the most valuable wrestler for the Hawkeyes. Dresser and his wife, Penny, have three children: Emma (7), Anna (6) and Jack (4). Penny Dresser is a native of Blacksburg and the family resides in Riner.

Jim Zalesky, who coached Iowa to three NCAA team championships, has been named the 17th head coach in the history of the Oregon State University wrestling program, Director of Athletics Bob De Carolis announced Friday. Zalesky takes over the Beaver program after 14-year head coach Joe Wells announced his retirement earlier in the week. Zalesky compiled a 127-34 dual meet record at the University of Iowa, serving as head coach from the 1997-98 season through the 2005-06 season. His teams won NCAA titles in 1998, 1999 and 2000, and the Hawkeyes finished second in 2001 and 2004. Zalesky's teams captured three Big Ten team titles and his wrestlers won 10 NCAA individual titles and 45 All-American honors. "I'm tempted to say we hit another home run in hiring a coach," De Carolis said. "In this case, though, it's probably more appropriate to say we just scored a ton of bonus points. In bringing in Jim Zalesky, we're adding a coach to our staff who has won three national championships. He brings a championship work ethic and a championship legacy with him to Oregon State, and we're extremely pleased and excited that Jim will be part of the Beaver family. We look for him to take our wrestling program to the next level." Zalesky will formally be introduced as OSU's head coach at a news conference on Tuesday at 12 noon on the Valley Football Center's third floor; the event is open to the public. Following the news conference, Zalesky will be a guest on KEJO-AM (1240)'s Joe Beaver Show, then will be available for fans to meet. The audio of the press conference will be available live via OregonLive; audio and video will be available later Tuesday afternoon on Beaver Nation Online at www.osubeavers.com. The public is also invited to attend a reception at Hayden's Lakefront Grill in Tualatin from 6-8 p.m. Tuesday. Zalesky's five-year contract calls for a base salary of $90,000 per year with incentives for the wrestling team's postseason and academic accomplishments. Zalesky wrestled for Iowa in the early 1980s and was a four-time All-American and three-time NCAA champion at 158 pounds, ending his Hawkeye career with an 89-match winning streak. The Amateur Wrestling News named him the Wrestler of the Decade for the 1980s. "Oregon State has a great tradition," Zalesky said. "And the athletic department's administration and coaches impressed me. This is an environment I want to work in. "You've got the backing of the administration, which is key. You've also got good Oregon high school wrestling, there's a good base there, and that's a key to a successful program. And there's the tradition of what (former coach) Dale Thomas did there for so long, and Joe Wells took that and kept it going." The Beavers rank third in all-time dual meet victories with an 895-286-26 mark dating back to 1909. OSU has won 44 team conference championships and 200 individual conference titles; the Beavers have placed in the top 10 at the NCAA Championships 18 times; and OSU wrestlers have earned 81 All-America honors, including 12 national titles. In the pre-NCAA Championships era, Oregon State won the 1926 team national title at the Amateur Athletic Association meet. "There's a good base, and you've just got to build up on it," Zalesky said. "You have to make sure guys know you have high goals and high expectations." Zalesky was inducted into the National Wrestling Hall of Fame in 2004, the University of Iowa Letterman's Club Hall of Fame and the Iowa High School Athletic Association Wrestling Hall of Fame in 2002, and the Iowa wrestling Hall of Fame in 1994. "I will bring a wealth of experience to the program, both from a coaching and competition standpoint," Zalesky said. "I have high goals for this program. It takes a lot of hard work, but if you are willing to put the work in, a lot of good things can happen. "I think you have to put a good product on the mat. You have to realize that we our entertainers because people want action. My philosophy is, I want to put a lot of points on the board, I want to pin guys. If we can do that and we are entertaining, you'll get people to come watch you and they will keep coming back ... fans like aggressive wrestling and that's the style I'm going to coach." Zalesky's coaching career also includes three years as an assistant coach at Minnesota and seven seasons as an assistant under legendary Iowa coach Dan Gable. As an assistant at Iowa, Zalesky was named the National Wrestling Coaches Association Assistant Coach of the Year twice. Zalesky inherits an Oregon State program that had one of its finest dual meets seasons in the past several decades with a 13-2-1 record in 2005-06, including beating nationally ranked Hofstra and Cal Poly. OSU placed fourth in the Pac-10 Championships and tied for 41st at the NCAA Championships. OSU could have as many as five wrestlers who qualified for the 2006 NCAA Championships returning for the 2007 season. "Joe Wells left a good foundation, and I intend to keep building on it," Zalesky said. Zalesky is a 1984 graduate of Iowa. He and his wife, Teri, have four children. "My family and I are looking forward to being out there and being part of Oregon State University," Zalesky said.

IOWA CITY, IA -- The man considered by many to be the greatest wrestler/coach in history is returning to the University of Iowa staff as an assistant coach. Dan Gable, a 21-year head coach for the Hawkeyes, will serve as new coach Tom Brands' top assistant. The announcement was made today. "We are very pleased Dan Gable has agreed to join Coach Brands' staff," said Iowa Associate Athletic Director Fred Mims. "They will make an extraordinary team. Dan will also continue to have department-wide duties and will retain his Assistant to the Director title, in addition to his position as assistant coach." In a reversal of roles Gable, who coached Brands to three NCAA titles during his Hawkeye career, will return to the Iowa practice room. Brands also served as an assistant coach at Iowa for five seasons under Gable (1993-97). Dan Gable"I can't express how happy I am that my former coach, Dan Gable, has decided to join my staff at Iowa," said Brands. "He's been with me every step of the way during my career and this will be no different. There's no one in the world who's better at working with wrestlers and I'm glad he's on board." As the University of Iowa's all-time winningest wrestling coach from 1977 to 1997, Dan Gable compiled a career record of 355-21-5, all at Iowa. He coached 152 all-Americans, 45 national champions, 106 Big Ten Champions and 10 Olympians, including four gold, one silver and three bronze medalists. Dan Gable is Iowa's all-time winningest wrestling coach, posting a 355-21-5 record in 21 seasons. "I am delighted to be back in coaching," said Gable. "Tom Brands is one of the few, if any other, that I would have accepted this position from. Our goal is to put Iowa wrestling back on top and I want to do everything I can to make it happen." The Hawkeyes won 25 consecutive Big Ten championships, 21 under Gable as head coach and four while he was an assistant coach and administrator. He had winning percentage of .932 and captured nine consecutive (1978-86) NCAA Championships. Nine straight equaled the longest streak of national titles won by any school in any sport (Yale golf-1905-13 and Southern Cal track-1935-43). On only five occasions did a Gable-coached Iowa team lose more than one dual meet in a year. In fact, Gable's teams averaged over 17 wins and just one loss per season. Gable has also coached many United States teams in international freestyle competition. He is a three-time Olympic head coach (1980, 1984 and 2000). The 1984 Olympic team, which featured four Hawkeyes, won seven gold medals. He was an assistant freestyle coach at the 1976 and 1988 Olympics. Gable also served as head coach of the World Team in 1977, 1978, 1979, 1983, 1994 and 1999, as well as 10 World Cup teams winning three team golds in World Cup competition. Gable also coached the U.S. team to a bronze medal at the 1986 Goodwill Games, and has led several all-star teams to Europe and the Soviet Union. As a competitor, Gable won a gold medal at the 1972 Olympics. During his prep and college careers, Gable compiled an unbelievable record of 182-1. He was undefeated in 64 prep matches, and was 118-1 at Iowa State University. His only defeat came in the NCAA finals his senior year. Gable was a three-time all-American and three-time Big Eight champion. Gable was named to the U.S.A. Wrestling Hall of Fame in 1980 and the U.S. Olympic Hall of Fame in 1985. He was selected the nation's outstanding wrestler by the AAU in 1970, and the U.S. Wrestling Federation in 1971. Gable was the Amateur Wrestling News Man of the Year in 1970. Gable has been serving as an assistant to Iowa Athletics Director Bob Bowlsby for the past nine years. He has remained extremely active in United States wrestling activities.

This just in: Live from Las Vegas, NV at 9:05 AM CST The University of Iowa's new head coach Tom Brands will go live one on one with the boys of TDR. Find out what Coach Brands has to say about the hiring of Coach Gable. What the future holds for the Hawkeyes. So many questions, so little time. Join us for a tremendous show.

Las Vegas, Nev. -- Iowa State wrestling recruit Jon Reader captured the 160 pound Western Junior Regional Greco-Roman title Thursday at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Reader, a three-time Michigan state champion, was the runner-up in 2005. Reader (Michigan) scored a 9-3, 7-0 technical fall over Lucas Munkelwitz (Minnesota). "I'm proud of Jon and all he's accomplished," head coach Cael Sanderson said. "He's getting good experience and is a key piece of the puzzle to our future." Reader is the 10th-ranked recruit by NWCA/Intermat and recently was the Michigan recipient of the Dave Schultz High School Excellence award along with soon-to-be teammate T.J. Sebolt (Iowa). 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 Amateur Wrestling News' rankings. Reader is expected to redshirt next season. Reader competed in elite company with some of the best high school seniors in the nation that included top recruits Kenny Lester (Arizona State) and future Boise State wrestlers Adam Hall and Eli Hutchinson. Hutchinson is ranked by NWCA/Intermat as the 25th best recruit, Lester rates 42nd and Hall pulls in at 44th. The U.S. Senior Nationals begin tomorrow along with the FILA Junior Nationals. The first session of the FILA Junior Nationals begins at 9 a.m. ISU's Nick Fanthorpe, Mitch Mueller, Joe Curran, David Zabriskie and Sebolt are slated to compete in freestyle. The top six finishers at each weight class at the FILA Junior Nationals will qualify for the 2006 FILA Junior World Team Camp and World Team Trials in Colorado Springs, Colo., June 4-11. The top seven finishers at the U.S. Senior Freestyle Nationals will qualify for the World Team Trials May 27-28 in Sioux City, Iowa.

Corvallis, Ore -- Joe Wells has stepped down as Oregon State's wrestling head coach, it was announced Thursday. Wells spent 14 years at OSU and compiled a 161-94-3 dual meet record, he led the Beavers to a Pacific-10 championship and guided them to four top-10 finishes at the NCAA Championships, including a runner-up finish in 1995. Wells has asked to be reassigned within the University, and his request will be granted, OSU athletic director Bob De Carolis said. Wells will be working with OSU's Bridge program, which helps build the skills students need to make a successful transition from high school to college. "My son is going into high school next year and I thought it would be really nice to spend some time with my kids versus everybody else's kids," said Wells, 58, whose first season at OSU was 1992-93. "And I'm really looking forward to a new challenge. I think I'll have an opportunity to be working with all student athletes and all the teams in the department and serve as a resource for the coaches. "I'll be reporting to Larry Roper (Vice Provost for Student Affairs) and I have a lot of respect for him and the things he's done, and I'm really looking forward to the new challenge." This season, the Beavers had one of their finest dual meet seasons with a 13-2-1 record, including beating nationally-ranked Hofstra and Cal Poly. OSU placed fourth in the Pac-10 Championships and tied for 41st at the NCAA Championships. "Joe has done an exemplary job of maintaining a clean, competitive program for more than a decade," OSU athletic director Bob De Carolis said. "During his time at Oregon State, his program has not only produced wrestlers who performed well on the mat, but performed well in the classroom and on campus, as well. His presence on our coaching staff will be missed, but we look forward to having him remain at OSU in this new capacity." OSU will begin its search for a new head coach immediately. Oregon State has a long tradition as one of the nation's wrestling powers. The Beavers rank third in all-time dual meet victories with an 895-286-26 mark dating back to 1909. OSU has won 44 team conference championships and 200 individual conference titles; the Beavers have placed in the top 10 at the NCAA Championships 18 times; and OSU wrestlers have earned 81 All-America honors, including 12 national titles. In the pre-NCAA Championships era, Oregon State won the 1926 team national title at the Amateur Athletic Association meet. During Wells' tenure at OSU, the Beavers contribution to that legacy included the 1994 Pacific-10 team championship, 22 individual conference champions, 17 All-America finishes and a pair of individual national titles. At the NCAA meet under Wells, OSU placed second in 1995, fourth in 1994, eighth in 1996 and tied for ninth in 1998. Wells was named Pacific-10 Coach of the Year in 1994 and 1995. In 1998, he was named the ASICS Oregon Wrestling Classic's Man of the Year for his contributions to wrestling in the state." "I just think of the kids and the relationships, the funny circumstances that have occurred" Wells said. "How this guy or that guy came in and worked hard and had a great career. There's just a whole myriad of thoughts that cross your mind ... "Like (former heavyweight) Adam Daniels coming in and now he's got a job in Washington D.C. working for Darlene Hooley and may become a professor or go to law school and become a congressman... it's just all the individual stories, those connections that you have. Like (All-American) Nathan Coy going to the NCAAs, and his mom asking him ‘What does NCAA stand for?' and he says, ‘National Collegiate Athletic Association.' She says, ‘No – it's Nathan Coy, All-American.' He liked that." Wells, who has coached numerous World Teams for the United States, is a 1972 Iowa graduate. He was a two-time placer at the Big Ten meet and was the 1976 U.S. Wrestling Federation freestyle champ. He spent 17 seasons as an assistant coach at Iowa and Michigan before coming to Oregon State. Wells leaves his successor an OSU program that could have five qualifiers for the NCAA Championships returning for the 2006-07 season: 125-pounder Eric Stevenson, 133-pounder Bobby Pfennigs, 141-pounder Kyle Larson, 174-pounder Jeremy Larson and heavyweight Ty Watterson. Other wrestlers who were either starters this past season or have extensive experience as starters at OSU include 125/133-pounder Jake Gonzales, 149-pounder Derek Kipperberg, 184-pounder Kyle Bressler and 197-pounder Travis Gardner. "It was just a perfect opportunity," Wells said of the timing for a new coach to lead the program. "We have a senior/junior-dominated group for next year and it would be an easy transition for the person coming in."

Hour #1 Coach Randy Simpson -- Summer wrestling training tips from one of America's great teachers Mychal Grenawalt -- Founder of Matside Michigan Magazine, the state of wrestling in the Michigan and tri state area Michigan's Ryan Churella -- After a disappointing NCAA championship match you might ask, What's next for this Wolverine? Hour #2 What can an out of work, too old for the fight game and knees to sore from competition wrestler do to earn a living? Become an actor! David Dunn -- Actor and co-producer of No Rules, the Movie is a Sherdog.com exclusive, featuring former UFC champions Gerry Anderson (Pam Anderson's Brother) -- Co-producer of No Rules, the movie, Frank Shamrock and Randy Couture star with Tom Sizemore, Gary Busey, David Dunn, Dian Bachar, Anahit Niasyan, Pilar Lastra, Phillip Tan Matt Hughes -- eight-time UFC Welter Weight champion we'll talk with this wrestling and fight star as he prepares for UFC 60

State College, Pa. -- The Penn State Nittany Lion wrestling team and head coach Troy Sunderland, fresh off a most successful 2005-06 campaign, continued to add to what is already being hailed as one of the nation's top recruiting classes with the signing of top ranked Jesse "Bubba" Jenkins (Virginia Beach, Va.) to a National Letter of Intent. Jenkins, a native of Virginia Beach and a student at First Colonial High School, is the top-ranked 145-pound wrestler in the country according to Amateur Wrestling News and Intermat. He won the NHSCA National Championship, dominating the tournament and winning the crown with a pin the second period of the finals. A Virginia State high school champion, Jenkins was voted Outstanding Wrestler at the 2005 Beast of the East Championships after winning the title in what was considered the deepest weight class in the tournament. He was also voted the Outstanding Wrestler after winning the 2005 Powerade Championship. Jenkins also finished third at Cadet Nationals. With Sunderland traveling on signing day to lead many of his current Nittany Lions into action at the U.S. Freestyle Open and Team Trials, assistant coach Matt Dernlan was excited to comment on Jenkins' impending arrival at Penn State. "I know I echo Coach Sunderland's thoughts when I say that this is a great day for the Penn State wrestling program," Dernlan said. "Bubba's addition to our wrestling family gives us yet another top-ranked wrestler in this outstanding class and this young man has the potential to be a difference maker for us. He is an outstanding individual and a phenomenal athlete with the work ethic to match. With continued hard work and training here at Penn State, we believe that his potential is limitless and we're looking forward to helping him reach the highest of goals." Jenkins joins an already outstanding recruiting class that features Garrett Scott (Alexandria, Pa.), ranked No. 2 at 140 by AWN in its final 2006 high school rankings; Josh Rohler (Akron, Ohio), ranked No. 7 at 152 by AWN; and Dave Rella (Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio), ranked No. 2 at 160 by AWN. Penn State recently concluded an outstanding 2005-06 season with its ninth place finish with three All-Americans at nationals. Sunderland's Nittany Lions went 13-4 in dual matches, including a 5-3 mark in Big Ten action. The Lions crowned one Big Ten Champion and placed fourth at the Big Ten Championships with eight national qualifiers.

NDIANAPOLIS, IN -— A change in the overtime procedure and an increase of 10 pounds in the 275-pound weight class are among the revisions in high school wrestling rules for the 2006-07 season. A total of 14 rules revisions were approved by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Wrestling Rules Committee at its March 26-27 meeting in Indianapolis. The rules changes were subsequently approved by the NFHS Board of Directors. After successful experimentation in several states last year, a potential of one additional minute was added to the overtime period. Beginning next season, if no score occurs in the sudden-victory period, two 30-second tiebreakers will take place. Scoring in these two tiebreakers will be conducted as in a regular match. If the score remains tied at the conclusion of the two tiebreakers, one additional 30-second period will be conducted, with the first person scoring declared the winner. If no points are scored, the offensive wrestler wins the match. Previously, only one 30-second tiebreaker was conducted after the one-minute overtime period. The new rule provides for one additional 30-second tiebreaker and another 30-second period if the score remains tied after the tiebreakers. For the first time since 1987, the limit on the heavyweight class was increased from 275 to 285 pounds. Jerry Diehl, assistant director of the NFHS and rules committee liaison, said student-athletes are bigger than they were when the limit of 275 pounds was established 19 years ago. He said the committee made the change to encourage additional high school athletes to compete in wrestling. Dave Gannaway, assistant executive director of the Illinois High School Association and chair of the NFHS Wrestling Rules Committee, noted that the additional 10 pounds will provide larger athletes, particularly football players, an increased opportunity to wrestle. In other rules revisions, the committee altered Rule 6-6 regarding the correction of errors. Beginning next season, any error (other than bad time and positioning) must be corrected prior to the start of the next period. For the correction to be made during the last period, it must be corrected prior to the wrestler/coach leaving the mat area. Previously, changes could be made after the match or within 30 minutes of the completion of a dual meet. "Coaches and their scorekeepers have the responsibility to recognize scoring errors as they occur," Diehl said. "It is unfair to attempt a reconstruction of what transpired in a previous period, if it is questioned in the subsequent period." The definition of when a match begins was revised in Rule 5-18-2. Beginning next season, a match (in dual matches) begins when the proper wrestler reports to the scorer's table. Previously, by definition, a match started with the action of the first period. Diehl said the committee made this change to support the current interpretation of penalizing a wrestler who reports to compete and is improperly equipped. Following is a summary of other changes approved for high school wrestling next year: * Head coaches and captains are required to meet with the referee prior to each dual meet. * Technical violations and potentially dangerous holds added to the list of items that must be verbally communicated to the referee when an assistant referee system is used. * When the referee and assistant referee meet to confer, they shall meet away from the scorer's table. (previously was in front of table) * Restriction for garment extending below the singlet was modified. * Decision on when to award additional near-fall points for acts by the defensive wrestler has been clarified. * A wrestler who properly reports to the scorer's table for a dual match cannot be withdrawn or replaced without causing the individual to be disqualified and the weight class forfeited. * Penalty for pulling back the fingers clarified to state the act of grasping is not an automatic violation. * Hand(s) to the face and/or raking the eyes added to the list of illegal holds. * The term "fleeing" has been added to Rule 7-3-2. * An exception was added to note that a match will not be stopped to penalize the offensive wrestler for stalling when the defensive wrestler has come to the standing position. These 14 rules revisions will take effect next season, along with the landmark weight-management guidelines approved last year by the committee for implementation in 2006-07. These guidelines were approved in an effort to discourage rapid-weight loss by student-athletes. In addition, the following points of emphasis were developed by the Wrestling Rules Committee for the 2006-07 season: dealing with apparent concussions, unnecessary roughness and slams, weigh-in procedures, uniform requirements, and socks and use of other special equipment. Wrestling is the sixth-most popular sport for boys at the high school level, with 243,009 participants during the 2004-05 season, according to the High School Athletics Participation Survey conducted by the NFHS. It ranks eighth in school sponsorship with 9,562 high schools nationwide conducting the sport. In addition, a total of 4,334 girls participated in high school wrestling in 2004-05. NFHS 2006-07 WRESTLING RULE CHANGES 1-3-1 Each state association shall develop and utilize a weight-management program that includes a specific gravity not to exceed 1.025; a body fat assessment no lower than seven percent for males/12 percent for females and a monitored weekly weight loss plan not to exceed 1.5 percent a week. 3-1-4e Head coaches and captains are required to meet with the referee prior to each dual meet. 3-2-2a Technical violations and potentially dangerous holds have been added to the list of items that must be verbally communicated to the referee when an assistant referee system is used. 3-2-2f When the referee and assistant referee meet to confer, the meeting shall take place away from the scorer's table. 4-1-1c The restriction for a garment extending below the singlet has been modified to allow a tight-fitting, single-solid color, unadorned product that does not extend below the knee. 4-4-4 The 275-pound class has been increased to 285 pounds. 5-11-2f-i The determination of when to award additional near-fall points for acts by the defensive wrestler has been clarified. 5-18-2 A match begins when the proper wrestler reports to the scorer's table in dual matches. 6-2-2 A wrestler who properly reports to the scorer's table for a dual match cannot be withdrawn or replaced without causing the individual to be disqualified and the weight class forfeited. 6-6-4a1 & 6-6-5a1 Any error, other than bad time (Art. 1) or positioning (Art. 2), shall be corrected prior to the start of the next period, regulation or overtime. For the correction to be made during the last period, it must be corrected prior to the wrestler/coach leaving the mat area. 6-7-1 The Overtime shall consist of a one-minute Sudden Victory period; if no scoring occurs, two 30-second tiebreakers shall be utilized; and if the score remains tied a 30-second Ultimate Tiebreaker will be completed. 7-1-4 The penalty for pulling back the fingers has been clarified to indicate the act of grasping is not an automatic violation. 7-1-5 Hand(s) to the face and/or raking the eyes have been added to the listing of illegal holds. 7-3-2 The term "fleeing" has been added to the rule. 8-1-2c An exception has been added indicating that the match will not be stopped to penalize the offensive wrestler for stalling when the defensive wrestler has come to the standing position. Points of Emphasis 1. Concussions 2. Unnecessary Roughness and Slams 3. Weigh-in Procedures 4. Uniform Requirements 5. Socks and Other Special Equipment Use

Las Vegas, Nev. -- A host of past and present ISU wrestlers will compete at the U.S. Nationals and FILA Junior Nationals April 12-15 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Six Cyclones will be competing in freestyle while five others will see action at the FILA Junior Nationals. The top seven in the senior freestyle bracket earn All-American status and qualify for the World Team Trials in Sioux City May 27-28. Former ISU 125-pound three-time NCAA qualifier Grant Nakamura earned a spot at the World Team Trials and after placing first at the Rocky Mountain Junior and Senior Regional Championships in Laramie, Wyo. at 55 kg. at the end of March. "This is a chance to make a statement to the nation about where we stand as a program," Iowa State head coach Cael Sanderson said. "We have young talent and successful alumni and this is a platform to get more experience." Former ISU national champions will be looking to make their mark as 2006 NCAA champ and three-time All-American Nate Gallick and 2004 NCAA champion Zach Roberson returns at 60 kg. Gallick is ranked second in the latest USA Wrestling freestyle rankings and Roberson rates fifth. Gallick finished runner-up at last year's U.S. Nationals and the 2005 World Team Trials in Ames. Roberson, who captured a bronze medal at the Dave Schultz Memorial International in Februrary, registered a third-place finish in Las Vegas last year. Gallick knows the road to the finals isn't easy. "The top eight are always tough and it's not easy to get through the early rounds," Gallick said. "If you don't come in with the mentality to win, you'll get picked off by a weaker seed. This is the first tournament that my brother (Nick) and I have wrestled in at the same weight class and I wish him all the best." Roberson was a three-time All-American during his stellar career at Iowa State and is looking to improve on a fourth-place finish he earned at the 2005 World Team Trials. "I think the more you wrestle freestyle, the better you're going to get at it," Roberson said. "My defense and tie-up offense have gotten a little better since last year. It's going to be a tough weight and someone told me that (former Oklahoma two-time NCAA champion) Teyon Ware might be there but I'm ready to go." Nick Gallick will also be competing at 60 kg. and the former Amateur Wrestling News All-American just completed a successful redshirt season. Nick, projected to compete to replace two-time NCAA qualifier Jesse Sundell at 133 pounds next season, spoke about the adjustments he's made since winning four state titles at Sunnyside High School in Arizona and the level of talent he'll be facing. "Everyone is a lot harder to score on in college," Nick said. "They position themselves better, they're stronger and quicker. This will be a different level of competition for me and the best wrestlers in the nation will be there. It will be a great learning experience and help me get to the next level where the best are. I'm going to work hard all summer to be ready for next season." Two-time All-Americans Trent and Travis Paulson will be competing at 74 kg. along with 2005 freestyle All-American David Bertolino. The Paulsons, fresh off their third NCAA Championships appearance, feel that conditioning will be an asset. "We've trained collegiately and freestyle is in shorter spurts and not as intense," Travis said. "I've wrestled in freestyle and Greco-Roman my entire life." Trent, who placed fourth at the 2005 and 2006 NCAA Championships, captured a Greco-Roman title at the University Nationals in Evanston, Ill., last year to qualify for the World Team Trials. "This will be another opportunity to get some freestyle experience," Trent said. "After training collegiately, I feel conditioning will be a strength. Our team will be very strong next year because coach (Sanderson) has brought in the best talent from the country." Bertolino placed seventh at the 2005 U.S. Nationals with a 2-1, 3-2 win over NYAC's Nate Patrick and surprised himself as he advanced through the 74 kg. bracket. "I felt like I was on a runner's high," Bertolino said. "Last year I didn't go in with a lot of pressure on me and I got on a roll. I wrestle a lot shorter and harder in freestyle. I go 110%." 2005-06 starter Ben Hanisch, a first-team Academic All-Big 12 selection at 125 pounds, will be competing at 55 kg. "I've got to go in with the mentality to win just like any other match," Hanisch said. "Cutting weight won't be a problem for me. I'm trying to improve conditioning, takedowns on my feet and technique." One of the most host heralded recruits in the country from Bakersfield, Calif., in 2005, Jake Varner, will be testing the freestyle waters at 84 kg. after making a splash at the 2005 FILA Junior Nationals by finishing runner-up and serving as a member of the 2005 FILA Junior Freestyle World Team that went to Lithuania. Varner scored five pins in five attempts during his redshirt year. "You've got to go in with the mentality to win," Varner said. "I've been training with older guys and I'm trying to work hard and do everything I can to prepare. I'm excited to have Coach (Sanderson) and Tim (Hartung) out there because when you look in your corner you know you're in good hands." Redshirt freshmen Nick Fanthorpe, Mitch Mueller, Joey DeMarie, Joe Curran and David Zabriskie will also be competing in the FILA Junior Nationals in freestyle April 14-15. Fanthorpe, a two-time Illinois state champion from Naperville, placed in the top-five in three open touranments during his redshirt year and compiled a 12-7 record. Fanthorpe placed seventh in freestyle at the 2004 Junior Nationals in Fargo, N.D. "There will be a lot of good guys in my bracket," Fanthorpe said. "I'm expecting to see the best kids in the country out there and I've been working hard in the practice room on a couple of rule changes." Mueller has had success on both the freestyle and Greco-Roman circuits, evidenced by his freestyle crown at the 2005 National Junior Championships and freestyle and Greco-Roman titles at the 2005 Western and Rocky Mountain Regional. "I wasn't too happy with my redshirt year but I made some improvements," the former two-time state champ at Iowa City West said. "I like freestyle and have a lot of experience with it. I'm really looking forward to next season because we'll have a real tough team and contend for a national title." Curran wrestled as a true freshman at 197 pounds, taking over for two-year starter Trevor Smith, and scored five falls. "My confidence gets boosted with every win," Curran said. "I've faced some of the best competition in the country (conference All-Americans Rosholt, Flaggert, Padden) so I won't be intimidated when I step out on the mat. In practice we've been working a lot on takedowns from the feet because there's no top or bottom in freestyle." Zabriskie, a New Jersey state champion, also redshirted this season and is expected to compete to start at heavyweight next year. "Guys are so much bigger and stronger on the collegiate level," Zabriskie said. "I was able to use my strength to my advantage in high school but guys are just as strong or even stronger here. This tournament will be pretty tough but I'll wrestle to the best of my ability and learn a lot about freestyle. At last year's U.S. Senior Nationals, ISU brought home five freestyle All-Americans and former assistant head coach Chris Bono, now at Tennessee-Chattanooga, won a title at 66 kg. Bono carries a No. 1 ranking into U.S. Nationals. Nate Gallick was runner-up at and Roberson registered a third-place finish at 60 kg. Bertolino and former Iowa State four-time NCAA qualifier Nick Passolano placed seventh and fifth, respectively. At the 2005 FILA Junior Nationals, ISU's redshirt freshman Cyler Sanderson placed fourth a 66 kg. and Jake Varner was runner-up at 84 kg. The World Team Trials will be held at the Tyson Events Center in Sioux City, Iowa.

Who: Title Fight Championship presents Ground and Pound: The Beginning Starring 8 x UFC Welter Weight Champion Matt Hughes and 5X UFC Champion Randy "The Natural" Couture When: Friday April 21st, 2006 Doors open at 6:00 PM Fights start at 7:30 PM Where: 7 Flags Events Center, 2100 NW 100th St,Clive, Iowa 50325 -- 515-278-8888 Tickets: Tickets are priced at $75.00 Ringside and $35.00 General admission and can be purchased at the 7 Flags Events Center front desk, Mondays through Sundays; at Iowa Video, 2822 Beaver Ave, Des Moines, Iowa (515) 274-4257, info at Titlefightchampionship.com or for credit cards by calling (515)-274-0849. VIP Tickets are sold out! What: Are you ready? Iowa's voice of NCAA Wrestling, MMA Fighting and Pro Boxing Scott Casber and his partner and long time Motocross Star turned promoter Tony Wenck are proud to bring Title Fight Championships to the 7 Flags Events Center for a night of unparalleled mixed martial arts fights at 7:30 p.m. Sat April 21. Meet the legend 5X UFC Champion Randy "The Natural" Couture Shake the Hand of Special TFC Official and 8 x UFC Welter Weight Champion Matt Hughes Witness the pinnacle of athleticism and sportsmanship as TFC showcases world-class fighters from around the midwest , including many of the midwest's top contenders. Watch as TFC welcomes 2 X NCAA All American and Couture Trained Gray Maynard to the ranks of the pros! See the return of The War Frog Ronnie Britt, Ian Tice, Chuck Grigsby, Waylon Wolf, Chris Mickle, Joe Jordan, Mike Van Meer and many others! Be there as TFC Pays Tribute and honors the greatest Ultimate Fighter of all Time. Former 5X UFC champion Randy "The Natural" Couture, The man that made the term Ground and pound part of the MMA vocabulary. Join the hundreds that already purchased their tickets to become part this legendary night of one-on-one combat. (for those unable to attend Title Fight Championship presents Ground and Pound: The Beginning in person please tune to www.Takedownradio.com the voice of Wrestling and MMA for all of the action LIVE from ring side with your hosts Steve Foster, Nick Passolano and Nick Britton!) Title Fight Championship presents Ground and Pound: The Beginning The TFC Card (subject to change): Mike Cinowoski Vs. Leo Sylvest* Mike Van Meer Vs. Waylon Wolf* Ronnie Britt Vs Josh Pankey* Ian Tice Vs Matt Albright* Chris Mickle Vs Adam Hopper* Joe Jordan Vs Trent Blair* Chuck Grigsby Vs Chris Clark* Nick Marin Vs Mike Adams* Josh Powell Vs Gray Maynard* Brian Green Vs Jason Purcell* Joe Vedapoe Vs TBA* Brian Valline Vs TBA* Josh Gutcher Vs TBA* Iron Jaw Jesse Sanders Vs Plus 3 to 4 more big bouts For more information about this evening of MMA action call Scott Casber or Tony Wenck at 515-274-0849

Olympic silver medalist Jamill Kelly spent this past weekend working with the Carrie Garth Wells Institute (CGWI) in Oklahoma City to help raise money for disadvantaged children and families throughout Oklahoma. Kelly was one of the many stars on hand at Terrance Jackson's All-Star Weekend last Thursday through Saturday. Jackson started this event last year, and included Kelly in its inaugural year. The Olympic silver medalist was back this year, hanging with the likes of Clinton Portis, LaVar Arrington and Cato June. "Last year I was contacted by a friend of mine from college about being involved with the charity and coming out to help them get the ball rolling. They wanted athletes from Oklahoma as well as around the country so of course I agreed," Kelly said. "The whole experience was great and I hope to stay involved and hope other wrestlers can become involved too." The athletes visited the OU Medical Center Children's Hospital on Friday morning and hosted an autograph session at Incredible Pizza on Friday afternoon before bowling and playing games with many of the area's youth. Kelly (right), Arrington (left) and Jackson with a child and his father.On Saturday, the athletes took part in a golf scramble and were invited to a fashion show that featured local designers. Overall, the weekend raised a lot of money for the CGWI's cause and the charity gained momentum for next year. "It's a great feeling to be in a position to be able to help this families, and kids, and help raise money to benefit people in the community. It also helps keep you very grounded and realize that you always have to count your blessings." But with all the fanfare over the NFL stars in Oklahoma City, Kelly was never overshadowed or left feeling out of place. "It was just like hanging with Mo (Lawal) and Daniel (Cormier)," Kelly said. "They took me in as if I was one of their boys. I had a really good time. They actually asked me some questions about wrestling. LaVar Arrington actually asked me how he could lose 10 lbs. As an athlete, I know and feel I'm one of the best in the world, so I never get awestruck. As I look at it, none of them can honestly say their second best in the world."