InterMat Staff

National champion Cross Cannone will look to keep Wartburg on top this season (Photo/Wartburg College Sports Information) The Wartburg College Knights are the kings of college wrestling at the NCAA Division III level. Wartburg captured its 14th national championship in program history, and seventh in the past eight years, during the 2018 NCAA DIII tournament in Cleveland. The Knights rolled to the team title, scoring 136.5 points with Augsburg (82) and Ithaca (79) rounding out the top three. Will Wartburg's reign continue this season? Wartburg lost five senior All-Americans, including one national champion and two other finalists, from last season's winning team. The Knights do return plenty of firepower, led by returning national champions in senior Cross Cannone (149 pounds) and sophomore Brock Rathbun (133). Cannone, a two-time All-American, was named the Iowa Conference's most valuable wrestler in 2018. He has a career record of 87-10. Rathbun went 25-5 as a freshman and was named Iowa Conference freshman of the year. The Knights also bring back All-American Mike Ross at 165 pounds. He was eighth in the country last year. He was 24-3 with 10 falls last season. Traditional powerhouse Augsburg, winners of 12 national team titles, is expected to put another excellent team on the mat this winter. The Auggies are loaded with proven performers and look primed to make a strong run at returning to its familiar perch atop Division III. The last time a team other than Augsburg or Wartburg won the team title in Division III was when Ithaca College captured the 1994 championship. Augsburg's Lucas Jeske was named Outstanding Wrestler at the national tournament (Photo/Wartburg College Sports Information) Augsburg returns a pair of national champions in juniors Lucas Jeske and Ryan Epps. Jeske was named Outstanding Wrestler at the 2018 national tournament. He powered to a 15-0 technical fall over Ithaca's Nick Velez in the 165-pound finals. Third in the nation in 2017, Jeske was 39-1 last season and he is 65-9 in his career. Epps captured his national title in dramatic fashion, scoring a takedown in overtime to edge Wartburg's Logan Thomsen 3-1 in the 157-pound finals. Epps finished the season with a 26-match winning streak. He was 41-1 as a sophomore. He is 76-8 in his career. "We are looking to improve on our finish from last season's national tournament," Augsburg coach Jim Moulsoff said. "We have a strong returning group from the last two seasons. We will return seven All-Americans from 2017 and 2018 with three of them being finalists and two national champions. We have a lot of competition in the room that will help. We have a lot of work ahead of us, but we have a very motivated group that is looking to improve in the classroom and on the mat. It should be an exciting year." Jay Albis became Johnson & Wales' first national champion in any sport (Photo/Johnson & Wales Sports Information) Jay Albis made history for the Johnson & Wales wrestling program last season. He became the school's first national champion in any sport. Albis pulled out a wild 11-10 win over Wheaton's Carolos Fuentez in the 2018 national finals at 125 pounds. Albis scored a takedown in the final seconds to prevail. Now a senior, Albis has a chance to do it again. He won the award for having the most technical falls of any wrestler in the country last season. Ithaca's Ben Brisman also is back after winning the 141-pound national title as a sophomore. He beat top-seeded Brett Kaliner of Stevens Institute of Technology 10-7 in the championship match. He won his school's first national title since 2013. Mount Union's Jairod James is another wrestler who will look to repeat as a national champion this season. James downed Jon Goetz of Wisconsin-Platteville 4-1 in the 174-pound national finals last season. James went 22-1 as a junior last season. Waynesburg's Jake Evans also returns to defend his national title at heavyweight. Evans provided one of the more compelling stories in collegiate wrestling last season by winning an NCAA Division III crown at age 28. Evans enrolled at Waynesburg as a 26-year-old and became the school's first national champion in 2018. He was 49-3 last season. The NCAA Division III level and the entire sport of wrestling suffered a significant loss following the 2017-18 season when long-time coach Mike Duroe of Cornell College passed away after battling brain cancer. Craig Sesker has written about wrestling for more than three decades. He's covered three Olympic Games and is a two-time national wrestling writer of the year.

Aaron Pico (Photo/Bellator) One week after celebrating his 22nd birthday, Aaron Pico -- who made a name for himself as a high school wrestler but bypassed college competition for mixed martial arts -- made short work of veteran Leandro "Pitbull" Higo, scoring a TKO by punches at 3:19 of Round One at Bellator 206 at SAP Center in San Jose Saturday night. MMA websites used different words to describe what Pico did to the 29-year-old Higo in their featherweight (145 pounds) fight -- "obliterates" (LowKickMMA.com) ... "rolls over" (MMAFighting.com) ... "demolishes" (MMAJunkie.com) ... and "annihilates" (BloodyElbow.com). "This fight didn't last long as Pico was aggressive early and looking to knock Higo's block off," according to LowKickMMA.com. "Higo with two knees to the face to test the prospect. Pico hurts Higo but then Higo defended the onslaught against the fence very well. Hard right hand floors Higo and eventually gets the late stoppage." MMAFighting.com wrote, "Higo used low kicks to try to stymie Pico's progress at the outset, but it didn't last long. The hard-charging Pico dropped Higo with a wicked right, and while Higo managed to get back to his feet after an initial onslaught, Pico just continued to lay the heavy hands on his opponent until the bout was waved off." In the brief bout, it wasn't all Pico, all the time. "Pico didn't deliver his damage without taking some in return," MMAJunkie.com reported. "In the early moments, Higo caught him on the counter as he aggressively pursued exchanges. None of the shots, however, were enough to slow the 21-year-old down. A straight right was the beginning of the shift, as Higo covered up and took several shots to the body. From there, Pico was in control." At the end, BloodyElbow.com described Pico as "scary good." MMAFighting.com went into a bit more detail with its summation of where the freestyle wrestling phenom in high school now is in the pro MMA career launched in June 2017 with a shocking defeat. "They've been calling Aaron Pico the sport's brightest blue-chip prospect for years now. But it's time to retire that label, because it is clear the Southern California native is the real deal and well on his way to the top." "I'll tell you one thing, three or four years from now, there will be no one who touches me in this cage," Pico said after the bout. A couple days earlier, Pico had said he had not ruled out a return to freestyle wrestling, confident that he could make the U.S. Olympic team for the 2020 or 2024 Games. With the win, Pico is now 4-1 (the one loss was in his pro debut in 24 seconds via submission in the first round to Zach Freeman at Bellator 180). Higo, who has been fighting since 2006, is now 18-5.

Ryan Mango won a U.S. Open title earlier this year (Photo/Tony Rotundo, WrestlersAreWarriors.com) STANFORD, Calif. -- Former Stanford All-American Ryan Mango and North Carolina standout Danny Chaid have joined the California Regional Training Center, as announced by director Nate Engel. "We are excited to welcome Ryan Mango and Danny Chaid to the California Regional Training Center," said Engel, who just completed his duties as the head coach of the U.S. Greco World Team that competed at the Junior World Championships in Slovakia. "Having Ryan's wealth of experience both in college and on the international circuit is huge. He will be a tremendous asset to our lower weights as he chases World and Olympic medals. After a stellar collegiate career, Danny is coming back home to his roots and we are excited to have him training with our upper weights. Both Ryan and Danny will make an immediate impact at the California RTC." Mango has spent the last three years training in Colorado Springs with the Army World Class Athlete Program. He will continue to reside and primarily train in Colorado Springs, but will travel to Stanford for a number of lengthy training cycles this year. A two-time NCAA All-American and four-time NCAA qualifier for Stanford, Mango won the 2018 U.S. Open and was third at the 2016 Olympic Team Trials. "I am very happy to be back on The Farm training with the wrestling team. It's a blessing anytime you are able to give back to a program that has not only given you athletic opportunities, but academic and professional opportunities as well," said Mango, who graduated from Stanford with a degree in human biology. Chaid began his collegiate career at Oklahoma before transferring to Grand Canyon and then to the University of North Carolina, where he competed from 2016-18. Chaid hails from San Jose, California, where he was five-time California freestyle state champion. He was also a FILA Junior Freestyle Pan Am champion and University Nationals Greco All-American. "As we work to take the RTC to the next level under first-year director Nate Engel, this is a big first step," explained Stanford head wrestling coach Jason Borrelli. "We have homegrown talent with Danny coming back to California, and adding Ryan to the RTC is huge. He is on the verge of making World and Olympic teams, and we have been trying to find a way to get him back to The Farm for a long time. Finally being able to make it happen will bode well for the future."

Bob Siddens with his 1955 state championship Waterloo West team (Photo/National Wrestling Hall of Fame) Bob Siddens, legendary wrestling coach at Iowa's Waterloo West High School who coached future NCAA champs Dan Gable and Dale Anderson among others, passed away in his Cedar Falls, Iowa home in his sleep Thursday after a long illness. He was 93. In 27 seasons as head coach at Waterloo West -- from 1951-1977 -- Siddens coached the Wahawks to 11 state titles while compiling a dual record of 327-26-3, including an 88-match win streak that ran from 1968 to 1975. In addition Siddens coached 51 individual state champion wrestlers, and 33 state runner-ups. Arguably Siddens' most famous pupil was Dan Gable, who Siddens referred to as Daniel. From 1964 to 1966, Gable posted a 64-0 mark for Siddens while winning three state titles before going on to win NCAA championships at Iowa State, a gold medal at the 1972 Munich Olympics, and become a coaching legend himself at the University of Iowa. Bob Siddens coached Dan Gable (Photo/National Wrestling Hall of Fame) "Sadly, my high school coach and one of the greatest influences in my life, Bob Siddens, has passed away," said Gable. "I sincerely believe that of all people I've been associated with, Bob Siddens, has been the biggest factor in building my desire and attitude in wrestling. Just one big 'thank you' to him for helping me set my lifestyle as well." Another of Sidden's great wrestlers, Dale Anderson, a two-time state champion and two-time Michigan State NCAA champ, told the Waterloo-Cedar Falls Courier of his immediate reaction upon learning of the death of his high school mentor. "When I found out I couldn't even talk," Anderson told his hometown newspaper. "I had to hand my phone off to Sandy (Anderson's wife.). "It's such a loss to so many people. I was the luckiest man in the world to have him as a coach, mentor and for many years now, one of my best friends. "He will be looking down on me tonight smiling and be happy for me, so I will try to be happy," said Anderson, who was about to be inducted into the Michigan State Athletics Hall of Fame. Another one of Bob Siddens' top wrestlers, Don Huff, a two-time Iowa titlewinner who later served as an assistant, then successor, to the coaching legend, said, "He was so successful because he could adapt to the wrestler. In the wrestling room, he was all business. And he got you to buy-in. He'd build you up if you were doing something he liked, he'd have you demonstrate it and by the end he had a room full of confident kids." Before Waterloo West, a life as wrestler Robert Saunders Siddens was born on April 29, 1925 in Council Bluffs, Iowa along with a twin brother Charles. The biography "Siddens!" by the aforementioned Don Huff and famous wrestling historian Mike Chapman opens with the story of when five-year-old Bobby and Chuck got a formal introduction to wrestling -- pro wrestling, that is -- at the Civic Auditorium in Omaha, Neb. The twins wrestled each other in the opening match at a 1930 event at the arena "for the Junior Championship of the World." The Siddens family moved to Eagle Grove, Iowa when Bob was young. At Eagle Grove High School, Bob Siddens was a multi-sport athlete, participating in football, baseball, track and wrestling. Bob was a four-time state qualifier, placing second in the Iowa state finals twice. In the fall of 1947 -- after having served his country in World War II -- Siddens enrolled at what was then called Iowa State Teachers College (now University of Northern Iowa) in Cedar Falls. He wrestled for legendary coach Dave McCuskey at 175 pounds. Among his teammates were Gerry Leeman (future Lehigh University coach) and Bill Koll (future Penn State coach, and father of Cornell University coach Rob Koll), both NCAA champion wrestlers who went on to wrestle at the 1948 London Olympics. In fact, Siddens was a college roommate of Koll. Siddens was modest about his on-the-mat career. When inducted into the Des Moines Register Hall of Fame, Siddens said, "I was better than average. When we wrestled strong teams, I often ended up wrestling the other team's weakest man so I could win." Siddens the official Bob Siddens made a name for himself as a high school wrestling coach. However, he also served as a referee for a number of years in NCAA Division I matches, officiating at 27 NCAA national champion events. In fact, Siddens was inducted into the National Referees Hall of Fame, "That is the story that gets lost sometimes," said Kyle Klingman of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame Dan Gable Museum in Waterloo, Iowa, and columnist for WIN (Wrestling Insider Newsmagazine). "As big of an influence as he was on so many wrestlers, he was an influential wrestling official that got a lot of officials into the business." Bob Siddens -- along with Dan Gable -- have been welcomed into a number of halls of fame (Photo/National Wrestling Hall of Fame) Awards and honors Over the course of his long life and successful career, Bob Siddens was showered with numerous awards and honors. One of the most notable: his name graces the gymnasium at Waterloo West High. In addition, Siddens was welcomed into a number of halls of fame, including: The National Wrestling Hall of Fame, the Iowa Wrestling Hall of Fame, Iowa Officials Hall of Fame, United States Wrestling Federation Hall of Fame, National Referees Hall of Fame, the National High School Sports Hall of Fame and the International Wrestling Hall of Fame. Lee Roy Smith, Executive Director of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame, said this of Siddens, who was welcomed into the Hall as a Distinguished Member in 1980 (the same year as Dan Gable): "Bob Siddens is one of the greatest high school coaches of all time,. He created a culture of excellence among his student wrestlers at Waterloo West High School that created not only an Iowa high school wrestling dynasty, but also produced multiple alumni who went on to win NCAA individual titles and Olympic medals. "It is rare for someone who enjoyed so much success as a coach to crossover and become a successful referee at the highest level of our sport," Smith added. "His demeanor and values, both on and off the mat, set the standards for sportsmanship and integrity." Kyle Klingman, Executive Director of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame Dan Gable Museum, said this of Bob Siddens: "He had so much to give and tell. He loved to visit and have conversations with people. We'd introduce him to visitors and they'd have two-hour conversations where they'd get the inside scoop on the psychology of the greatest high school wrestling coach in history. It was a great outlet for his legacy." Bob Siddens is survived by his wife Joyce, six children -- JoEllen, Scott, Todd, Beth, Erica, and Kara -- as well as thirteen grandchildren and one great-grandchild. UPDATE 9/29/18 Visitation will be held Monday, Oct. 1, from 2:00-8:00 p.m. at Locke Funeral Home, 1519 Fourth St., Waterloo, Iowa with funeral services Tuesday, Oct. 2, at 1:00 p.m. at Orchard Hill Church, 3900 Orchard Hill Dr., Cedar Falls. Burial will take place at Waterloo Memorial Park Cemetery with military rites by Iowa Army National Guard Honor Guard, Waterloo AMVETS Post 19 and Evansdale AMVETS Post 31. Memorials may be directed to Waterloo West High School Athletics Department, Waterloo West High School, 425 E. Ridgeway Ave., Waterloo, IA 50702. Condolences may be left at www.LockeFuneralHome.com.

This week HBO announced that it will no longer air boxing. They are divesting from the sport after research showed that it was no longer a reason for individuals to purchase the service (or for that matter, steal a password from family members). Media is a booming business. While habits are changing, there has never been a time in history where information was being consumed at this rate, or by this many people. What HBO is realizing is that their horizontal business approach to media is no longer solvent. The future is in niche and for HBO that is storytelling, not sports. HBO's niche will be wider than most. They produce and pay for movies, documentaries and world-class television. But in recent months -- as takeover attempts have been approved, and now denied -- that niche is expanding so that the channel can carpet as much creative content as possible. Live sports, however, is outside that reach. The future will continue to be shaped by niche providers. Boxing is now being shown on DAZN (Da Zone), where a subscription costs $9.99/month -- pennies to those who enjoy the sport. Wrestling is familiar with the subscription model for streaming. FloSports and SportsEngine/Trackwrestling are providing streams to every match in the United States and the world. We see it all, but we also must pay for it all, putting us all into a decision about how we spend our entertainment money. But for now, you can watch the UFC on FightPass, boxing on DAZN, jiu-jitsu on FloGrappling, and wrestling on Flo and Track. You just might not be able to also afford Hulu, Showtime, basic cable, and of course, HBO. To your questions … Q: Which freshman in Division I will make the most impact on the mat this season? Can any make a run at four NCAA titles? -- Gregg Y. Foley: If we are including the redshirt freshmen, then Daton Fix is my No. 1 in terms of impact on the mat this season. Wrestling at 125 pounds or 133 pounds he is almost assured an All-American plaque and should be in the conversation for a national championship. Winning four championships is never a guarantee, especially given the talent level of freshmen each year, but if he's able to compete at 125 pounds each year I think has a decent chance to put himself into four finals. Gable Steveson is another top freshman, but I'm concerned he will run into some early hiccups against larger competition. His performance at Junior Worlds exposed some vulnerabilities, but there are always a number of factors for these types of performances. Is it indicative of his upcoming NCAA season? Unlikely. I think that he has a style that works well in a seven-minute grind and has proven himself apt from bottom during his collegiate wins in his high school career. Overall, I think that the next four-time champions will come at the edges of the weight classes because there is a lot more new blood (freshmen) at heavyweight and 125 than you would see at 174 pounds. The 125-pound guys typically can't hold their weight for four years, while the upper weights get injured and younger talent always seem to be supplanting established guys at programs. Ethan Lizak rides Nathan Tomasello at the NCAAs (Photo/Mark Beshey, The Guillotine) Q: I love watching Ethan Lizak of Minnesota compete because he's so damn good on top. Nobody wants to go underneath him. He's moving up a weight to 133 pounds. Do you expect him to find the same/similar success at 133 pounds that he had at 125 pounds? Or will he lose some of the length/leverage advantage? -- Mike C. Foley: Case in point on vacating 125 pounds, which makes it an easier climb to established four-year guys to win four-in-a-row. I think that at Lizak's height and wrestling in the lighter weights his leverage will always be a factor, but I do think that he will have a difficult time managing the strength of those slightly bigger opponents who will have an increased chance of fighting out of Lizak's more dominant positions. Q: What can you tell me about the ability for RTC-level wrestlers to compete for nations other than the United States? -- Jason W. Foley: I recently helped another coach out with this process. Overall, it's straightforward, but it will require the buy-in of several stakeholders. First, if the athlete is a dual passport holder he/she is eligible to compete for the other nation. However, if that athlete has already competed for the United States at an international competition they will need to seek guidance from USA Wrestling on transfer (in most cases it is free and painless). As this is being determined, the wrestler needs to also contact the national federation they are interested in representing. While more of the smaller nations may be grateful for some USA talent on their roster, there is often times a process that must be followed. To be eligible for most national teams the athlete will need to compete at the national championships and be registered with a club recognized by the national federation. The national federation itself must also be recognized by United World Wrestling and be in good standing. For example, Trinidad and Tobago doesn't have a national federation infrastructure so anyone looking to compete for them would need that in place first, and for that to be recognized by the Pan Am Council and then United World Wrestling. Assuming that the national federation is eligible, the athlete is eligible, and the athlete wins his or her spot they will then need to register with United World Wrestling and receive their license. Once that is complete they can go to any tournament they want. However, they are limited in Olympic qualification. A nation can only bring to the Olympic Games qualification tournaments as many athletes as appeared at the continental-level event. Good luck to any athletes out there with world and Olympic dreams, and please let me know how I can help get you in touch with the right people. MULTIMEDIA HALFTIME Hakuho might be the greatest wrestler to ever live. Here he is winning his 41st basho. The previous record was 34. The size, strength, and stamina to be a successful sumo is almost unmatched. Competitions every day for 16 days four times a year. Also, he has won a total of more than 1,000 matches. Unreal achievement. Q: I know some Americans like Carson Manville and Emily Shilson are competing at the Youth Olympic Games. What's that event all about? What's the competition like? -- Mike C. Foley: The Youth Olympic Games were established in 2010 as a way for a world of Cadet-level athletes to access the Olympic experience through their competition. The main aim of the IOC was to spread positive message through sport to more regions, and to entrench their Olympic Values in the next generation of athletes. The Olympic values being good sportsmanship, fair play and the rest. Overall, I think the experiment has worked. The 2014 Games in Nanjing were top-of-the-line and while the wins and losses mattered to the athletes a lot of time and energy was spent on creating positive dialogue with the athletes about doping, role models and sport-to-life balance. The Youth Olympic Games also allow for pre-professional Olympic inspiration to take hold in a number of nations and corners of the world where that dream felt too distant. The Youth Olympic Games do this by allocating qualification spots based on region, rather than just performance. In this way the Olympic brand is spread to more nations which generates buy-in and allows the number of invested national federations to grow. One of the keys to the growth of individual sports is financial support from the government, and that happens when there are positive, media-ready moments like those presented at the Youth Olympic Games. Overall the competition is pretty good! There are some mismatches here and there and the brackets are a little smaller than we are used to seeing in wrestling, but the finals usually feature top-level competitors. In fact, Yuki Takahashi was the 2010 champion in freestyle and just won his first world championship in Paris. So, there is a lot of top talent in action, just not end-to-end like you will see at the 2020 Games in Tokyo. Q: Northern Colorado coach Troy Nickerson has landed two of the nation's top 25 recruits in the Class of 2019. Can Northern Colorado eventually become a top-10 program? Or are there too many challenges? What kind of impact would that have on college wrestling? -- Mike C. Foley: I've gone over the most pressing challenges facing new and small programs: institutional funding, exposure to recruits, and alumni support. While I can't speak to the number of scholarships Coach Nickerson is able to utilize or how much he's raising from alumni or friends of the program, the fact he's landing top 25 recruits shows that he has the exposure to make strides. I've never visited the campus, but the idea of going to Northern Colorado sounds incredible. All about that clean mountain air! Q: Who were the biggest draws at the 2017 World Championships? -- @zachjanderson Vinesh Phogat Bajrang Snyder/Sadulaev Burroughs Sakshi Malik

ASU wrestlers participating in Mill Matness in October of 2017 (Photo/ASU Sports Information) TEMPE, Ariz. -- Continuing a long tradition nationwide of celebrating the start of basketball season with a special fan event, Sun Devil men's and women's basketball return to the corner of 7th and Mill Avenue Friday, Oct. 12 at 8:30 pm for Mill Madness. New last year and with an addition this year, Mill Matness -- featuring the two-time reigning Pac-12 Champion Sun Devil wrestling team and, this year, the Sun Devil gymnastics team -- takes place in the same location the night before, Thursday, Oct. 11 at 7:30 pm. Both events are proudly presented by Arizona Ford Dealers. The Arizona Ford Dealers are longtime supporters of ASU athletics and are delighted to celebrate the competitive excellence of ASU student-athletes on the field and in the classroom through the Mill Madness/Matness event. 2017-18 was one of the best years in recent history for Sun Devil men's hoops, the last undefeated team in the nation (12-0), advancing to the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2014 and recording the highest average attendance (10,603) in school history. Women's basketball tied the school records for consecutive NCAA appearances and 20-win seasons (five) a season ago. Last season, ASU wrestling had their first NCAA champion since 2011 (11th all-time) in Zahid Valencia, their first top-10 finish at NCAA's since the same year, and won the Pac-12 Championship for the second consecutive year behind six individual champions. Gymnastics, on the other hand, boasted one of the most substantial turnarounds in collegiate gymnastics history, improving 18 spots in their national finish, making their first team NCAA Regional appearance since 2014, and sending individual all-around qualifier Cairo Leonard-Baker to nationals. Head coaches of both programs that are part of Thursday night's event - Zeke Jones (wrestling) and Jay Santos (gymnastics) - earned Pac-12 Coach of the Year honors in 2018, a second consecutive for Jones. Men's and women's basketball both open their season at home on Tuesday, Nov. 6, the men hosting Cal State Fullerton and the women Incarnate Word. Wrestling and gymnastics schedules will be announced soon. Each night will feature skill challenges, drills, and opportunities to meet the teams while Friday night's event will feature three-point shooting contests and a slam-dunk contest. Both events are free to the public. Nearby parking includes the ASU Stadium (across from Sun Devil Stadium next to Mona Plummer Aquatic Center) and Fulton (300 E University Dr.) garages as well as Tempe's Centerpoint Garage (660 S Mill Ave.).

Gary Taylor (Photo/Rider Sports Information) Former Rider University Wrestling Head Coach Gary Taylor was honored with the Lifetime Service Award from the New Jersey Chapter of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame & Museum on Sept. 16. Taylor, who earned the third most wins all-time in NCAA Division I wrestling history, received the award during a ceremony at The Westin Princeton at Forrestal Village in Plainsboro, N.J. "It is a great honor for Gary and Rider to receive this prestigious award from the National Wrestling Hall of Fame," says Rider Athletic Director Don Harnum. "Gary's career epitomizes what a school hopes for when its hires a coach -- someone who can build a sustainable program that wins, develops, educates and graduates student-athletes, and one that brings positive recognition to the institution." Taylor's illustrious career included 442 wins. He led the Broncs to 14 conference championships and was named conference Coach of the Year nine times. His teams were ranked nationally, year in and year out, and reached a high of No. 7 in the country. Under Taylor's tutelage, 173 Broncs were national qualifiers, while 17 earned All-America honors. Upon Taylor's retirement that followed the 2016-17 season, John Hangey '93, '97 become Rider's head wrestling coach -- only the third in program history. Former Rider Wrestling All-Americans Chad Walsh and Ryan Wolfe are returning this year to serve as assistant coaches. The 2018-19 team is ranked No. 22 in the country by Intermat.

CLARKSVILLE, Ark. -- Vinny Barber was named the volunteer assistant wrestling coach at the University of the Ozarks, it was announced by the athletics department this week. Vinny BarberBarber, a native of Highland, New York, wrestled two seasons at SUNY Oneonta where he led the program in pins as a sophomore. For his career, he posted over 50 wins and over 35 college falls. Barber also spent a season at Centenary College in New Jersey. In addition to his collegiate wrestling career, he has coached 11 State Champions, 36 All-State wrestlers and three Fargo All-Americans. He has coached with Team Texas and is the owner of Barber Wrestling. "Vinny has already been a great asset with his energy," said head coach LeRoy Gardner. "He gives one-hundred percent effort in everything he does. He will not be out worked, and that is definitely a positive example for our team. His experiences competing at the NCAA Division III level mean he understands our model. He knows how important wrestling is as a tool for success in academics, personally and professionally for these guys. He cares deeply for our program and wants our student-athletes to succeed. We're grateful for his dedication to our program and University." Barber starred at Highland High School earning All-State while qualifying for the state championships. "I am extremely excited for the opportunity to work with the University of the Ozarks Wrestling Team," said Barber. "I am looking forward to building off last year's success. I would like to thank Jimmy Clark, LeRoy Gardner and all the staff for this opportunity. The support here combined with the focus on academics and dedication to the University's core values made this an easy decision for me. This is a very exciting time for the wrestling team and all of the athletic department, and I am stoked to be a part of it." The Eagles had two wrestlers qualify for the NCAA Division III National Championships last season in year four of the program's existence.

Dustin Myers Ohio RTC strength coach Dustin Myers joins The MatBoss Podcast for Episode 6. Host Chad Dennis talks to Myers about strength training for wrestlers, nutrition, supplements, Ohio State, Kyle Snyder and much more. Follow Dustin Myers on Instagram at @coachmyers_gutcheck. About MatBoss: Created by coaches for coaches, MatBoss for iPad® integrates wrestling stats directly into the video you record for each match, completely replacing the need for labor-intensive pencil and paper scoring systems. It's the wrestling stats app our sport has been waiting for. Focus on coaching, not busy work Improve through video analysis Make data an advantage Eliminate scoring errors Increase exposure Become a digital coach For more information, visit MatBossApp.com. Follow MatBoss on Twitter and subscribe to the show @MatBossApp | Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Spreaker | Google Play Music | RSS

Jim Heffernan (Photo/Illinois Sports Information) CHAMPAIGN, IL -- Illinois wrestling coach Jim Heffernan was awarded a five-year contract extension that will keep him as head coach of the Fighting Illini program through the 2023 season. "As much as perhaps anyone, Jim Heffernan embodies the values we espouse within our athletic program," said UI Athletics Director Josh Whitman. "He cares first and foremost about his students. He stresses loyalty, work ethic, and competitiveness. All of this while leading one of our most successful and tradition-rich programs. We are excited to reward Jim for his tremendous leadership and look forward to many future years of wrestling success with him at the helm." Heffernan enters his 10th season as head coach at Illinois after serving as the top assistant under Mark Johnson for 19 years. "I am extremely grateful for Josh to offer me this extension" Heffernan said. "Josh has proven to be very supportive of our program and the dedication and commitment shown by our student-athletes." During Heffernan's time in Champaign-Urbana, the Illini have finished in the top-10 at the NCAA championships on 13 occasions, and in the top-15 in 19 of the last 21 seasons. Heffernan has also mentored nine individual national champions in the last 18 seasons. With back-to-back national titles in 2015 and 2016, 157-pounder Isaiah Martinez joined Jesse Delgado (125), Matt Lackey (165), Adam Tirapelle (149, 2001), John Lockhart (heavyweight, 2001), Carl Perry (141, 2000), Eric Siebert (150, 1998), Ernest Benion, Jr. (158, 1995) and Steve Marianetti (150, 1995) in earning NCAA titles since 1995. In 2005, Heffernan assisted Illinois in bringing home its first Big Ten Championships team title in 53 years.

MANHEIM, Pa. -- The NWCA is proud to announce that ARMS Software, the fastest growing technology company in the college athletics industry which currently works with over 100 university athletic departments across the country, will be a Presenting Sponsor for the 53rd NWCA All-Star Classic. This year's All-Star Classic will be held on Friday night, Nov. 2 inside Denver, Colorado's famous National Western Complex Stadium Arena. The 53rd installment of the Classic is being hosted by Rocky Mountain Nationals, NUWAY, and the University of Northern Colorado's wrestling program. NWCA Executive Director, Mike Moyer excitedly shared, "We are thrilled to have arms software, a trusted partner of so many intercollegiate wrestling programs and athletic departments, step up to be our presenting sponsor. CEO Mike Hurt is an extraordinary leader and he has been instrumental in supporting our efforts to establish new college wrestling programs." The All-Star Classic will feature nationally ranked high school and collegiate wrestlers in front of what is expected to be a sold-out and highly energetic crowd which will include mat side VIP tables. Matchups for the event will be released throughout the month of October as event promotion swings into full gear. "We are proud to be able to partner with the NWCA to bring the 53rd All-Star Classic to Denver, CO.  ARMS works with wrestling coaches and their entire athletic departments daily to provide them with the best software solutions on the market and we are always striving to bring great value to the wrestling community and all of athletics.  Being a part of this wonderful event is a great way for us to show our support to them and help them kick off what will be a great 2018-19 season," said Mike Hurt, CEO - ARMS Software Tickets are currently available at www.rmnevents.com while Trackwrestling will provide a live broadcast for $14.99. #AllStarClassic About National Wrestling Coaches Association (NWCA) The National Wrestling Coaches Association, established in 1928, is a non-profit organization for the advancement of all levels of the sport of wrestling with a primary emphasis on developing coaches who work in academic environments.   The membership embraces all people interested in amateur wrestling.  The three core competencies of the NWCA are: coaching development, student-athlete welfare, and the promotion of wrestling. About ARMS Software The ARMS team is a group of veteran proven technology entrepreneurs that have built some of the most successful software companies in North America over the past 20 years. This group has also built some of the largest and most famous software systems in the world for companies like GEICO, Apple, Nike, Bank of America, and all the major train companies in North America to name a few. Along with this technology expertise, the ARMS leadership team has been involved in college athletics as student-athletes, administrators, university board members, and major philanthropists for decades. ARMS is the culmination of these experiences and has a singular mission to change the future of college athletics administration forever. ARMS Software is the most innovative, fastest growing technology company in the college athletics industry and is currently working with over 100 university athletic departments across the country with dozens of new clients being added every quarter.

Michael Hughes (Photo/Hofstra Sports Information) Hempstead, N.Y. -- Hofstra head wrestling coach Dennis Papadatos today announced that Hofstra alumnus and 2018 NCAA All-American Michael Hughes has been appointed volunteer assistant coach for the wrestling team in 2018-19. "We are delighted to have Mike back in the wrestling room with us, now as a coach," Papadatos said. "During his five years with the program he has been an inspiration to his teammates, both on the mat and off, with his positive attitude, great work ethic and community spirit. All of his hard work paid off last March with him earning All-American honors at the NCAA Championships in Cleveland to cap off an outstanding career. I have no doubt that he will be a great addition to our coaching staff." Hughes, a native of Smithtown, New York, placed sixth in the 2018 NCAA Division I Championships by posting a 5-3 record to earn his first All-America honor. He became the first Hofstra heavyweight All-American since Joel Kislin placed third in 1973 and the 19th Pride wrestler (30 total All-Americans) to climb the All-American victory stand. While the All-American award was the icing on the cake, Hughes recorded both an amazing senior season and career. He recorded a 39-6 final record including an 8-0 mark in Eastern Intercollegiate Wrestling Association dual matches and a 19-0 dual match slate. Hughes, who had winning streaks of 18 matches and 16 matches, posted 102 team points on his own on 19 wins by fall, 11 wins by decision, two tech falls and three major decisions. At the conclusion of the NCAA Championships, Hughes received the NCAA Division I Award for Most Pins during the 2017-18 season. Hughes' 39 victories in 2017-18 are the sixth-most in a single season in school history. In addition, Hughes finished his career with 115 victories, tying him with James Strouse (2002-07) and Tom Noto (1999-2004) for eighth-place on the all-time Pride career victory list. The two-time NCAA Championship qualifier was also selected the 2018 Hofstra Student-Athlete of the Year Hughes, who received his Hofstra bachelor's degree in physical education in May 2017 and is currently completing work on a master's degree, has served as a counselor at the Hofstra Summer Camps from 2013 through 2018 as well as the Smithtown West Booster Camp from 2016 through 2018. He was also President of the Hofstra Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) as a senior and was involved with many charitable endeavors during his tenure including the Ruff House Rescue (2014-18), the Girl Scout Walkathon (2014-18), Reading with Pride (2014-18) and St. Patrick's Volunteer Softball Coach (2011-13). Hughes was a three-time (2016-18) recipient of the Hofstra Pride Community Service Award.

A GoFundMe page has been established for a Michigan high school wrestling coach who was seriously injured in a "horrific" car crash three weeks ago. Corey Dwenger, mat coach at Hemlock High School near Saginaw, was involved in a crash on US 10 on Wednesday, Sept. 5. He suffered a traumatic brain injury, including severe damage to the temporal lobe of his brain, which resulted in loss of speech and vocabulary comprehension. Dwenger, who wrestled at Hemlock before becoming coach, spent 16 days in the Neuro-Trauma ICU before being transferred to a rehabilitation facility late last week. Dwenger is expected to spend the next eight weeks at that facility. Dwenger's wife Rebecca told WNEM that her husband has started physical therapy and was walking on Monday. As the GoFundMe page states, there are many challenges facing coach Dwenger, his wife Rebecca, and their two young daughters. "The first 3 weeks after Corey's accident, his wife Becky has been unable to work as she was at the hospital helping care and comfort Corey and their two young daughters. Now as Becky learns and adjusts to her new reality there are many every day and unforeseen expenses she wasn't prepared to handle alone. Some of the unforeseen expenses are the renovations that will need to be done to make the home safe for Corey to return home. Each day the costs are adding up as we learn more and more about what we will need to care for him once he returns home. That is in addition to the everyday expenses and the travel costs to see him until he comes home." To contribute to the GoFundMe page for Coach Corey Dwenger, click here.

Sam Stoll competing at the NCAAs (Photo/Mark Beshey, The Guillotine) University of Iowa heavyweight Sam Stoll will be suspended for the Hawkeyes' first out-of-town dual meet, head coach Tom Brands announced at the Grid Club in Davenport, Iowa Monday afternoon. Iowa will be traveling to Kent State University, a Mid-American Conference school in northeast Ohio, for a dual meet on Friday, Nov. 9 "Sam Stoll is ready to roll," Brands said. "He's moving forward... He will be suspended that first date when we go to Kent State." As InterMat reported, Stoll was involved in a gun incident in mid-June. The 2018 NCAA All-American originally told Iowa City police that he had accidently shot himself in the knee at his home on June 19. However, two weeks later, the Iowa senior redacted his original statement to police, saying he had played a prank on a friend at his friend's home. Stoll had surgery on the knee that day, and was released from the hospital the following day. He was later charged with filing a "false report to a public entity" -- namely, the Iowa City Police. At that time, head coach Tom Brands issued the following statement: "As I shared previously, Sam Stoll's health was our number one concern and he is doing well. I am disappointed in his actions related to this incident, as they do not reflect our values. Regarding discipline, we will follow all University and Athletics Department code of conduct policies."

Kyle Crutchmer, 2017 NCAA All-American wrestler for Oklahoma State, is slated to have his third professional mixed martial arts fight this Saturday, just three months after making his pro debut. Kyle CrutchmerCrutchmer will be facing Brandon Wright at XFN 352 on Sept. 29 at River Spirit Casino Resort in Tulsa, Okla. The Crutchmer-Wright welterweight (170-pound) bout is one of four fights which will be available on UFC Fight Pass live streaming service. Here's what Crutchmer posted on his Facebook page: "September 29th I'm coming to Tulsa Oklahoma to get down for the 3rd time in 3 months ! Don't miss out! I am ready to put on another performance for you guys!! TULSA ALWAYS!! #letsgooo" Crutchmer made is pro MMA debut June 9 at XFN 348, where he dispatched Ronald Beasley with a guillotine choke at 1:03 of Round 1. Two months later, the former Cowboy defeated Rock Rosas with an arm-triangle choke in the second round. Wright launched his MMA career as an amateur in Dec. 2015, turning pro in June 2016. He is 2-3 in his professional career, having lost his most recent fight June 16 to Jared McLaughlin via second-round submission. "I'm still new to this sport, I'm not going to go out there and predicting first round knockouts and all that s---.," Crutchmer told MyMMANews.com . "I just want people to enjoy watching me fight." Despite seemingly being on a fast-track MMA career, the former Oklahoma State mat star appears to be taking things in stride... despite having definite career goals. "I think what's happened is we have a plan," said Crutchmer. "I don't know if I'll ever be in Bellator, I don't know if I'll ever be in the UFC, but right now I am aiming to try and make it to the UFC. I think that's what our plan is with my management team. "Still open option, no close doors, I'm still early in my career. It just depends on how everything plays out in the next couple months."

Just over a decade ago, a former wrestler and volunteer coach at a suburban Cincinnati high school, John Harris, was murdered. However, his memory lives on in a fundraiser next month to benefit the wrestling program at his alma mater. John HarrisThe John Harris "No Excuses" Memorial Fundraiser will take place Saturday, Oct 20 from 6-10 p.m. at the Sharonville Convention Center, 11355 Chester Road, Sharonville, Ohio in the northern suburbs of Cincinnati, just up the street from Princeton High School where Harris wrestled for the Vikings, then later returned to the school to help coach the mat program. Donation tickets are just $10 each. However, donations in any amount are welcome, with all proceeds designated to support the Princeton High wrestling program. Here's how Peggy Harris, mother of John Harris, described her son's situation to InterMat: "Becoming a member of the Princeton wrestling team had a strong impact on John's life; it became his passion. After graduating from Princeton High School, John became a plumber. After a hard day's work, John would volunteer his time by stopping in to work with the kids on the team. He hoped to coach full time one day. "John wanted to help young men see how wrestling could be used as a positive outlet for them," Peggy Harris continued. "He wanted to show how wrestling could relieve tension, aggression and pressure that so many youth undergo on a daily basis." "Before John's dream could be fully realized, his life was cut short. He was senselessly murdered while getting out of his car after work, while coming home on June 7, 2007." The idea of the John Harris "No Excuses" fundraiser is to keep his dream alive... by helping young athletes realize the benefits of participating in the Viking wrestling program at Princeton High School in Cincinnati. To learn more about the Princeton High wrestling program and its John Harris "No Excuses" fundraiser, visit the Cincinnati Princeton Wrestling Facebook page.

There was a fair amount of coaching changes during the recent off season. Several high-profile Division I wrestling programs will feature new head coaches for the 2018-2019 season. The following is what fans can expect from new men leading their squads. Binghamton: Kyle Borshoff 2018 Dual Record: 12-5 2018 NCAA Team Points: 0.5 Former head coach Matt Dernlan resigned last December, and Borshoff took over in the middle of the season. As acting head coach, he directed the fighting Billy Baldwins down the stretch. The squad won eight of their last nine dual matches and advanced two wrestlers, Frankie Garcia and Steven Schneider, to the NCAA tournament. This season, Garcia is back for his senior year, and former blue chip recruit Louie DePrez will come out of redshirt. DePrez went 28-4 during his redshirt season. He will represent the U.S. in freestyle at the Junior World Championships this weekend. The Bearcats have established themselves as a strong mid-tier team in recent years. Under their new coach, fans should expect a solid dual record and a handful of NCAA qualifiers. Chattanooga: Kyle Ruschell 2018 Dual Record: 8-7 2018 NCAA Team Points: 2.5 The Mocs will turn to Kyle Ruschell after former coach Heath Eslinger moved on this past July. Last season, Chattanooga went 6-1 in conference and finished second in the SoCon tournament behind Appalachian State. They advanced three to the NCAA tournament where the now-graduated Bryce Carr fell in the blood round and finished one match away from becoming an All-American. Ruschell spent the last eight seasons at Wisconsin. There he helped coach five All-Americans, including four-time All-American Isaac Jordan. Alonzo Allen (125) is the only returning NCAA qualifier for the Mocs. However, they will receive a boost in the form of Tanner Smith who will take over at 149 after transferring. Last year, during his redshirt year, he went 20-0 while competing for the now defunct Eastern Michigan team. Appalachian State lost their best wrestler to graduation, but they should still be the class of the SoCon. If Ruschell can get results from a few unheralded guys, they might be able to make a run at the conference title. It will also be interesting to see what he does in terms of recruiting. Chattanooga may not have the history of bigger programs, but they host the annual Southern Scuffle, which brings a lot of eyes to the program. Cleveland State: Josh Moore 2018 Dual Record: 3-10 2018 NCAA Team Points: 0 Ben Stehura walked away from the Cleveland State program last March. Two months later, the athletic department decided to promote from within and elevated Josh Moore. Moore had been the primary assistant for the last three seasons for the Vikings. Last season was a tough one for Cleveland State. They won only three dual matches and one of those came against a Division III opponent. The squad finished sixth out of seven at the EWL tournament and advanced a single wrestler to the NCAA tournament. Expectations are not very high for Moore's first season at the helm. However, there are reasons for optimism in The Rock and Roll Capital of the World. Ohio remains one of the most fertile recruiting grounds in wrestling. Plus, Moore's twin brother Scott has shown the levels an EWL program can reach while coaching at Lock Haven. Edinboro: Matt Hill 2018 Dual Record: 8-5 2018 NCAA Team Points: 7 Of all the coaches on this list, Hill might face the steepest uphill battle. Tim Flynn resigned last April. Athletic director Bruce Baumgartner also moved into a new position with Edinboro. The offseason of change continued with several high- profile transfers out of the program. Sean Russell, Korbin Myers, Andrew Shomers, Dakota Greer and Billy Miller all left the school since last season. Hill wrestled under Flynn at Edinboro from 2002-2007. Following his competitive career, he entered coaching. Most of Hill's collegiate experience came at Kent State where he served as an assistant. At Kent State, he coached Dustin Kilgore to an NCAA title. Edinboro will feature an almost entirely new lineup this season. They might take their lumps, but the schedule is not as tough as it has been in the past. Outside of the EWL, they will face Wyoming and Oklahoma in marquee duals. Indiana: Angel Escobedo 2018 Dual Record: 6-10 2018 NCAA Team Points: 1.5 During his 26 years as the head coach at Indiana, Duane Goldman coached two wrestlers to NCAA titles, Joe Dubuque (twice) and the man who will replace him, Angel Escobedo. Prior to this assignment, Escobedo only had four years of coaching experience. After graduating, he spent three years as an assistant under Kevin Jackson at Iowa State. Last season, he returned to Bloomington and acted as chief second. Last year, Indiana finished 13th at the Big Ten tournament and failed to win a dual in conference. Their second winningest wrestler from last season, Devin Skatzka, left the squad and transferred to conference rival Minnesota. This year, the Hoosiers will lean heavily on seniors Elijah Oliver, Cole Weaver, Jake Danishek and Bryce Martin, but they will likely remain in the bottom half of the Big Ten. Escobedo should bring some new energy to the program, but he will need to pick up some wins on the recruiting trail. He is off to a good start as he has scored a commit from InterMat's 74th ranked recruit Luke Baughman (Wadsworth, Ohio). Little Rock: Neil Erisman Presbyterian: Mark Cody When the 2019-2020 season kicks off there will be two new Division I programs. Erisman man will lead the new program at Little Rock after spending the last four seasons as an assistant at North Carolina. He previously served as an assistant as his alma mater, Oklahoma State. Erisman will get the chance to literally build from the ground up as the athletic department announced the construction of a new facility, and he will need to recruit an entire team from scratch. After coaching American to a fifth-place finish at the NCAA tournament, Cody eventually moved to Oklahoma. He never really broke through there, but he coached Kendric Maple and Cody Brewer to titles. Cody left the Sooners in 2016 and was linked to multiple positions before landing at Presbyterian. His ability to rebuild the program at American should make Presbyterian an attractive destination for fans and recruits in the near future. Sean Bormet coaching at the NCAAs (Photo/Tony Rotundo, WrestlersAreWarriors.com) Michigan: Sean Bormet 2018 Dual Record: 11-3 2018 NCAA Team Points: 80 Of all the new head coaches on this list, Bormet certainly walks into the best position. Michigan finished tied for fourth at the NCAA tournament last season and returns significant portions of their roster. Joe McFarland retired following the season after 19 years on the job. Bormet had been the top assistant. The squad this year returns six starters and adds two new starters, former Iowa State wrestler Kanen Storr and blue-chip recruit Jelani Embree. Michigan will certainly have a strong season and might be headed towards another trophy performance at the NCAA tournament in Bormet's first year. Damion Hahn (left) coaching with Gabe Dean (Photo/Tony Rotundo, WrestlersAreWarriors.com) South Dakota State: Damion Hahn 2018 Dual Record: 14-2 2018 NCAA Team Points: 42 Former coach Chris Bono moved on to Wisconsin this past offseason. Hahn, who has been one of the hottest names in coaching for years, did not have to wait long for a call. He signed on to coach the Jackrabbits this past April. Prior to this posting, Hahn served as an assistant at Cornell for 12 seasons. During his time there, the Big Red finished in the top ten at the NCAA tournament 11 times. This past season, Seth Gross became the first Division I champion in South Dakota State, and the school's first champion at any level since Paul Konechne won a Division II title in 2001. Gross will be back for Hahn's first season, but they will need to replace four seniors from last year. Also, Connor Brown, last year's start at 125 pounds, followed Coach Bono to Wisconsin. Hahn has the coaching chops to be successful at South Dakota State. Their move into the Big 12 has upped their recruiting profile, and they should be in good shape even after losing their head coach. Wisconsin: Chris Bono 2018 Dual Record: 7-5 2018 NCAA Team Points: 27.5 Bono's move from South Dakota State to Wisconsin is probably the most intriguing coaching change of the offseason. At SDSU, Bono built a program that has been able to compete with some of the best teams in the country. At Wisconsin, the mission is to contend for titles. Barry Davis announced that he would resign prior to the NCAA tournament last season. During his time with the program, he coached 26 All-Americans and three NCAA champions. Bono is coming off a season where he was named Big 12 Coach of the Year and led SDSU to a 12th-place finish at the NCAA tournament. He has already made an impact on the Wisconsin lineup as Connor Brown followed him from SDSU to Madison. Also, former Oklahoma State Tristan Moran recently transferred to the program. Wisconsin also returned multiple NCAA qualifiers and former top recruits including Cole Martin, Zander Wick, Evan Wick, Ryan Christensen and Trent Hillger. Bono has always been a strong recruiter, and it will be interesting to see if he takes a step forward in that regard now that he is at a Big Ten school. VMI: Jim Gibson 2018 Dual Record: 2-11 2018 NCAA Team Points: N/A The Keydets needed a reboot, and Gibson will certainly get his chance to turn things around. VMI went 2-11 last season with their only two wins coming against conference foes The Citadel and Davidson. They finished ahead of only Davidson at the SoCon tournament and were led by a pair of sophomores, Cade Kiely and Chris Beck, who finished fourth at the tournament. Gibson comes to VMI after spending his last six years at Bucknell. There, he helped the team set the record for most dual wins in a season, 15, in the 2014-2015 season. He has already assembled his staff, which will feature former Edinboro wrestler Ty Schoffstall and recent Bucknell graduate Tyler Smith. Next year should be another tough season for the Keydets. In addition to their conference schedule, they also face off against Bucknell, Buffalo, Lock Haven and Virginia in duals. West Virginia: Tim Flynn 2018 Dual Record: 6-7 2018 NCAA Team Points: 11.5 The West Virginia athletic department seems determined to have a strong wrestling team. They made a significant investment in their facilities and made a big-splash hire of Sammie Henson four years ago. Unfortunately for the Mountaineers, things never really clicked with Henson, and he was removed from duty last March. The following month, WVU announced that Flynn would become the ninth coach in school history. During his 21 years at Edinboro, he coached 150 national qualifiers and 38 All-Americans. His teams finished in the top-25 at the NCAA tournament 18 times. It may take a few seasons for Flynn to get some new blood in the program. Most of the lineup returns for this season highlighted by NCAA qualifier Matthew Schmitt. A lot of the teams in the Big 12 are ascending at this point, so West Virginia will likely have some tough duals. However, Flynn has proven himself as a program builder, and he will likely have success in Morgantown.

The 2019 World Championships will be held in Astana, Kazakhstan's capital city CORSIER-SUR-VEVEY, Switzerland -- United World Wrestling has announced the city of Astana will host the 2019 Senior Wrestling World Championships September 14-22 at the Daulet Arena. The Kazakhstan capital city has hosted several United World Wrestling events in recent years, including the 2014 Senior Asian Wrestling Championships, 2016 Asian Olympic Qualifier, and the 2018 Grappling World Championships. "We were very pleased with the presentation put on by the Organizing Committee from the city of Astana," said United World Wrestling president Nenad Lalovic. "With our success at the championships last year in Paris, and the upcoming championships in Budapest, I have every confidence that Astana will deliver an excellent event for our athletes, coaches, and fans." Competition to host the championships was intense, as the 2019 world championships will serve as the first qualification event for the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo. The top six finishers in each Olympic weight category in Astana will secure an Olympic qualification for their nation, with the remaining qualification spots earned at continental competitions and a "Last Chance Qualifier" during the 2020 competition calendar. "The Wrestling World Championships are a major event and will help popularize wrestling in Kazakhstan and the region," said Kazakhstan Wrestling Federation president Sauat Mynbayev. "We are excited to host the championships in Astana and are confident they will be remembered to you as one of the best sporting events and will receive positive feedback from fans." Tickets for the 2019 World Championships are expected to go on sale in January.

Mekhi Lewis (Photo/ Kadir Caliskan) TRNAVA, Slovakia -- Mekhi Lewis is three-for-three in winning freestyle tournaments as he claimed Junior World gold on Sunday night at the 2018 Junior World Championships in Trnava, Slovakia. Just picking up freestyle this summer, Lewis, a wrestler at Virginia Tech, has eased into the style, cruising to the World finals and picking up a decisive 5-1 victory for gold at 74 kilograms. "I feel great. I thought I could do it, but being in the moment and accomplishing that goal feels amazing," Lewis said. "After all the hard work I put in this summer to learn freestyle and now to be a World champion is the best feeling in the world." In the championship bout, Lewis went head-to-head with 2016 Cadet world champion Abubakr Abakarov of Azerbaijan. The Azeri was on the board first with a point on passivity. However, shortly after the shot clock ran out, Lewis scored a takedown and took a 2-1 lead into the break. The second period saw Lewis pick up two points on step outs for a 4-1 advantage. One of those step outs came when Abakarov was in deep on a shot and Lewis shook him off and threw him out of bounds. That's when Lewis said he knew he had it won. Read complete story on TheMat.com …

Bill Racich, head wrestling coach at Ursinus College since 1980 and one of the all-time winningest college mat coaches in the nation, died Friday, according to the Pennsylvania-based school. Bill RacichRacich ranked fourth among all-time collegiate wrestling coaches in all divisions -- and second among active coaches -- with 540 victories at the end of last season. By any measure, Racich's accomplishments as coach were impressive. The Bears won 11 Centennial Conference championships, including five in a row from 2003-07 to become the only school in league history to accomplish that feat. Racich coached 56 Centennial Conference champions and over two hundred Middle Atlantic and Centennial Conference placewinners. With Racich at the helm, Ursinus could claim 17 NCAA All-Americans and two CoSIDA Academic All-Americans. In addition, five Ursinus wrestlers have won the prestigious Chris Clifford Award, while six others were named Outstanding Wrestler at the conference championships. Prior to becoming wrestling coach, Racich was a standout athlete. At West Chester University, he was a four-year varsity performer and a team captain in 1974-75. He was a four-time conference finalist and a two-time NCAA Division I qualifier. In 1974 Racich won the 118-pound Middle Atlantic Conference championship, and his West Chester team was MAC champions in 1971, 1972 and 1974. In 1975, Racich was the East Coast Conference Champion at 126 pounds and captained the team that defeated Minnesota, Northwestern, Purdue, Illinois, and Indiana on a Midwest tour. In 1978 he placed fourth in the USA National Open Freestyle Championships at 136.5 pounds, helping his New York Athletic Club win United States Wrestling Federation Championships. In addition to his wrestling accomplishments, Racich was a high-level rugby player since competing for Plymouth-Whitemarsh High School in 1971, and a founding member of the West Chester University Rugby Club. For all his accomplishments, Bill Racich is a member of the Conshohocken Sports Hall of Fame (1986), West Chester Wrestling Hall of Fame, Philadelphia-Whitemarsh Rugby Hall of Fame (1999), Plymouth-Whitemarsh Distinguished Graduates Hall of Fame, Ursinus College Hall of Fame for Athletes (2001), Southeast Pennsylvania Wrestling Hall of Fame (2003), Pennsylvania Wrestling Coaches Association Hall of Fame (2003), and the Division III National Wrestling Coaches Association Hall of Fame (2003). Earlier this year, Racich was honored with the Lifetime Service to Wrestling award from the Pennsylvania Chapter of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame. "Bill always used to talk and joke about 'living the dream' and how great it was to coach kids," said Ursinus Director of Athletics Laura Moliken. "He'd say, 'they don't' really change; you just have to adjust how you teach the sport.'" "Every time we spoke, he couldn't help but gush and show pictures of his granddaughter wearing dresses and bows and wondering if she might be a wrestler one day." In announcing his sudden passing, Ursinus' statement read, "A coach for the better part of four decades, Racich brought an incredible enthusiasm for his role as a teacher and mentor, and leaves behind a legion of student-athletes who were forever changed for the better by his presence." Respected Pennsylvania wrestling writer and historian Tom Elling told InterMat, "He was widely respected by all who knew him not only as a wrestling person but as a human being. I am so glad we inducted him (into the Pa. Chapter of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame) before this stunning and tragic death took place." Some of Bill Racich's past wrestlers shared their memories of their coach on his Facebook page. "Bill Racich was literally Superman," wrote Matt Cubbler. "He was in his mid-60's and looked like he was in his mid-40's. He could out run, out jump and out work every kid on his wrestling team at Ursinus College. His joy for life, his passion for traveling and his commitment to his wife, Julia and son, Cole was unmatched. He had that inner drive that most men can only dream of possessing - myself included. He was a long-time friend, mentor and client that I looked forward to seeing every single week. And now he is gone and it sucks." "Coach, you made such a positive impact on my life as well as so many others," wrote Mark Barber. "I can't even count the number of times that I have thought to myself, 'Man, life is hard but I've been prepared for this, I really need to thank Coach Racich for knowing how to push us through the hard times while also providing the support system when necessary.' You took care of us when we were sick, weak and in need of a friend or even father figure. You were the first one to congratulate someone on accomplishments outside of the wrestling room. You taught us about priorities and what is important in life. I will forever be thankful for the years I got to spend as one of your wrestlers. Love you Coach." Bill Racich is survived by his wife Julia (affectionately known as Jules) and son Cole. UPDATE 9/25/2018 Funeral arrangements for Coach Racich have been announced. His funeral service will be held on Saturday, Sept. 29, 2018 at 10:00 a.m. in the Fieldhouse at Ursinus College, 601 E. Main St., Collegeville, Pa. Interment will follow in Calvary Cemetery, West Conshohocken. There will be no visitation prior to the service. Following the interment, a reception will be held in the Fieldhouse . Those attending the funeral service and burial are asked to park in the West Lot at the college. The entrance to the West Lot is located off 9th Ave., Collegeville. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Wrestling Program at Ursinus College, c/o the Ursinus College Advancement Office, 601 E Main St, Collegeville, PA 19426.

Bryce Abbey Two minutes, eight seconds. That's the amount of time it took Bryce Abbey, four-time NCAA Division II All-American wrestler at University of Nebraska-Kearney, to be crowned champ on the CBS reality series "TKO: Total Knock Out" Battle Royale edition Friday night. The episode featured the five fastest finishers from previous episodes of the Kevin Hart-hosted summer series where contestants tried to complete an oversized obstacle course while their opponents were actively trying to thwart their efforts. Abbey had the fastest time from the August 17 broadcast, earning $50,000... and the opportunity to compete in the season finale for a grand prize of $100,000. Abbey, who wrestled for the UNK Lopers from 2002-05, was second of the contestants to compete on the TKO Battle Royale obstacle course, which the University of Nebraska-Kearney News website described as "where other contestants toss oversize Frisbees and large spikes, fire foam balls and swing giant hammers in an attempt to slow their opponents down." Abbey completed the course in 2 minutes, 8 seconds... besting second-place finisher Brandon Beem of Iowa by just eleven seconds. Another contestant finished in 2:33... while another took 4:09 to reach the finish line. (A fifth contestant was unable to finish because of a wrist injury.) Abbey watched the broadcast with approximately 125 friends and family members, fully aware of the outcome -- the shows were recorded in Los Angeles earlier this summer -- but not wanting to ruin the surprise for everyone else. Once Kevin Hart identified Abbey as the winner of the Battle Royale -- and a total of $150,000 ($50,000 for the first episode, $100,000 as Battle Royale winner) -- friends lifted Abbey in the air as the crowd at his VIP party erupted in cheers. “Everybody was so excited. The intensity of the room was so awesome,” Abbey told UNK News. “I had trouble controlling my emotions, but I didn't want to let everybody know the outcome before the end.” “It's been so hard. I've been wanting to share it with so many people." "Being part of this is so amazing,” Abbey continued. “My kids have been awesome. My family has been awesome. To get to do, and celebrate, something like this is indescribable.” Friends lifted the four-time 125-pound All-American in the air as the crowd at his VIP party erupted in cheers. Abbey, who wrestled for the UNK Lopers from 2002-05, is one of just four wrestlers tor the D2 program to become a four-time All-American. Now an administrator at his alma mater, Abbey was welcomed into the UNK Athletic Hall of Fame just last year.

Two months after signing with Brave Combat Federation, 2011 NCAA Division I champion wrestler Bubba Jenkins now owns the organization's featherweight (145-pound) title. The former Penn State wrestler turned Arizona State mat champ took the belt from defending champ Elias Boudegzdame in a unanimous five-round decision as a co-main event at Brave 16 in Abu Dhabi on Friday. It's Jenkins' first major title in his pro MMA career launched in December 2011. "Five rounds of wrestling domination was all Bubba Jenkins needed to wrest the Brave featherweight belt from defending champ Elias Boudegzdame," is how MMA-Today described the fight. "'Smile' went to work trying to attack with submissions, which have been an Achilles' heel for Bubba in the past, but never came close to finishing in the early rounds," MMA-Today continued. "Elias landed his hardest shots of the fight in round 2, an illegal knee at the start of the frame and an illegal upkick late; those two fouls forced ref Leon Roberts to step in and take a point. Jenkins gamely fought onward, and even toughed out a really tight-looking heel hook that Boudegzdame threatened with late in a last-gasp effort late in the 4th round." With the win, Jenkins has a 13-4 overall record... and the Brave featherweight title belt... while Boudegzdame falls to 15-5. After winning the championship, Jenkins posted this message on his Facebook page: "I still don't have the words, but here's what I will say: I heard THEM... I heard THEM murmur and whisper against me, I heard THEM say I wouldn't be able, I heard THEM say I couldn't, and wouldn't, I heard THEM say I'm too confident and mouthy, I even heard THEM say my best days are behind me..." Jenkins had signed with Brave in late July 2018... then, two weeks later, the organization announced that the former college star would be vying for their welterweight title. He had competed for Bellator from July 2013 to August 2016, then had a couple fights with ACB (Absolute Championship Berkut).

Daton Fix bounced back to win a bronze medal (Photo/Kadir Caliskan) TRNAVA, Slovakia -- The USA Junior men's freestyle team finished Saturday night's session with two silver and two bronze medals in Trnava, Slovakia. Claiming silver medals were Aaron Brooks at 79 kilograms and Zach Elam at 97 kilograms. 2017 Cadet world champion Brooks had a back-and-forth battle with Hayato Ishiguro, who was third at the Japanese Senior World Trials. The bout ended with 21 points on the board and an 11-10 win for Ishiguro. Brooks scored first with a takedown, but Ishiguro responded quickly with a takedown and gut wrench. At the break, Brooks led on criteria, 4-4. The second period saw points flying, which included three takedowns and exposure. With only 10 seconds remaining, Brooks held a 10-9 advantage. Ishiguro was in on a shot and came out the back door, standing and put Brooks down for two on exposure. Read complete story on TheMat.com ...

Aaron Brooks gets his hand raised (Photo/ Max Rose-Fyne, United World Wrestling) TRNAVA, Slovakia -- 2017 Cadet world champion Aaron Brooks and international newcomer Zach Elam strolled into the Junior World finals on Friday night in Trnava, Slovakia, while 2017 Junior world champion Daton Fix was upended in the 57 kg semis. After a successful morning session, Brooks kept it rolling, defeating two-time age-group World bronze medalist Orhan Abasov of Azerbaijan. Brooks led Abasov, 5-0, scoring on steps out and cautions. With less than 30 seconds left, Abasov, who had been dinged twice for head butting, was hit with his third caution of the match, ending the bout immediately and advancing Brooks to the finals at 79 kilograms. Read complete story on TheMat.com …

Scottie Boykin, Hunter Gamble, Kyle Ruschell and Nick Brascetta New University of Tennessee at Chattanooga wrestling head coach Kyle Ruschell officially announced his staff for the 2018-19 season today. These changes have been in place since he was hired on Aug. 10, and include familiar faces. Former All-American Nick Brascetta is elevated to the top assistant position, while Hunter Gamble moves from volunteer to full-time assistant coach. Former Southern Conference Champion and UTC alum Scottie Boykin joins the group as the volunteer coach. All three are currently pursuing Master's degrees at UTC. "I am very excited about this group," stated Ruschell. "They all have a passion for wrestling and you can tell they all care about our student-athletes. "We have been working hard over the last month to prepare for the upcoming season, and it is evident that they have the knowledge and skills to help continue to winning tradition of our program." Brascetta is a 2016 graduate of Virginia Tech and is entering his third year with the Mocs. He came to Chattanooga as the Coordinator of Student-Athlete Development and was elevated to assistant coach last season. "Nick and I hit it off from the beginning," stated Ruschell. He has a great reputation as a wrestler and is growing his resume as a coach. He has a strong attention to detail on the administrative side of things and will be a tremendous asset to me for years to come." Gamble is in his second year at Chattanooga after a standout career at Gardner-Webb. He spent last season as the volunteer assistant. Gamble was the 2013 SoCon Champion at 174 pounds and was an All-SoCon pick and two-time finalist in his other three years with the Bulldogs. "Hunter is great for our guys in the room," added Ruschell. "He was a tremendous Southern Conference wrestling and brings a championship mentality to every workout." Boykin was a two-time SoCon Champion during his UTC career (2014-18), making three appearances at the NCAA Championships. He graduated with a degree in Sport Administration in 2017 and was a Dean's List honoree throughout his career. "I am excited to have the opportunity to keep Scottie around," said Ruschell. "The guys have a tremendous amount of respect for him and he can help set the tone for success, both on and off the mat." The Mocs open the 2018-19 season with the Blue-Gold Match at the First Tennessee Pavilion prior to the Homecoming football game against VMI on Oct. 27. The first home dual is against North Carolina on Nov. 11. Season tickets are on sale now on GoMocs.com through the "Tickets" tab at the top of the page.