InterMat Staff

Jake Herbert was in the stands for the majority of last week's Grapple in the Apple. The Pennsylvania native and 2009 World silver medalist was taking it all in alongside Kyle Dake, Bubba Jenkins, and three well-heeled businessmen in dark suits and side-parts. "What the hell is going on?" asked one of these (likely) finance guys in frustration. Beat The Streets Grapple in the Apple raised $1.4 Million For New York City area youth wrestling and education programs (Photo/John Sachs, Tech-Fall.com)Herbert overhead their interest and in all his charming oafishness popped into their conversation to give them pointers on scoring and positioning. For five minutes they posed questions and Herbert answered. Finally they realized that the enormous and fit human in front of them might have wrestled as well. "Did you wrestle?" (Really? What else on EARTH could possibly have given him that frame? You can't see his ears behind his traps ... SUIT.) Herbert explained that he was still wrestling but was sitting out this match. Almost without thinking of the attention it might grab he added that he'd be wrestling in the Olympics. The dapper trio lost their minds. A REAL Olympian was sitting in front of them. Cell phone photos were taken. Ten minutes later their enthusiasm wasn't subsided and there were promises of watching all of Herbert's matches and possibly buying a few T-shirts. Herbert wasn't trying to sell them, he was sharing his passion with new people by using the available platform: The Grapple in the Apple. Wrestling icon Dan Gable was in New York City to take in the event (Photo/John Sachs, Tech-Fall.com)The wrestling community loves attention and save for a few glitches the match held in Times Square could be considered one of the most successful events in amateur wrestling history. Why? Because it managed to raise money, awareness and excitement -- the event is equal parts friend-raiser and fundraiser. Herbert, albeit an Olympian, used the event to promote his passion and earned the sport three new friends with a personal connection and a positive image of the sport. Three new fans isn't a small thing. In the days leading up to the match, the USA Wrestling team was on a full-scale promotional tour through NYC. (Kudos to Gary Abbott of USA Wrestling for selling some of the biggest names in the MSM on wrestling -- not an easy task.) In the course of one week we saw Jordan Burroughs on the NBC Today Show, CNN Early Start, and the WSJ video section. In print he was even more thoroughly covered including a piece on SI.com. The rest of the team also got into the act showing up at the closing bell of the NYSE and Yankee Stadium for batting practice. Herbert made an appearance on NBC affiliates in Chicago and NYC. The event was covered by the AP, ESPN, Reuters, and dozens of other media outlets, much of which had to do with the ease of the location, but also because the event itself was meaty, with the Russians visiting and an Olympic spot on the line. Local media picked up the achievements of their favorite athletes. For the first time since March my Google news alert for "wrestling" was void of references to Vince McMahon. Every story had something to do with the Grapple in the Apple. Coleman Scott defeated Reece Humphrey and Shawn Bunch to make the U.S. Olympic Team at 60 kilos in men's freestyle (Photo/John Sachs, Tech-Fall.com)The matches themselves were almost inconsequential to the overall feel of the event. Beating the backup Russian team was impressive and the Coleman Scott vs. Shawn Bunch could not have been more tense or ended in a more dramatic fashion, but it was the event itself that drew the attention of the media. (ESPN did not include Scott's final throw as a Top 10 play.) We live in an attention economy and getting our best in front of the camera and described in print will assist in selling the sport to more fans and more future supporters. In addition to the MSM and national media attention, the $1.4 million to support BTS also had a significant impact on the long-term sustainability of amateur wrestling. The monies raised at the banquet following the event will presumably be used to expand the organization's reach within the NYC Metro area with enough left over to help support the capital behind the new BTS program in Los Angeles. That West Coast branch of BTS will be headed up by former Division I All-American and longtime assistant coach Yero Washinston. As a grassroots program, BTS will succeed in its mission to get kids off the streets and through wrestling find a path to college, but from a sustainability standpoint BTS helps wrestling en masse by creating positive local media. In turn that media helps builds support within school administration and local governments. After parents and bureaucrats decide that wrestling is a positive option for their youth there is an increase in participation rates. That wouldn't be possible without the Grapple in the Apple. Jordan Burroughs dominated Russia's Kamel Malikov (Photo/John Sachs, Tech-Fall.com)Ultimately the legacy of the national media event like the Grapple in the Apple won't be with how many times we got to see Burroughs and Herbert on the television, or how the crowd became entranced by the back-and-forth between Scott and Bunch. The big payoff is that we have a grassroots organization impacting local communities. By cultivating the image of the sport at the local level we'll change the perception and habits of active youth, which will help us guarantee that there will always be a wrestling team to watch, cheer, and support. Like Herbert did in Times Square with the suits, our local wrestlers will recruit interest from family and friends. In turn they'll ensure that we have the support and the attention we've always pined for. Thanks to Beat the Streets, wrestling has its first long-term sustainable approach to creating, capturing, and capitalizing on an interest in the sport of wrestling. In a sport that seems more about contraction and negativity, this is the bright spot we can all enjoy. Footnote: I've been thinking it for some time (after the third-place finish at the 2011 Worlds, then after the third-place finish at the World Cup), but it's time to start considering a healthy overdose of praise for USA Wrestling's head coach Zeke Jones. There are several factors that have contributed to the recent uptick in international results (regional training centers, overall talent pool, Jordan Burroughs) but the coach of the program is the CEO and fair or not he'll take praise for the wins and criticism for the losses. Watching the Russian dual left me feeling hopeful about the United States chances not only in this year's Olympics, but for the next cycle as well. (Prediction: Logan Stieber will be a multi-time World and Olympic medalist. Grit. Speed. Strength.)

Brandon Eggum has been a key figure both as a competitor and coach in the University of Minnesota's climb to national prominence in Division I college wrestling. Eggum, a native of Sydney, Mont., was a three-time All-American (1998-2000) for the Gophers at 177/184 pounds, finishing fifth as a sophomore, runner-up as a junior, and third as a senior. He was also a two-time Big Ten champion. The Gophers finished in the top three at the NCAAs in each of Eggum's four seasons as a starter. Following his college wrestling career, Eggum found success on the senior level in freestyle wrestling. He earned a silver medal at the 2001 World Championships in Sofia, Bulgaria. Eggum joined Minnesota's staff in 2001 as the team's strength and conditioning coordinator, and helped the program to its first NCAA team title that season. He later moved into an assistant coaching position, and in August of 2011 was promoted to head assistant coach for the Gophers. In Eggum's 12 seasons on Minnesota's staff, the Gophers have won three NCAA team titles and finished in the top ten 11 times. InterMat caught up with Eggum and talked to him about a variety of topics, including this past season, members of the Gopher wrestling team, his competitive career, 2012-13 season outlook and schedule, career goals, and much more. Minnesota is coming off a runner-up finish at the NCAAs. I know the coaching staff and team's goal was to finish on top, but I imagine there is some satisfaction that comes with taking home a runner-up trophy. How did you and the staff evaluate this past season? Brandon Eggum coaches heavyweight Tony Nelson at the 2012 NCAA Championships (Mark Beshey, The Guillotine)Eggum: Overall we thought the guys made some great progress throughout the season. From early on, and then watching guys grow, we were very pleased. Obviously, we had a goal of winning a national championship. We had the potential to do that with a great national tournament. We had a good national tournament ... there's no doubt. A lot of guys wrestled above their seeds. But at the same time there were some guys that you knew deserved better. But that's the way that national tournament is. There are always ups and downs with it. Having seven All-Americans was excellent. But we had other guys that we know definitely could have been All-Americans. Nick Dardanes lost in the round of 12. That guy definitely should have been a high All-American just based on the way he was wrestling, and knowing how good he is. We just had some ups and down during the tournament, but that's just the way it goes. You started four freshmen, including a true freshman, and three sophomores this past season. When you have a young team like that, do you approach the season differently than you would with a team filled with juniors and seniors? Eggum: A little bit. We had some good balance. We had a couple great seniors in Zach Sanders and Sonny Yohn, so it was nice to have their leadership with the young guys. We went right into a pretty tough schedule. Starting right off the bat we had Cornell and Penn State early on a hard road trip, traveling to both schools. That really gave us a good look at where the guys were at. Our young guys were very, very tough mentally. They had a lot of confidence in themselves. You could just see by the way they wrestled with their intensity and pace that good things would happen as the season would go on. We knew that that was something they were always going to do. For us it was more about just trying to look at each individual as they were wrestling and start to figure out small areas where we could work on improvement. We knew the effort would be there. But if technically we could improve in a few areas, we knew that would help us. It was great to see so many young guys do well and become All-Americans. Logan Storley initially wanted to compete right out of the gates. We talked with him a lot about it. We told him that we planned on redshirting him. Typically we like to redshirt everybody when they come in if we can. That's what we wanted to do with him, even though he had made a strong point that he really wanted to compete. We just said, 'Well, if you feel that you're ready to compete, then at that point we would talk about it.' So we just kept trying to put it off and just watched him in the room. You could just see his mat sense was really good. He could also wrestle very well on the mat. Some kids coming out of high school, even blue chips, can struggle on the mat. He was doing very well in that area. He was competing with great guys in our room who were successful. Zach Sanders finished his career as Minnesota's seventh four-time All-American. What are you going to remember most about him as a college competitor? Eggum: The thing that I always think about with Zach is just the way he lived his life. He competed and trained perfectly. Everything was about wrestling for him ... The way that he took care of himself as far as training, sleeping, studying the sport, everything about it. It was very, very impressive to watch a guy that was as dedicated as him. That's why he was such a great leader for these young guys. They come in and they're looking up to a great leader like Zach Sanders. As far as coaching him, what a great guy to sit in the corner on. The guy wrestled for all seven minutes, all the time. He was never out of a match. He was just fun to watch. He had a ton of great skills. He was always thinking about scoring points and being offensive. He was a tough kid. So many great memories about Zach that it's hard to just pick out one. Sanders wrestled at the 2012 U.S. Olympic Team Trials just a month after his college career ended and had a win over Angel Escobedo, who has been successful on the senior level. What kind of freestyle career do you expect Sanders to have? Zach Sanders defeated Angel Escobedo at the 2012 U.S. Olympic Team Trials (Photo/The Guillotine)Eggum: Zach is going to have a great freestyle career, I believe. He's just kind of getting a taste of it. As you mentioned, he had a nice win over Escobedo, who is a very talented freestyle wrestler, and Zach did that with very little freestyle training. I know that Zach has made his decision to completely dedicate himself to making the freestyle team. I think 121 pounds is a great weight for Zach as well. He should have great success. We're extremely excited to keep him around training, just because of the way he lives and trains. At the same time, he's a great asset for the guys that are in our program. Obviously, with Sanders graduating, it leaves a void at 125 pounds. There has been speculation that David Thorn will be dropping from 133 pounds to 125 pounds. Can you confirm this? Eggum: Yeah. David came and talked with us a little bit about that near the end of the season. He has made the one-hundred percent decision that he's going to go 125 pounds. I think it's a great fit for him. Size-wise he actually was always light at 133 pounds. He's wrestling very well in the room right now. There's no question that a guy like David Thorn should be contending for a national title at 125 pounds. You will also have to replace three-time All-American Sonny Yohn at 197 pounds. Scott Schiller appears to be the frontrunner for that spot. He performed well as a backup, going 26-4 and placing fifth at the Southern Scuffle, which included a win over Penn State's Morgan McIntosh. What are your expectations for Schiller? Eggum: Scott has done a great job. We're excited to watch him compete. Our expectations for him are the same as the expectations we had for the young guys that entered the lineup last season, and that's just to go out and compete hard, and to wrestle the style of wrestling that we have been preaching here at Minnesota. That's what he does very, very well. He'll learn a lot, especially getting the exposure in live competition that he wasn't able to get this past season. I think he's going to have a big learning curve during the season. We just expect him to go out and wrestle a real physical pace, like he does, and good things will happen. The one weight class where you did not get an NCAA qualifier this past season was 157 pounds. Who do you see as the candidates for that starting spot this coming season? Pat Smith, one of the nation's top Greco-Roman wrestlers at 66 kilos, is one of a handful of wrestlers expected to battle for the starting spot at 157 pounds (Photo/The Guillotine)Eggum: That's still a question mark for us right now. In the past we had Jake Deitchler. When he was no longer able to compete, Alec Ortiz filled the sport for a lot of the season. Danny Zilverberg also saw some time in the lineup. Those are two guys that I know will be in the running for the spot. There are also a number of other young guys. Off the top of my head I'll probably leave someone out ... but we have Steven Keogh, Brad Dolezal, and Pat Smith. Those guys are all hungry and trying to earn a spot. But that's the weight we need someone to step up and really do well. For this team to win a national title we need somebody to come through there and be in the hunt to be an All-American. We have five returning All-Americans, so in that sense we have a strong returning team. You bring a guy like David Thorn in at 125 pounds, who I think will contend for a national title. Then you have a guy like Nick Dardanes, who could be a national champion or certainly a high finisher at 141 pounds. Plus, Cody Yohn, who is already a three-time NCAA qualifier. Then Scott Schiller at 197 pounds, who looks to be a solid fit for us. We just need a guy at 157 pounds to step up. Just like this past season, the balance of our team will be very, very good. You have signed another strong recruiting class that includes five InterMat Top 100 recruits. What are your overall thoughts on this year's recruiting class? Eggum: Obviously, sometimes you look to fill weights. But the other thing that we have always looked at here is just finding kids who fit into this program as far as being great people and having great attitudes. We're really happy with the guys that we brought in. They are hard-working individuals and seem very, very motivated. They'll fit in well. So we're excited with the group that we have. Do you expect any of your true freshmen to contend for starting spots this coming season? Or do you anticipate that all of them will redshirt? Eggum: We anticipate that all of them will redshirt. That's what we're thinking. There is maybe an individual here or there that we talked about early in the recruiting process that we would think about wrestling if they're ready. But I think right now with where we're at our thoughts are that all the incoming recruits will redshirt. We feel pretty comfortable that will be the case this season, barring injuries and things of that sort. Some programs have already released their schedules for the 2012-13 season. When do you anticipate the Gopher wrestling schedule will be finalized and released to the public? Eggum: For the most part the schedule has been finalized. I was waiting on one team in particular to see if we were going to have an extra dual with them. But right now we have a great home schedule. We have eight home duals this season. We added a couple different teams. Boise State is coming in. Hofstra, and Oregon State, a program that hasn't typically been on our schedule. Then we'll have Oklahoma State here at home. Other big duals with Iowa and Illinois. We have Northwestern and Michigan State on the Big Ten schedule as well. We have eight home duals, and right now it looks like we have the National Duals finals here as well. We're just trying to make sure everything is good to go. But it sounds like this is going to be the site for the National Duals finals. So we're excited about that. At least nine opportunities to compete at home is great for our team and great for our fans. So we're pretty pumped about the upcoming schedule. As far as the release of the schedule, I think they're waiting on a few things with the National Duals, and like I said, there's one team I'm trying to square some things up with. It could be an additional date here at home, or it could be away. But other than that we're pretty much finalized, so it might be released in the next few weeks. Shifting gears … You competed at the 2001 World Championship and claimed a silver medal. Where is that silver medal today? Eggum: People joke about it sometimes ... I've had people ask about it. It's actually in the attic of my garage. I guess I'm kind of embarrassed to say that. But it's up in my garage, up in the lofted area up there. I packed stuff away when I moved houses, and I never got a chance to pull it out. The memory of the tournament was great, and I was really excited about the opportunity to compete, and compete well. A lot of times, timing is everything. It was a great tournament for me. The memories for me are something that I cherish. The medal, though, for the most part, is not something I really think much about. But, yeah, it's in my garage, so I'll have to see if I can dust it off one day and pull it out. Some of the guys have asked about seeing it, and I've said that I don't know if I have enough time to get up there and look around for it. You competed against Cael Sanderson both in college and in your freestyle career. I have heard Daniel Cormier talk about how Cael made him a better wrestler in college because he had to train to beat one of the best wrestlers in the world. Do you think competing against Cael helped raise your level? Brandon Eggum battles Cael Sanderson (Photo/The Guillotine)Eggum: Yeah ... there's no doubt. The guy was an exceptional competitor. It keeps you very, very focused. You try to learn new things and improve. So it definitely helped in that sense. He was one of the best wrestlers in the world when he was competing. When you get a chance to compete against somebody like that it does make it easy to keep yourself motivated and focused. There were a number of other guys that I competed against that I really respected, so I always hoped that I was training intensely and hard to be the best, and not overlooking other competitors. You retired after 2004 at the age of 28. Did that itch to compete ever come back after you retired from competition? Eggum: Not so much. Guys talk about that itch a lot. I didn't really feel it in that sense. I was really excited about what I was able to do with coaching, and starting to get more involved with wrestling. I really enjoy competing in the room and wrestling with the guys. But as far as the thought of coming back and really competing, I guess I don't feel a strong urge to do that, or haven't. When I was done, I was ready to be done. I really haven't looked back. With coaching, now starting my family and everything else that is going on in my life, I feel content with where I'm at and with what I've done as a competitor. Now it's more about helping these guys get better and attain their goals. You are widely considered one of the nation's top assistant coaches in Division I. Your name is often times brought up when Division I head coaching positions are open. How important is it to you to become a Division I head coach? Eggum: That's my ultimate goal, to be a head coach. It's great to be in the situation that I'm in right now under J Robinson. You learn so much from a guy like him. I'm blessed to be in this situation. But ultimately that's why I'm here. I'm putting in my time and trying to be the best I can be as a head assistant coach. But my ultimate goal as far as my career goes is to be a head coach, so it's very, very important to me. On paper you have a team that is expected to be in the hunt for an NCAA team title in 2013. In your opinion, what is it going to take in terms of All-Americans and/or NCAA champions to finish on top in Des Moines next year? Brandon Eggum talks with Sonny Yohn at the 2012 NCAA Championships (Photo/The Guillotine)Eggum: I don't know what the magic number is ... but we had seven All-Americans this year, and in some years you can definitely win the title with seven All-Americans. I think it's going to take team balance for us to do it ... there's no question. I think you're going to have to have seven or more All-Americans to win the national title, and I think we can do that. There's no question. I see strong individuals ... I think we can get All-Americans in each of the weights. I would say it's going to take seven-plus All-Americans, and we have to have a handful of guys get in the finals and score some big points. We have the capability of doing that. So I guess that would be my prediction as far as us winning a national title. I see us doing it with a full team balance, all 10 guys going to the national tournament, and all 10 guys scoring points for the team. This story also appears in the June 8 issue of The Guillotine. The Guillotine has been covering amateur wrestling in Minnesota since 1971. Its mission is to report and promote amateur wrestling at all levels -- from youth and high school wrestling to college and international level wrestling. Subscribe to The Guillotine.

Eddie Klimara (Providence Catholic, Ill.), a two-time state champion and four-time state finalist, recently returned from visits to Oklahoma State and Virginia Tech, but ultimately decided he wanted to be a Cowboy and wrestle for John Smith. Eddie Klimara"There were a lot of reasons I liked Oklahoma State, but I'd have to say it was because of all the kids down there," said Klimara, who became the last Class of 2012 wrestler in the InterMat Top 100 to commit to a college. "I knew most of them and got along with them well, and the coaches were awesome. But overall just the whole atmosphere down there ... wrestling and school was amazing." This past January Klimara become the 12th four-time Catholic League champion in Illinois. He was also a four-time Dvorak champion. Klimara claimed a Junior National freestyle title in 2010. Klimara projects as a 125-pounder in college.

COLUMBIA, Mo. -- Missouri wrestling head coach Brian Smith has signed a contract extension, as announced Friday morning by Director of Athletics Mike Alden. The contract is a five-year deal lasting through the 2016-17 season, with a one-year automatic extension for the 2017-18 campaign that would kick in on May 1, 2013. “We’re very happy to be able to announce this for Coach Smith and the rest of the Missouri wrestling program,” Alden said. “Brian and his staff have turned Mizzou wrestling in to one of the nation’s elite programs, and we look forward to many more years of success under his watch at Missouri.” Already the longest-tenured head coach in the history of Missouri wrestling, the 2012-13 season will mark Smith’s 15th since taking over for Wes Roper in 1998. In that time, the Tigers have seen unprecedented success both on the mat and in the classroom, crowning four national champions, 26 All-Americans, 14 Academic All-Americans and 40 Academic All-Conference honorees. “The most important thing about this extension is the statement it makes about the program’s future,” stated Smith. “The administration, the coaching staff, and the student-athletes have helped build something special, and the department is committed to helping the program continue their quest for a National Championship” Since 1998-99, Smith and Missouri have compiled a dual record of 173-82-3, making him the winningest coach by both victories and winning percentage (.676) in program history. He’s also lead the team to seven top-15 finishes at the NCAA Championships, including a third place finish in 2007, capturing the school’s only team trophy since the 1965 Men’s Indoor Track and Field team won the national championship. “Finalizing this contract with Brian was very important to us, not just because we wanted to recognize him for all he’s helped the program achieve, but because we also want to express how committed we are to wrestling at Mizzou going forward,” said Executive Associate Athletic Director Sarah Reesman. “Brian and his staff have accomplished so many great things – both athletically and academically – and we look forward to the program reaching even greater levels of success in years to come.” In 2012, the program claimed their first Big 12 Conference championship, scoring 77.0 points with four individual champions in front of the hometown crown at the Hearnes Center. The team would go on to qualify all 10 starters for the NCAA Championships for the first time ever and was the only team in all of Division I Wrestling to accomplish that feat in 2012. “The administration has always given me everything I’ve asked for,” Smith said. “They come to me and ask ‘what can we do’ to help improve the program. We’ve had a great working relationship since I started here. They see the big picture and they see how we’re developing young men in to future leaders. This was an easy decision for me because I knew how important it was for the program.” The University of Missouri has continuously confirmed their long-term support for the Tiger wrestling program, despite the fact that the Southeastern Conference does not sponsor the sport. Along with Smith’s extension, the program recently announced several additions to their coaching staff. After three years as a volunteer, Joe Johnston was promoted to a full time assistant, while former National Champion Mark Ellis returns to his alma mater to take over the volunteer position. An All-American in 2011, Todd Schavrien also comes back to Mizzou to serve as the Director of Operations. On top of all that, the current wrestling facility will be expanded and upgraded to allow for an Olympic development center.

Fight Now USA Presents Takedown Wrestling from the Brute studios in Des Moines, Iowa at 1460 KXNO. Takedown Wrestling is brought to you by Kemin Agrifoods! This Saturday it's Takedown Wrestling Radio. Join Scott Casber and Brad Johnson with the Takedown Wrestling Headline News this Saturday from 9 to 11 a.m. CT/ 10 a.m. to noon ET. This week's guests: 9:03 Jim Andrassy, Kent State head wrestling coach 9:20 Mark Cody, Oklahoma head wrestling coach 9:40 Joel Greenlee, Ohio head wrestling coach 9:50 Ty Barkley, Max Muscle Sports Nutrition Update 10:00 Joe Russell, George Mason head wrestling coach 10:20 Bruce Burnett, Navy head wrestling coach 10:40 Mitch Smith, Alderson- Broaddus head wrestling coach 10:50 Amy Ruble, GM of Wildrose Casino and Resort

InterMat senior writer T.R. Foley answers reader questions about NCAA wrestling, international wrestling, recruiting, or anything loosely related to wrestling. You have until Thursday night every week to send questions to Foley's Twitter or email account. Want to view a past mailbag? View archives. Q: Thinking of entering a tourney after six years away from competition. Good or bad idea? -- @jongaffney Foley: How old are you? Do you have health insurance? Can you train at full speed? If you answered: Younger than thirty, YES, and YES, then you should take up cycling. If you want to compete in wrestling after college then you need to try out jiu-jitsu. The sport is just wrestling with a few finishing holds and way less cardiovascular work. Technique, patience, strategy, and trickery outperform brute strength, meaning you have a level playing field with guys of all sizes. Plus you have an advantage on the other newbies because you've wrestled in the past. I've been training and competing for 18 months and love the way I feel. I can honestly say I've never felt healthier. I'm addicted. In fact just before I headed to the Grapple in the Apple, I took time to visit five-time BJJ World champion Marcelo Garcia. I got WHIPPED, but it was an excellent learning experience. Check out this video below. Even a guy with immense talent like Ben Askren has found that wrestling is no match for Garcia's superior technique. With a gi versus Jake Shields ... But the real benefit is the emotional connection you can make at a jiu-jitsu school. I know "how sweet?" But being a part of something larger is what drives humanity, and jiu-jitsu schools are little clans of athletes who genuinely care for each other. My teammates at Valko BJJ in Chicago are about my same age as me with similar goals, which keeps me interested in attending class. Compare an adult BJJ school to visiting a high school or college wrestling room, where you share little in common with the social life of an 18-year-old, and you'll see the benefit of making friends when you wrestle. The guys at Valko BJJ were some of my biggest supporters when I traveled to wrestle in Mongolia. After being gone three months I missed those guys so much that I literally got off a 14-hour flight from Beijing and took a taxi directly to the 6 p.m. class. If you want healthy and sustainable I'd say train and compete in BJJ. If you want to see if you still have "IT" then by all means hit the mats. Just try and remember to HAVE FUN ... and buy supplemental insurance. Q: The University of Minnesota has had a history of some pretty solid heavyweight wrestlers: Vern Gagne, Brock Lesner, Cole Konrad, and now hopefully Tony Nelson. While Cole seems to have been the most dominant at heavyweight for a longer period, Tony is quite young and has two more years to go. Brock only wrestled at the University of Minnesota for two years and is all over the program's record books. And let's just say that Vern Gagne was no slouch!! So my question is ... Who wins in a round-robin tourney between the four of these beasts? -- Tom G. Foley: I liked watching Tony Nelson wrestle this season. He's the type of heavyweight most coaches seem to want recently -- tall, athletic and with lean-ish muscle mass. Nelson's build is a little like two-time NCAA champion Tommy Rowlands, though I do think he's considerably heavier. What works in college wrestling, especially at heavyweight, will always be changing and like we've seen in MMA, more maneuverability, flexibility and power are essential to success. The newest heavyweight prototype might be a guy like Northwestern's Mike McMullan, who placed third this season as a freshman and weighed AT BEST 240 pounds. "Glasses and Muscles" (greatest nickname in wrestling?) can scramble with strength. He also has sneaky setups to leg attacks, where despite his size, he seems to finish with consistency. All that said, I think you have to take Cole Konrad. He's too massive and much, much too talented! Q: What do you think of Steve Mocco heading into MMA? How do you think he'll do? -- @BrandonfrmNJ Foley: I'll keep it brief because Mocco has never fought. I met Conan Silveira, the heavyweight coach at ATT in Coconut Creek. If the article I read was true, that ATT made him a respectable financial offer, then I'm trusting Conan's judgment was that he could MAKE MONEY OFF MOCCO. To do that they must think he can win fights. I'd like to see him take at least four fights in the next calendar year then get an invite to the Bellator tourney, or if he feels marketable and the timing is right possibly push him over to the UFC where he can be serviceable. The parting wisdom on this comes from Rob Koll. We were having a debate about the technical maturation of wrestling over time and if a guy like Gable could technically hang with comparable athletes of this generation (assuming we have better techniques, training methods, breadth of experience). He made the point that winners win, no matter the generation. Gable, or Lee Kemp, any champion wrestler of the past would be able to come into modern-day world and adapt -- winning is a mindset and a habit. Mocco KNOWS how to win and win on the biggest stage and there is not much of a reason to think he won't be able to adapt his winner's mentality to his new endeavor. I've always been a big fan and can't wait to see what he does in the cage. Q: Rumor is that Atlanta is putting in a bid for 2015, and the Georgia Dome would the location. What are your thoughts? What are the chances this goes through? -- Chase V. Foley: I LOVE the idea that we can go to the NCAA tournament in a city that doesn't serve fried ravioli. Don't flip out. I enjoy some St. Louis, but some time in the Deep South might do well for wrestling fans and all those fake tanners from Ohio State won't look as silly walking around the lobby of their hotel ... to be fair, there are others out there (look to State College). What wrestling needs is consistency. Put us in the same city every year so that we can build a habit out of the tourney. Like Omaha hosting the College World Series for NCAA baseball we could make Atlanta (or Pittsburgh, or Dallas, or ...) THE HOME OF COLLGE WRESTLING! WE could build statues and erect monuments. It's an enormous revenue source for a city so there is little chance they'd deny the consistent income, though I think that some cities hedge because they might also want to host a round of NCAA basketball, also a moneymaker. WE are waiting on the NCAA committee to make an announcement. It's just a rumor, but I've been told that coming off the success of releasing a bracket every 30 for FIVE HOURS, the NCAA is considering hosting a hangman competition where we get to guess the letters that make up the name of the host city. One letter a day for a minimum of 14 days. STAY TUNED! Q: Battle of the Batmen Tournament Edition: Val Kilmer vs. Michael Keaton and George Clooney vs. Christan Bale? -- D. Thompkins Foley: Let's first agree that you are everyone's hero for creating a format that we will be using from here-forward. Is it me or are there several movie franchises that have several actors playing the same role? Even the following Part 1 Breakdown of Batman will have to add another name in a few years -- Christian Bale is done after the "The Dark Knight Rises". (Who is the next Batman? Jon Hamm? Ryan Gosling? The part is going to be changed drastically and likely mirror some future angst in pop culture.) In addition to Batman we could debate the various Spidermen and Hulks. If we branch out we can analyze the various Bonds, or even Jack Ryan. The rumor WAS that Matt Damon had been replaced as Jason Bourne in the Bourne series of movies, but he wasn't. Instead the next Bourne is about the OTHER rogue asset from Blackbriar played by Jeremy Renner. When will the movies start remaking dramatic films every three years? Is it too soon to start the remake of Atonement? What about comedies? Could we remake Step Brothers with Aziz Ansari and Kal Penn? If you went down that rabbit hole, what would be considered off limits? What is the timeframe before a studio produces a remake? As to your original question and the establishment of the tournament; it seems, have seeded this tournament, which means you think it's (1)Kilmer, (4)Keaton, (2)Clooney and (3)Bale? I'm not going to argue -- it is YOUR question. But you should never be asked to seed the NCAA tournament. EVER. For this mailbag I'll focus on just the first matchup. The Grapple in the Apple is about to start and I gotta Tweet some results! Val Kilmer's best role was as Jim Morrison in the movie "The Doors." Don't try to argue for his role as Slider in "Top Gun" because all he did there was spike his hair, chomp his teeth and play beach volleyball in jeans. With "The Doors", Kilmer made us all think (NAY, BELIEVE!!) he could be the next great character actor in Hollywood -- a blonde Daniel Day-Lewis, a half-sane Mickey Rourke, a sober Robert Downey Jr. Five years later we'd all be left shaking our head. Before Batman, but after "The Doors," Kilmer took sweaty, pasty misogynist Cowboy to a new level by portraying the TB-ridden, heavy-drinking and sharp-shooting Doc Holliday in Tombstone as a lovable and loyal partner to Wyatt Earp. ("I'll be your Huckleberry" is being quoted in wrestling rooms right now.) What seemed like a budding career then met "Batman Forever." AWFUL. That movie was so bad that it made my brother leave me in the theater to finish it by myself as he cruised Stafford County Virginia in his special edition 1978 Camaro Z28. Perhaps it's the scar from seeing my ride leave me at the movie theater, or it was having to sit through the obnoxious, unwatchable cat-shrill that is Chris O'Donnell but "Batman Forever" FOREVER broke my bond to Val Kilmer. Or right up until "MacGruber" -- a top ten funniest SNL-adapted movie. Somehow Kilmer got your top seed while Michael Keaton dropped to the fourth seed. I have to start with my Michael Keaton disclaimer, that all-but jeopardizes my legitimacy as an impartial observer. His movie "The Paper" convinced me to stay in journalism instead of going to work in sports PR. I could've been massaging some big athlete's ego, or screaming at some local sports reporter for asking questions about his personal life, but instead I'm with the men and women that matter most -- wrestling fans. There was nothing innately inspirational about the story in "The Paper", but it as strong message during a time of weakness (What if instead I'd flipped over to "Jerry Maguire"?) had six weeks left in grad school and I was seeing the financial implications of becoming a journalist and weighing that against living in California and attending yoga studios with my multi-million dollar athletes. I thought I'd like to drive a convertible and maybe get it valeted at a nice sushi restaurant. Anyways that never happened because I sat and watched a bunch of dialogue between Keaton, Glenn Close (my favorite), Marissa Tomei, Robert Duvall and Randy Quaid. Almost none of it was going to be applicable to me, a guy headed to online and magazine journalism (Again, the movie is called, wait for it ... "The Paper," but I'm a sucker for determination and journalistic ethics, so when Keaton's character saves the lives of the two boys being set up for murder I decided to stick out the journalism thing for a while. At least until I make my millions writing a book about fey teenage vampires. Keaton's career ALSO took a hit after his failed role in Batman. (Save his performance in "The Paper.") Seems there might be a Batman curse. Keaton's Batman was stale next to Jack Nicholson's Joker. ("Never rub another man's rhubarb!") Batman felt hokey from the opening credits, but it was the FIRST major attempt at the series, so some leeway has to be given for having spawned an entire multi-billion dollar franchise. I guess in some way you have to give the credit to Keaton for that. Also, Keaton KILLS in "The Other Guys." Don't go chasing waterfalls. Keaton dec. Kilmer, 6-1. The only movie that matters this summer ... Love is Blindness.

NEW YORK -- The much-anticipated Grapple in the Apple in Times Square more than lived up to its billing on a rainy Thursday in New York City. Coleman Scott, who won the U.S. Olympic Team Trials and World Cup, earned the final spot on the U.S. Olympic Team at 60 kilos in a series that came down to the final match. It was a night that also saw Team USA defeat Russia, 4-3, in a dual meet that came down to the final match. Coleman Scott celebrates with coaches Eric Guerrero and John Smith after beating Shawn Bunch with a five-point move in the third match (Photo/John Sachs, Tech-Fall.com)The 26-year-old Scott, who defeated returning U.S. World Team member Reece Humphrey earlier in the day, punched his ticket to London with a dramatic victory over 2009 U.S. World Team member Shawn Bunch in their best-of-three finals series. It marked Scott's first victory over Bunch ever on the senior level. Scott, a 2008 NCAA champion and four-time All-American for Oklahoma State, opened with a three-period victory, 1-0, 0-1, 7-0. Bunch battled back, winning the second match, 1-1, 1-0, 1-0. But the third and deciding match was all Scott. He took the first period, 1-0, and then closed out the match with a five-point throw. "It's just surreal right now," said Scott moments after his victory. "To reach my goal I had to do this ... I had to win. That's to be an Olympic champ. It was a big stage and a lot of people." Scott earning a spot on the U.S. Olympic Team marks the 41st time an Oklahoma State wrestler has accomplished the feat. The 2012 Olympic Games in London will mark the third consecutive Olympic Games in which a former Cowboy wrestler has competed in the Olympic Games. "I'm proud to be from Oklahoma State," said Scott. "As you can see my coaches ... I couldn't do it without them. I mean, I've got Olympic champs in my corner, and then another Olympian. It's awesome to please those guys ... as much work as they put in for me, just to give a little bit back right now, and I'll give the rest back in August." Match Breakdowns Match 1: Coleman Scott dec. Shawn Bunch, 1-0, 0-1, 7-0 First Period: Scott attempts an ankle pick/grab, which doesn't score. The period ends scoreless after a whole lot of nothing for two minutes. Scott wins the ball draw, and after an initial caution against Bunch, drives Bunch out of bounds for a point. Second Period: Not much action. Bunch gets a one-point takedown to take the period, 1-0. Third Period: Scott scores a takedown on the edge of the mat to take a 1-0 lead. There's a flurry and Scott is awarded two points for exposure. The call is challenged by Bunch, but the call stands. Scott is awarded another point after Bunch's challenge was unsuccessful. Scott adds three points late in the period to earn a 7-0 victory and take the first match. Match 2: Shawn Bunch dec. Coleman Scott, 1-1, 1-0, 1-0 First Period: There is a whole lot of nothing until Bunch earns a pushout, but Scott fakes hard, Bunch sprawls and Scott goes behind with three seconds remaining to take the period. Second Period: The second period goes to the clinch ... and Bunch wins the ball draw. Quick lift and dump earns Bunch the period. Third Period: Pushout earns Bunch the first points of the period. Scott fights hard for the takedown at the end but falls short. Match 3: Coleman Scott dec. Shawn Bunch, 1-0, 5-0 First Period: The ball draw goes to Scott and gets the bully double for the win. Second Period: Scott gets in deep and Bunch defends with what looked like it was a front head. Bunch looks for the exposure but Scott picks him up off the exchange and puts him flat to his back. The ref calls it a three-point move and Bunch challenges the call. Team USA defeats Russia A Team USA squad made up of four Olympians defeated Russia, 4-3, in a dual meet that came down to heavyweight, where 2009 World bronze medalist Tervel Dlagnev sealed the deal with a first-period pin over Eduard Bazrov. Other U.S. victories came from Logan Stieber (60 kilos), and Olympians Jared Frayer (66 kilos) and Jordan Burroughs (74 kilos). Stieber, a 2011 Junior World silver medalist and 2012 U.S. Olympic Team Trials runner-up, dropped the first period to Akhmed Chakaev, but showed a tremendous amount of poise in coming back to win the final two periods and take the match at 60 kilos. Frayer needed three periods to defeat Dzalaludin Kurbanaliev. He won the first period with an electrifying five-point throw. Kurbanaliev took the second period 2-0 with a couple takedowns. But Frayer came out on top 1-0 in the final period to take the match. Burroughs, a returning World champion, was dominant in a 8-0, 5-0 victory over Kamel Malikov. Match Breakdowns 55 kilos: Artas Sanaa (Russia) dec. Sam Hazewinkel (USA), 1-0, 2-0 First Period: Sanaa shoots in late on a left side single and puts it to his feet where he then runs Hazewinkel out of bounds. Second Period: A quick right side single scores for the Russian. Hazewinkel stays aggressive and tries an arm throw, but is taken down again. A second arm spin attempt is called a slip. 60 kilos: Logan Stieber (USA) dec. Akhmed Chakaev (Russia), 1-3, 7-0, 5-4 First Period: Beautiful shot by Stieber is countered with a cradle and transitioned to a high leg, which the Russian then re-shoots and scores the first takedown. Another shot by the Russian let side is stuffed with confidence. Stieber shoots, elevates into a two-point exposure (cartwheel response by the Russian). After the review the Russian was awarded one point for the takedown and one point for losing the challenge. Second Period: One takedown and two-point exposure. Adds another takedown and two sets of exposures to make it a quick period Third Period: Another quick takedown by Stieber and failed ankle lace within the first 45 seconds. The Russian hits a wonderful crotch lift, which Stieber comes out the back and then manages to reverse ankle lace for a two of his own. The score is 3-2 at this point and Stieber shoots, gets lifted and REPEATES the same scramble for the same exchange of two and two. 66 kilos: Jared Frayer (USA) dec. Dzalaludin Kurbanaliev (Russia), 5-0, 0-2, 1-0 First Period: The Russian got put in FIRST-CLASS AIR FRAYER ... 5-0 ... from double over hooks to end the period. Second Period: Quick takedown for the Russian and adds another at the end to seal up the period. Frayer looked in position the whole period. Third Period: Frayer keeps up the underhook pressure, looks for a cement mixer, and finally gets the Russian to step forward and hit a wonderfully-executed head snap and spins behind for the takedown and wins the match. 74 kilos: Jordan Burroughs (USA) dec. Kamel Malikov (Russia), 8-0, 5-0 First Period: Three double legs and Burroughs wins the period 7-0. Second Period: Three pushouts put Burroughs well ahead and in control. Late double leg off a decent up-and-down scramble earns Burroughs another point. Super duck for a fifth point. Twelve points in four minute. Is that "good" wrestling? 84 kilos: Andrey Valiev (Russia) dec. Keith Gavin (USA), 5-0, 3-2 First Period: Valiev earns a five-point throw in the first minute. It was ...nice. Second Period: Three-point arm spin by Valiev is countered with a quick takedown by Gavin. Earns another takedown but it isn't enough. 96 kilos: Shamil Akhmedov (Russia) dec. J.D. Bergman (USA), 1-2, 1-1, 2-0 First Period: Bergman earns a quick takedown. Looks solid. Another takedown with 30 seconds remaining left ... and the crowd is in a tizzy. Second Period: Pass-by to a double leg and another takedown to start the period. The Russian works out of a scramble and earns an equalizer. Last to score wins. Third Period: Russian earned a takedown with 45 seconds remaining to take the lead. Bergman in on a shot but gets countered and gives up another takedown. 120 kilos: Tervel Dlagnev (USA) pin Eduard Bazrov (Russia), 0:25 First Period: Dlagnev in low ... Scramble ... Dlagnev earns the quick fall (25 seconds) to give Team USA the 4-3 victory over Russia. Women's Exhibition: Helen Maroulis (New York AC) dec. Ashley Hudson (Gator WC), 4-0, 2-1 First Period: Scissors across the body cost Hudson two points. Maroulis gets a takedown. Second Period: Maroulis and Hudson exchange 4 takedowns with Maroulis earning the final takedown and the match victory.

NEW YORK -- MSG Sports announced today that, for the first time in Madison Square Garden history, collegiate wrestling will take to the mat in the inaugural "Grapple at the Garden, benefiting Beat the Streets." Bucknell, Chattanooga, Hofstra, Iowa, Maryland, Nebraska, Oklahoma State, Ohio State and Rutgers will participate in the historic event on Sunday, Dec. 16, at The World's Most Famous Arena. Nine of the country's top college wrestling programs will converge at Madison Square Garden for what will be the first-ever collegiate wrestling dual meet in The Garden's illustrious history. Five of the participating institutions placed in the top 25 during the NCAA Division I Championships. They include Iowa with a third place finish, Ohio State with a fifth place finish and Oklahoma State, which finished in sixth place. Also included are Nebraska and Hofstra, which finished 21st and 23rd respectively. Oklahoma State and Iowa are by far two of the greatest dynasties in all of college athletics and, together, have a combined total of 57 NCAA wrestling championships. This includes 34 championships for Oklahoma State, which marks a record for the most titles held by one university in any college sport in the country. "Madison Square Garden has a long and legendary history with collegiate athletics and we look forward to welcoming the finest collegiate wrestlers in the country on December 16," said Joel Fisher, executive vice president, MSG Sports. "There's no better way to host our first-ever collegiate wrestling meet than with these nine top universities with first-rate wrestling programs." The "Grapple at the Garden, benefiting Beat the Streets" will showcase the many talents of college's top wrestlers including Iowa's two-time NCAA champion Matt McDonough, who recently captured the 125 lb. championship at both the Big Ten and NCAA Championships this season as well as Ohio State's Logan Stieber, who in his first season captured the 133 lb. title at the NCAA Championships, defeating No. 1 seed and defending national champion Jordan Oliver from Oklahoma State. Long Island native and 2011 ACC Coach of the Year, Kerry McCoy will lead his Maryland Terrapins into the Garden when they take on Nebraska and Ohio State. McCoy, a two-time Olympian, four-time World Cup Champion and three-time NCAA All-American, captured the silver medal in the 2003 World Wrestling Championships at Madison Square Garden. Additionally, prior to rebuilding The Ohio State University wrestling program, head coach Tom Ryan spent 11 years as head coach at Hofstra. Ryan, who grew up on Long Island, and his Buckeyes team will now face off against his former school during session one on December 16th. The full day of wrestling on December 16 will consist of two separate sessions with the first starting at 10:30 a.m. with Rutgers vs. Chattanooga, Maryland vs. Nebraska, Ohio State vs. Hofstra and Iowa vs. Bucknell. Session two will begin at 12:30 p.m. and feature Rutgers vs. Nebraska, Oklahoma State vs. UTC, Ohio State vs. Maryland and Iowa vs. Hofstra. Tickets will be available at a later date. To sign up for the exclusive Pre-Sale, please visit www.MSGINSIDER.com. Bucknell Head Coach, Dan Wirnsberger: "This is an honor and privilege for the Bucknell Wrestling program to be invited to compete in this prestigious wrestling event in Madison Square Garden. This is a unique opportunity for our student-athletes to experience such a historic venue and to compete against one of the best wrestling programs of all-time, the Iowa Hawkeyes. We look forward to the challenge. "Our participation in this event allows us the opportunity to be involved with something that is even bigger than wrestling, which is the Beat the Streets program of New York City. The organization has a mission to make a difference in young people's lives and teach them life-long skills through the sport. This is an event our student-athletes are excited to be a part of and will always remember." Hofstra Head Coach, Rob Anspach: "We are truly excited about participating in the "Grapple at the Garden" in the World's Most Famous Arena. The Pride has wrestled in some of the great venues around the country over the years. But it is special to bring nine of the top schools in the nation into our backyard for one of the greatest dual match events ever. While we have hosted events at the New York Athletic Club in the city numerous times, the magnitude of wrestling in Madison Square Garden, along with the outstanding teams that are participating, should make this a must-see event for every sports fan." Chattanooga Head Coach Heath Eslinger: "We are very excited about participating in the "Grapple at the Garden". To be one of the first collegiate teams to compete in an arena as historic as Madison Square Garden will be a big thrill for everyone involved with our program. It also gives us a chance to challenge ourselves against some of the best teams in the NCAA on one of the biggest stages in the country." Maryland Head Coach Kerry McCoy: "We are really excited to have our team participate in this inaugural event. MSG is the World's Greatest Arena. To compete on that stage will be an awesome experience for our student-athletes." Nebraska Head Coach Mark Manning: "We are very excited to be part of a great event in NYC's Madison Square Garden, which will make for a tremendous atmosphere. Also, New York is an area where we recruit and have a lot of familiarity with HS coaches, so we are truly excited about this unique opportunity." Rutgers Head Coach Scott Goodale: "Rutgers Wrestling is proud to have the opportunity to compete inside our country's most recognizable arena, Madison Square Garden. The Grapple at the Garden event will bring some the nation's top wrestling programs to New York City, which is right in Rutgers' backyard. This is an excellent opportunity for Scarlet Knight fans to be loud and proud in the Garden. Our team and coaching staff will be ready to go." Ohio State Head Coach Tom Ryan: "The Buckeyes are looking forward to being a part of the MSG Duals and competing against so many great institutions while enjoying all the excitement the Big Apple has to offer," Tom Ryan, Ohio State head coach, said. "Competing against Coach Anspach's Hofstra Pride, the defending CAA champions, and Coach McCoy's Maryland Terrapins, the defending ACC champions, will provide us with some great mid-season challenges." About The Madison Square Garden Company The Madison Square Garden Company is a fully-integrated sports, media and entertainment business. The Company is comprised of three business segments: MSG Sports, MSG Media and MSG Entertainment, which are strategically aligned to work together to drive the Company's overall business, which is built on a foundation of iconic venues and compelling content that the company creates, produces, presents and/or distributes through its programming networks and other media assets. MSG Sports consists of owning and operating sports franchises, including the New York Knicks (NBA), the New York Rangers (NHL), the New York Liberty (WNBA), and the Connecticut Whale (AHL). MSG Sports also features the presentation of a wide variety of live sporting events including professional boxing, college basketball, track and field and tennis. MSG Media is a leader in production and content development for multiple distribution platforms, including content originating from the Company's venues. MSG Media consists of the MSG Networks (MSG, MSG Plus, MSG HD and MSG Plus HD) regional sports networks and the Fuse Networks (Fuse and Fuse HD), a national television network dedicated to music. MSG Entertainment is one of the country's leaders in live entertainment. MSG Entertainment creates, produces and/or presents a variety of live productions, including the Radio City Christmas Spectacular featuring the Radio City Rockettes. MSG Entertainment also presents or hosts other live entertainment events such as concerts, family shows and special events in the Company's diverse collection of venues. These venues include Madison Square Garden, Radio City Music Hall, the Theater at Madison Square Garden, the Beacon Theatre, the Chicago Theatre and the Wang Theatre. More information is available at www.themadisonsquaregardencompany.com. About Beat the Streets The Mission of the Beat the Streets Wrestling Program is to expand and develop wrestling in the New York City Metropolitan area from the youth through the Olympic level. Our dream is to provide opportunities for boys and girls in the activity of wrestling, building lifelong skills. If you share this mission and would like to volunteer to help, please contact volunteer@beat-the-streets.org.

NEW YORK -- It was an eventful evening in New York at The Grapple in the Apple. Coleman Scott earned the final spot on the U.S. Olympic Team with a dramatic victory over Shawn Bunch at 60 kilos. Scott ended the final match with a five-point move. Team USA defeated Russia, 4-3. InterMat's T.R. Foley will be providing a recap. Please check back. Best-of-Three Finals at 60 kilos: Match 1: Coleman Scott dec. Shawn Bunch, 1-0, 0-1, 7-0 Match 2: Shawn Bunch dec. Coleman Scott, 1-1, 1-0, 1-0 Match 3: Coleman Scott dec. Shawn Bunch, 3-0, 5-0 USA 4, Russia 3: 55 kilos: Artas Sanaa (Russia) dec. Sam Hazewinkel (USA), 1-0, 2-0 60 kilos: Logan Stieber (USA) dec. Akhmed Chakaev (Russia), 1-3, 7-0, 5-4 66 kilos: Jared Frayer (USA) dec. Dzhalaludin Kurbanaliev (Russia), 5-0, 0-2, 1-0 74 kilos: Jordan Burroughs (USA) dec. Kamal Malikov (Russia), 8-0, 3-0 84 kilos: Andrey Valiev (Russia) dec. Keith Gavin (USA), 5-0, 3-2 96 kilos: Shamil Akhmedov (Russia) dec. J.D. Bergman (USA), 0-2, 1-1, 2-0 120 kilos: Tervel Dlagnev (USA) pinned Eduard Bazrov (Russia)

Gary Kroeger and Mike Novogratz will go "On the Mat" this Wednesday, June 6. "On the Mat" is a presentation of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame Dan Gable Museum. The show can be heard live on the Internet at www.kcnzam.com or locally in Northeast Iowa each Wednesday from 5:00 to 6:00 PM Central on AM 1650, The Fan. An archive of the show can be found on www.themat.tv. E-mail radio@wrestlingmuseum.org with any questions or comments about the show. Kroeger is a former Saturday Night Live cast member who is currently works at MUDD Advertising in Cedar Falls, Iowa. He will play as a celebrity in the Dan Gable Celebrity Golf Tournament on Monday, June 11. Novogratz was named Man of the Year by USA Wrestling in 2010 for his outstanding contributions to the sport of wrestling. He is the driving force behind “The Grapple from the Big Apple” event on June 7 from Times Square in New York City.

Related Link: The MMA Outsider Podcast Archives Headlining this week's show are interviews with up-and-coming UFC bantamweight fighters Francisco Rivera and Jared Papazian. Papazian talks about taking on season 14 The Ultimate Fighter participant Dustin Pague at UFC on FX 3 this Friday, as well as his UFC debut earlier this year against Mike Easton. Rivera, meanwhile, is coming off of his first UFC victory a few weeks ago against Alex Soto, and he isn't resting on his laurels, either. Rivera will get back into the Octagon for the second time in about a one-month span when he faces Ken Stone at UFC on FX 4 on June 22. Rounding out the show, Richard and John also look back at The Ultimate Fighter Live Finale and break down the UFC on FX 3 main event between flyweight contenders Ian McCall and Demetrious Johnson.

New York City is the place to be Thursday as U.S. freestyle wrestlers Reece Humphrey, Coleman Scott, and Shawn Bunch all vie for the Olympic spot at 60 kilos. After an extraordinary set of circumstances that included a late qualification and Scott winning gold at the World Cup, the wrestling community will be glued to their computers to see who will come out of the weekend with a plane ticket to the London Games. So who is most likely to come out with the spot? Who isn't? Mike Riordan (Twitter: @coachmjr) is a fellow wrestling writer for SB Nation and joins me as we take a look at the arguments for, and against, each of the wrestlers. How they got here The Americans, largely Reece Humphrey and Shawn Bunch, failed to place high enough in any of the international qualifying tournaments prior to the 2012 U.S. Olympic Team Trials in April. The 2009 U.S. World Team member Shawn Bunch was tasked with wrestling in the Shanxi Province of China a week later in one of two remaining last chance Olympic qualifiers. To be sure that he was ready, Zeke Jones and USA Wrestling allowed him to sit out the Trials. Humphrey, it was widely assumed, was sitting out the Trials in case Bunch didn't place high enough and he'd be sent to Finland to qualify the weight at the final last chance. Bunch took third in China, qualifying the weight and eliminated the need for Humphrey to travel to Finland. Meanwhile Coleman Scott, the third man on the 60-kilo ladder in 2011, won the Olympic Team Trials and was sent to Azerbaijan to compete in the World Cup. Scott went undefeated, defeating 2008 Olympic bronze medalist/2011 World bronze medalist Kenichi Yumoto (Japan) and Malkhaz Zarkua (Georgia), who had placed fifth at the Worlds. All this drama left USA Wrestling in the position of deciding which wrestlers faced each other and when. The decision was made to give Bunch a bye based on the fact he qualified the weight and that Scott and Humphrey would have a single match wrestle-off to decide who faced Bunch. The Bunch vs. Humphrey/Scott Winner is a best-of-three competition. Shawn Bunch (Photo/John Sachs, Tech-Fall.com)Shawn Bunch Why Bunch will win the spot Foley: The guy has been around and having the momentum of qualification and the rest from having not had to plow through the Olympic Team Trials may very well benefit Bunch. The biggest advantage, however, comes from the fact that he has the entire day to rest, and won't have the extra stress of the first match. Maybe that's a disadvantage? Riordan: Experience. Bunch has been competing on the senior freestyle circuit at a high level for longer than either of the other two competitors. He was third at the U.S. World Team Trials as far back as 2007 and was the runner-up at the 2008 U.S. Olympic Team Trials. Why Bunch won't win the spot Foley: He's been less than spectacular in the big tournaments and though he qualified the weight he did lose in the quarterfinals of the tournament. He matches up poorly with Humphrey and could be in trouble if a streaking Scott meets him in the finals. Riordan: Pressure. Bunch has received a bye to the best-of-three finals once ... in the U.S. World team trials in 2010. There he dropped two straight matches to Mike Zadick. This time it's the U.S. Olympic Team Trials, the stakes are raised, and the pressure is more intense. Bunch has not proven that he can win the race from the pole position. Reece Humphrey (Photo/John Sachs, Tech-Fall.com)Reece Humphrey Why Humphrey will win the spot Foley: The man who took the spot in 2011 hasn't lost to American competition in a while. He beat Scott this year in the finals of the NYAC tournamen, 1-1, 1-0, and walked away with the deciding third match in last year's U.S. World Team Trials match against Bunch, 3-0, 3-0. Humphrey, like Bunch, trains at the Ohio Regional Training Center where he's getting great everyday looks by guys like the Stiebers. Riordan: Pedigree. Even without a father who was a World medalist, Humphrey possesses the most impressive pedigree of all three competitors. He has been the top freestyle wrestler in every age group since high school. Humphrey was a Fargo champ, a FILA Junior World Team member, University World Team member, and a Senior World Team member. All that is missing from his collection is Olympic Team membership. Why Humphrey won't win the spot Foley: Rumor was that he's been a little dinged up which has held him out of competition for several months. That layoff could mean some mat rust something that could affect him in the one-and-done wrestle-off with white-hot Scott. Riordan: Layoff. Humphrey last took the mat in live competition at the Yasar Dogu Invitational in February. Both of his competitors have taken part in substantial amounts of official competition in the meantime. Humphrey has some of the best workout partners available at the Ohio Regional Training Center, but there is no substitute for the real thing. Coleman Scott (Photo/John Sachs, Tech-Fall.com)Coleman Scott Why Scott will win the spot Foley: Save Jordan Burroughs, Scott is the most "on" wrestler America has right now. Under the tutelage of Olympians Kendall Cross, Kenny Monday, and with the coaching of two-time Olympic gold medalist John Smith, it's easy to see that Scott will be have a game plan ready to utilize. The World Cup gold medalist could just be finding his stride when it matters the most. Riordan: Scott was not tapped to qualify this weight and sit out of the original Trials. I have to imagine this made him a little mad. Since then, Scott has not lost a match, winning a very tough weight at the Trials and then going undefeated at the World Cup. Now to make the team he to beat last year's U.S World Team member, and then win twice against Shawn Bunch whose path to the best-of-three final ran through no domestic competition. This should fire up Scott considerably and he is dangerous when properly motivated. Why Scott won't win the spot Foley: He's taken some recent losses to his American opponents, including having never beaten Bunch and only bested Humphrey once (2009 World Team Trials, 1-0, 7-0). It's tough to assume that he can solve both riddles in the same day, though if he makes it past Humphrey he'll have an extra match to work out any wrinkles he has with Bunch's game. Riordan: History. Scott is the only one of the three hopefuls who has not been a U.S. World Team member or U.S. Open Champion. This means that he has a track record of not being as good as Humphrey and Bunch when it has mattered most. He has to beat not one, but two, more domestically decorated wrestlers to win an Olympic berth. The odds are not in his favor.

InterMat caught up with Oklahoma State coach John Smith and talked to him about Coleman Scott, Sergei Beloglazov, Tyler Caldwell, Mark Cody, Cael Sanderson, Jordan Burroughs, and more. You'll be coaching Coleman Scott on Thursday at the Grapple in the Big Apple. Scott has lost all his matches to Shawn Bunch, and all but one to Reece Humphrey. What are your thoughts on the upcoming wrestle-offs? Smith: It doesn't matter what the record was in the past. Coleman Scott hasn't wrestled Shawn Bunch in a while and none of that really matters anyways. It doesn't matter what happened in the past when this is for the Olympic team. The guy that wants it is the guy that is going out to execute and he's the guy who is gonna win. I think Coleman Scott is ready to do that. John Smith coaching at this year's NCAAs in St. Louis (Photo/Tony Rotundo, WrestlersAreWarriors.com)I heard Coleman Scott mention Kendall Cross' advice that World teams don't matter, only Olympic teams. Smith: It's been a year of prep, really three years of prep for Coleman. That experience has brought him forward in the process and will give him his best performance this week. The wrestle-off is just part of the journey in making the Olympic team and those other guys had their own journeys but Coleman has probably had it tougher than any wrestler ever has. Sitting out of the Olympic Trials was probably a huge advantage for those other guys, because take it from someone who has won a few of these the toughest thing to do is win the Trials. Coleman Scott is faced with the toughest journey, the toughest qualification, and I think you'll see that it's going to pay off for him. Take me back through the World Grand Championships. Do you see some similarities with the Grapple in the Big Apple? Smith: Yeah, these events have been a shot in the arm for wrestling. And there are a lot of similarities, just the fact that this is something happening way outside the norm for our sport with the attention and being in New York City. I think it's fun to watch and fun to be a part of. Those events back in Pittsburgh were also great events and there are a lot of similarities when it comes to big attendance and the Russians coming in. I think it's hard to look at all this and not see some good things happening. Do you stay in touch with Sergei Beloglazov? Smith: We have a good relationship. Absolutely. As far as staying in contact, not really unless I see him at a wrestling tournament. The Oklahoma State wrestling team is known for their technique. Right or wrong, fans associate your burnt orange singlet with low singles, crackdowns, and crisp setups. What is it like to be a part of your system? Is it true you guys don't do much live for the first several weeks or months? Smith: Always trying to get a system in place, but we are also always adjusting it for what we have in the room. That's just the challenge of coaching. We've changed it at times. You have to ask yourself, 'Are we starting five freshmen? And what should you do with these five freshmen?' Things have to be tweaked. You don't throw away all your lessons, but you tweak them and that kind of depends on what is not best for the athletes and what is going keep them coming into the room. Today you have to adjust it to your environment. John Smith (Photo/John Sachs, Tech-Fall.com)So you're not bull-headed about it being "the way we always do things?" Smith: Oh, no. That would be the most dangerous thing I could do. Tyler Caldwell actually cited the "Oklahoma State style" as one of the reasons he chose to transfer to Oklahoma State. That's a considerably risky thing to do once Bedlam comes around. Talk to me about his potential and how you see him toughening up your lineup. Smith: Tyler Caldwell doesn't need to worry about my expectations. He has high enough expectations. There is a lot made of style and everyone wants to score and I think Tyler's smart to try and find ways to score more points and that'll compliment his good, solid defense. I don't think you'll see a big change in his style, maybe just mentality and approach. His expectations are as high as it goes. You got some horses in the middle of your lineup, huh? Smith: (Laughs) You bet! You always think you're set in the summer and you look around the room and you think you got a nice look. Then in the middle of the year, you wonder what happened to that look. I think you have to earn the look. When you start thinking you have something for sure, that's about the first time you realize you don't. I expect that we as coaches and the wrestlers keep banging away and earning it. That's what every team needs to do, I think, bang away and earn it. Mark Cody and you go back a long way. He was even your head assistant for a few years. What is your relationship like today with Coach Cody? Smith: He was the grad assistant here for a year and then I hired him to be my head assistant for three years, from 2001-2003. It was right before he got the job at American. I have great respect for Mark and am proud to see what he's done and what he's accomplished. Things are just a lot more competitive now that he's living in the same state and coaching at Oklahoma. John Smith talks with Blake Rosholt during Bedlam (Photo/Austin Bernard, Tech-Fall.com)You started coaching the Cowboys immediately following the Olympics in 1992 at the age of 27. The program was under severe penalty by the NCAA. I guess I get why you took it, but you still had another gold medal performance in you. Why take the spot? What did that decision tree look like? Smith: If I wanted to go after the gold medal in 1996 it was probably something that I was in a position to do. You know it's not like I was going to fall off the face of the earth after winning six in a row. They got a lot tighter, and it's just tough for anyone. The pressure is there and there is nothing for you to do but to win. Taking second ain't gonna do it for you after winning four, five gold medals. I did what I needed to do when I needed to do it. And of course we had a great wrestler in Tom Brands that followed up after me. I was proud that he maintained that weight class for a lot of years after me. I have no regrets and I know it was time for me, emotionally, to move on. I was ready. I was satisfied with when I was done. You gotta want more in this sport to be successful and for me I was satisfied. I was able to walk off the mat and have a good feeling while walking. What did you think of Cael's comeback in 2011? Smith: I have great respect for what Cael did last year. I think he ticks a little bit differently than me, than everyone. Him going in and competing, maybe that completed him in some ways, completed his journey. Maybe going through the event helped him complete his quest as an athlete. We always think of careers in terms of wins and losses, but for the wrestler it's not always wins and losses you're looking for. Sometimes you have something else and I think that's what he probably solved. It was brave of him to come back. John Smith greets Cayle Byers as he comes off the mat (Photo/Tony Rotundo, WrestlersAreWarriors.com)You won your first NCAA team title in 1994, the first season the team was allowed back in postseason competition after the year suspension in 1993. You hadn't used any scholarships in two seasons, correct? How did that season affect you as a coach? Did you feel like that was the most fulfilling of your five NCAA team titles? Smith: We didn't have a lot of room to make errors that year, or even for guys to get injured. The lineup was solid, but we had no depth. The sanctions definitely depleted everything as far as that was concerned. But looking back and thinking about Mark Branch coming from a losing record to win an NCAA title, and of course Pat Smith was trying to win his fourth title. The dynamics of that team were really important and ended up being the reason they excelled. Maybe the biggest thing that happened for that team was when Alan Fried decided he was going to stay in Stillwater. That was the key, I think. Without Alan that title wasn't possible, because things were looking pretty bleak at one time, but Fried staying meant the difference. I recently read an article about your son Joe, who won his first high school state title. Congrats! The article said you didn't start coaching him until he was 12. Does that mean he didn't start wrestling until then? That can't be possible, right? Smith: No, no. He's been wrestling since he was six or seven. I'm not saying that's the way to do it, but he's always been in good hands. Speaking of family, which Smith brother had the most talent? Smith: Well, that's probably a better question to ask my brothers. We talk about talent all the time, things like "talent" and "explosiveness," but the difference is that those things can't maintain, or we talk about it with wrestlers who don't have the metal capacity to sustain and use those talents. I think the better question would be who was the most mentally tough of us all. That answer is Pat Smith. I don't think he was very talented and he didn't start winning until later in his wrestling career, like eighth or ninth grade, but what he had to be the first four-time NCAA champion? Wow. That was a process which draws a lot of attention and it was a whole different type of attention than me winning six gold medals because that was all out of the country. Pat was one of the most mentally tough guys I've ever coached and to see him have that success was special. You know, "talent" that just doesn't get it done. You should think about a career in politics. Smith: (Laughs) See how I made that into a new question? John Smith with Jordan Burroughs at the U.S. Olympic Team Trials (Photo/Tony Rotundo, WrestlersAreWarriors.com)Who wins in a match between Kenny Monday and Jordan Burroughs? Smith: That's a tough one and probably not a fair one. Kenny made three Olympic teams. Anyone can win one match, but who can sustain things over a long time. Jordan can beat anyone once, same with Kenny. People that sustain greatness are impressive and Jordan shows every sign of being able to sustain things. I think you judge them by how they sustain their focus, and how they deal with winning and money and things that come into their life. The good thing about Burroughs is from what I've seen he's been able to sustain that drive through this Olympic year. Tell you what, that's a great question to ask once he's made a few more Olympic teams. You did it again. You changed the question! OK, I know you're a big time hunter ... What's your greatest hunting story? Hunting conquest? Smith: I probably read more and buy more stuff for hunting than I ever do hunt, but I tell you I'm always prepared. I love to bird hunt and that's probably my favorite animal to hunt. When I get out there it's usually to go pheasant hunting or quail hunting. I like the excitement and challenge of it, and with pheasant hunting I like the workout which can be as much as walking 15 miles. That's definitely my choice. I also love to bow hunt. Obviously in Oklahoma it's white tail deer and overall I'd say I get out there about two to three times a year. I also have a great love for fishing, but again I probably read more and watch more on TV. Sometimes that's all I need, probably because it's all I get. Putting in too many hours to enjoy the outdoors? What's your average week like? Smith: I put in a lot of hours, but it's what you love to do. You only count hours if you hate your job. I love mine.

MOUNT PLEASANT -- Central Michigan head wrestling coach Tom Borrelli has named Jason Mester as the program's new assistant coach. "I'm excited to welcome Jason back to our university and our wrestling program," said CMU head coach Tom Borrelli. "He had an outstanding career here as a student-athlete, and from that experience he has grown into a successful and knowledgable wrestling coach. Every individual in our program will benefit from the expertise that Jason will bring to the practice room." Mester returns to his alma mater after spending the past two seasons as an assistant coach at the University of Missouri. He helped lead the Tigers to their first Big 12 Tournament championship in 2012 after a runner-up finish in 2011. Missouri boasted a school-record four individual Big 12 champions in 2012 and qualified an individual for the NCAA Championships in all 10 weight classes. Prior to Missouri, Mester spent five seasons as the strength and conditioning coach at the University of Nebraska. He worked directly with 14 All-Americans and three NCAA Championships finalists -- including two national champions -- and was part of a staff that led Nebraska to a pair of fourth-place team finishes at the NCAA Championships. One of the top wrestlers in CMU history, Mester is tied for 11th in school history with 104 career victories from 2001-04. He won three Mid-American Conference championships (2001, 2003, 2004) at 141 pounds and was an All-American in both 2003 and 2004. A three-time recipient of the Chick Sherwood Award as CMU's Most Valuable Wrestler, Mester was named MAC Wrestler of the Year as a senior. Mester's career winning percentage of .806 (104-25 overall) still ranks fourth overall in program history, and he owns two of the top eight single-season winning percentages in CMU history: .897 (26-3 overall, No. 6 all-time) in 2002-03 and .891 (33-4 overall, No. 8 all-time) in 2003-04. Mester earned a sport studies degree from CMU in 2004. He spent his first year following graduation as an assistant coach at CMU, helping lead the Chippewas to MAC regular season and tournament titles and a 12th-place finish at the NCAA Championships in 2005.

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. -- Nick Simmons, a 2011 USA Wrestling World Team Member, is coming to Bloomington to serve as an assistant coach for the Hoosier Wrestling program announced Head Coach Duane Goldman on Monday (June 4). Nick Simmons"Nick will be an exciting addition to our staff," said Goldman. "He has been tremendously successful at every level of wrestling, not only as an athlete, but as a coach. He will bring a unique wealth of knowledge to our team." Simmons spent the last three seasons as the Director of Wrestling Operations at Oregon State University while also competing and training in international freestyle events. "I'm thrilled for the opportunity and looking forward to becoming a part of the Hoosier program," said Simmons. "It's exciting to be back in the Big Ten and work with some of the best wrestlers in the country." The United States' highest ranked 55kg (121 lbs) freestyle wrestler, will be the U.S. alternate for the 2012 London Olympics after finishing second at the U.S. Olympic Trials in April. His international successes for numerous, highlighted by a 2011 U.S. World Team Trials championship. A more-detailed list of freestyle accomplishments can be found below: 2011 US World Team Member 2011 World Trials Champ (55kg) 2010 World Team Alternate 2009 World Team Alternate 2009 US Nationals Champion 2008 Olympic Alternate Pan American Champ University National Champ (Outstanding Wrestler & Most Falls award in same year) 2nd at US Nationals in 2007 3rd at 2005 World Team Trials 5th at 2005 University World Games 5th at 2004 Olympic Trials Simmons is no stranger to Big Ten Wrestling, constructing a four-time All-American career at Michigan State University. With Goldman, assistant coach Joe LeBlanc and Simmons all on board, the Hoosier coaching staff is currently comprised of a trio of four-time All-Americans. The former Spartan racked up 138 collegiate wins, the 2nd most in Michigan State history. Simmons won three Big Ten titles and was also crowned champion at the Midlands three times. His 46 falls are an all-time school record. His success on the mat started early with Simmons posting a perfect 211-0 prep record, earning four MHSAA state titles. He racked up 208 wins by fall or technical fall, including 157 consecutive falls and setting a national record for falls in a single season with 57. He finished his career with two Asics High School First Team All-America accolades and three U.S. Junior Nationals Freestyle titles, making the finals four years. He was named the 1999 Jr. Schalles Award, given to the nation's best pinner. Simmons is from Williamston, Mich., and graduated from Michigan State in 2007 with a degree in Human Resource Social Science. He and his wife, Nicole, were married in October 2011.

Spenser Mango

Freestyle 55 Kilos: 1st: Evan Silver (Cardinal WC) won by forfeit over Jerome Robinson (HRWA) 3rd: Cruse Aarhus (Panther WC) dec. Anthony Zanetta (Pittsburgh WC), 2-1, 2-2 5th: Matt Gurule (Hawkeye WC) won by injury default over David White (Binghamton) 7th: Austin Miller (Invictus WC) dec. Michael Rhone (BTWC), 2-3, 3-2, 1-0 60 Kilos: 1st: Chris Dardanes (Minnesota Storm) dec. Jarrod Garnett (NRV Mat Club), 0-2, 2-0, 5-2 3rd: Sam White (OTC) dec. Zach Horan (Central Michigan RTC), 1-0, 2-0 5th: Alan Waters (Missouri Wrestling Foundation) dec. Shelton Mack (Pittsburgh WC), 0-1, 4-1, 7-3 7th: Mason Beckman (LVAC) dec. A.J. Schopp (Young Guns), 2-1, 0-2, 1-1 63 Kilos: 1st: Nathan McCormick (Missouri Wrestling Foundation) dec. Joe Colon (Panther WC), 3-3, 1-1 3rd: Daryl Thomas (Illini WC) dec. Brandon Nelson (Purdue), 2-6, 7-4, 3-1 5th: Logan Arlis (Illini WC) dec. Vince Rodriguez (Patriot Elite WC), 2-0, 3-2 7th: John Fahy (Unattached) dec. Tyler Scotton (Boston), 5-0, 8-0 66 Kilos: 1st: Jason Chamberlain (Broncs WC) dec. Nick Dardanes (Minnesota Storm), 0-1, 1-0, 3-0 3rd: Cole VonOhlen (Falcon Training Club) dec. Dean Pavlou (Chattanooga Club), 2-1, 9-2 5th: Drake Houdashelt (Missouri Wrestling Foundation) dec. Ian Paddock (Ohio State), 4-0, 2-3, 2-0 7th: Chris Villalonga (Cornell) dec. Trevor Melde (SKWC), 3-0, 2-1 70 Kilos: 1st: Ian Miller (Golden Pride WC) dec. Frank Hickman (Husky WC), 4-1, 6-0 3rd: Kyle Borshoff (DCAC) dec. Kyle Bradley (Missouri Wrestling Foundation), 2-1, 0-1, 2-1 5th: Brad Dolezal (Minnesota Storm) dec. Bryce Busler (Husky WC), 3-2, 0-2, 5-2 7th: Jake O`Hara (NYAC) dec. Lex Ozias (NRV Mat Club), 1-0, 4-4, 2-2 74 Kilos: 1st: Jake Salazar (Cliff Keen WC) dec. Eric Hess (LVAC), 1-0, 1-0 3rd: Jackson Morse (Illini WC) pinned Corey Lear (Invictus WC), 0:46) 5th: Bobby Barnhisel (Navy Mat Club) won by injury default over Vlad Dombrovskiy (Team Natomas) 7th: David Bonin (Panther WC) dec. Nestor Taffer (Brickhouse), 0-4, 1-0, 4-2 79 Kilos: 1st: Josh Asper (Terrapin WC) dec. Colton Sponseller (OHIO RTC), 1-0, 0-1, 3-1 3rd: Conrad Polz (Illini WC) dec. Jimmy Sheptock (Terrapin WC), 2-0, 2-0 5th: Dan Yates (Cliff Keen WC) dec. John-Martin Cannon (Buffalo WC), 1-0, 0-1, 4-2 7th: Todd Porter (Missouri Wrestling Foundation) dec. Jordan Blanton (Illini WC), 1-0, 3-1 84 Kilos: 1st: Michael Letts (Navy Mat Club) dec. Kevin Steinhaus (Minnesota Storm), 2-0, 2-1 3rd: Ethen Lofthouse (Hawkeye WC) dec. Austin Trotman (Appalachian Wrestling), 3-2, 1-0 5th: Robert Hamlin (LVAC) won by forfeit over Clayton Foster (Gator WC) 7th: Ryan Loder (Panther WC) dec. John Eblen (Missouri Wrestling Foundation), 3-1, 2-1 96 Kilos: 1st: Dustin Kilgore (OTC) dec. Matt Wilps (Pittsburgh WC), 2-0, 6-1 3rd: Deron Winn (OTC) dec. Scott Schiller (Minnesota Storm), 7-5, 2-2 5th: Micah Burak (OTC) dec. Adam Fager (Wolverine WC), 3-0, 4-0 7th: Max Huntley (Cliff Keen WC) dec. Josef Rau (Elmhurst ), 8-0, 0-2, 5-1 120 Kilos: 1st: Tony Nelson (Minnesota Storm) dec. Dom Bradley (Missouri Wrestling Foundation), 1-1, 2-0 3rd: Jeremy Johnson (Bobcat WC) dec. Joe Rizqallah (Michigan WC), 0-1, 5-0, 5-0 5th: Ernest James (Fighting Scotts WC) dec. Matthew Meuleners (Aberdeen Wrestling CLub), 1-1, 3-0 7th: Brandon Williamson (Unattached) dec. Kyle Frey (Finger Lakes WC), 5-1, 4-5, 5-1 Greco-Roman 55 Kilos: 1st: Max Nowry (NYAC/USOEC) dec. David Rivera (UPRA), 5-0, 7-0 3rd: Michael Cooker (Middle) 60 Kilos: 1st: Paul Tellgren (Minnesota Storm) dec. Alan Waters (Missouri Wrestling Foundation), 2-3, 1-0, 1-0 3rd: Dmitry Ryabchinskiy (NYAC/USOEC) dec. Oliver Lopez (NYAC), 2-0, 1-0 5th: Alfredo Gray (Golden Flash Club) dec. Greg Rinker (Falcon Training Club), 2-0, 6-3 7th: Joel Ake (Marines) 63 Kilos: 1st: Eric Chandler (YES Wrestling) dec. Thrasher Porcher (USOEC), 2-0, 0-2, 1-0 3rd: Jason` Chudzinski (New York) dec. Tyler Chapple (Penn WC), 2-0, 4-0 5th: Gavin Moore (Bobcat WC) pinned Charles Wanty (World Gold WC), 0-6, 1:46 66 Kilos: 1st: Nick Alvarez (USOEC) pinned Daniel Owebey (North Carolina Pembroke), 3-0, 1:12 3rd: Travis Himmelman (Bear Cave) dec. James P Hogan (ATWA), 3-0, 5-1 5th: Danny O`Malley (Terrapin WC) dec. Carter McElhany (Falcon Training Club), 1-0, 4-1 7th: Logan Burch (Falcon Training Club) 70 Kilos: 1st: Bryce Saddoris (Marines) dec. Joey Kubica (Unattached), 3-0, 2-0 3rd: Elijah Sullivan (NYAC) dec. Alex Fleming (USOEC), 1-0, 3-0 5th: Wally Maziarz (New York) dec. John Bozarth (USOEC), 4-0, 7-0 7th: Santonio Thompson (YES Wrestling) tech. fall Vincent Torres (NYAC), 6-0, 6-0 74 Kilos: 1st: Tanner Andrews (USOEC) dec. Bo Beckman (NYAC), 2-1, 6-0 3rd: Corey Hope (USOEC) dec. Kory Deberry (Tucson Badger WC), 4-0, 10-0 5th: Mike Monson (Cleveland WC) dec. Josh Kreimier (Falcon Training Club), 4-1, 1-0 7th: J. Daniel Baucke (Falcon Training Club) tech. fall Logan Addis (Wolverine WC), 6-0, 7-2 79 Kilos: 1st: Kendrick Sanders (NYAC) dec. John Stefanowicz (Marines), 3-0, 1-0 3rd: Dylan Reel (Minnesota Storm) dec. Geordan Speiller (Florida Jets), 2-0, 2-0 5th: Josh Castellano (USOEC) dec. Santiayo Martinez (Florida Jets), 1-0, 3-0 7th: Sheldon Brandenburg (Cleveland WC) tech. fall Kyle Ramey (Strong and Courageous), 7-0, 6-0 84 Kilos: 1st: Mark Stenberg (NYAC) dec. Lee Wildes (USOEC), 5-0, 1-0 3rd: Mike Larson (Missouri Wrestling Foundation) dec. Adam Carey (TWC), 1-0, 6-2 5th: Terrence Zaleski (YES Wrestling) dec. Robert Greg Isley (Falcon Training Club), 7-0, 0-2, 1-0 96 Kilos: 1st: Caylor Williams (YES Wrestling) dec. Marcus Finau (NYAC), 0-1, 1-0, 6-0 3rd: Alex Polizzi (wildcat wc) dec. Josef Rau (Illinois Kids), 5-0, 1-1, 1-0 5th: Josh Mohr (Falcon Training Club) dec. Dominique Walker (Southeast Fire Wrestling), 2-0, 1-0 7th: Beau Wenger (Bobcat WC) dec. Karim Mansour (Unattached), 6-4, 3-0 120 Kilos: 1st: Toby Erickson (NYAC) dec. Anthony Edgren (UWW), 2-0, 1-0 3rd: Henry Chirino (Bear Cave) dec. Zack Wilcox (MWC), 1-0, 1-0 5th: David Woody (YES Wrestling) won by injury default over Jared Erickson (Falcon Training Club)

Related: Recap Freestyle 42 Kilos: 1st: Andrew Nieman (Oklahoma) dec. Christopher Cuccolo (New York), 5-0, 5-0 3rd: Clayton Stillwagon (Montana) dec. Micheal Doetsch (Maryland), 7-0, 5-0 5th: Mason Daugherty (Ohio) dec. Zac McCauley (Ohio), 4-0, 4-0 46 Kilos: 1st: Jordan Kutler (New Jersey) dec. Mitchell McKee (Minnesota), 3-1, 6-0 3rd: Doyle Trout (Nebraska) dec. Trenton Watson (Colorado), 3-0, 1-1, 3-0 5th: Isaac Jimenez (Texas) dec. Ty Lucas (Florida), 1-0, 2-1 50 Kilos: 1st: Tommy Thorn (Minnesota) dec. Stevan Micic (Indiana), 3-3, 5-0 3rd: Austin Assad (Ohio) dec. Tucker Charles (New Jersey), 2-2, 2-5, 3-0 5th: Luke Pletcher (Pennsylvania) dec. AC Headlee (Pennsylvania), 4-6, 1-0, 2-0 54 Kilos: 1st: Joey McKenna (New Jersey) dec. Zac Hall (Michigan), 7-0, 1-0 3rd: Fredy Stroker (Iowa) dec. Dalton Macri (Pennsylvania), 1-1, 1-1 5th: Jordan Laster (Illinois) dec. Seth Brayfield (Missouri), 1-0, 1-1 58 Kilos: 1st: Seth Gross (Minnesota) dec. Anthony Giraldo (New Jersey), 1-0, 1-2, 2-1 3rd: Sean Fausz (Kentucky) dec. Mark Voss (Minnesota), 2-3, 4-2, 2-0 5th: Logan Massa (Michigan) tech. fall Logan Ryan (Iowa), 6-0, 6-0 63 Kilos: 1st: Zain Retherford (Pennsylvania) dec. Bryce Brill (Illinois), 2-3, 4-1, 2-1 3rd: Anthony Ashnault (New Jersey) dec. Mason Manville (Minnesota), 2-1, 2-1 5th: Fox Baldwin (Florida) won by forfeit Dean Heil (Ohio) 69 Kilos: 1st: Jack Bass (Texas) dec. Bo Nickal (Texas), 4-0, 4-0 3rd: Mark Hall (Minnesota) dec. Ryan Blees (North Dakota), 1-0, 1-0 5th: Myles Martin (New Jersey) dec. Logan Marcicki (Michigan), 4-0, 2-1 76 Kilos: 1st: Chance Marsteller (Pennsylvania) dec. Zachary Beard (Oklahoma), 3-0, 6-0 3rd: Andrew Garcia (Michigan) won by injury default over Chandler Rogers (Washington) 5th: Jordan Cooks (Michigan) pinned Ryder Newman (Nevada), 7-0, 1:18 85 Kilos: 1st: Mitch Sliga (Indiana) dec. Eric Morris (Pennsylvania), 1-0, 2-0 3rd: Ricky Robertson (Illinois) dec. Lance Benick (Minnesota), 7-0, 3-1 5th: Alex Deciantis (Pennsylvania) tech. fall Drew Kary (North Dakota), 7-0, 7-0 100 Kilos: 1st: Garrett Ryan (Arizona) dec. Trae Story (Minnesota), 2-1, 2-1 3rd: Logan Kirby (Maryland) dec. Connor Tolley (Indiana), 6-0, 8-3 5th: Josh Lehner (Ohio) pinned Austin Linden (Ohio), 1:58 125 Kilos: 1st: Nathan Butler (Kansas) dec. Billy Miller (Ohio), 4-2, 7-0 3rd: Michael Johnson Jr. (Pennsylvania) dec. Carter Shipley (Florida), 5-1, 4-0 5th: Wesley Bernard (Indiana) won by injury default over Richard Sharek (North Carolina) Greco-Roman 42 Kilos: 1st: Dalton Roberts (Michigan) tech. fall Tanner Cox (Utah), 7-0, 6-0 3rd: Christopher Cuccolo (New York) dec. Micheal Doetsch (Maryland), 1-0, 2-3, 6-0 5th: Louie Hayes (Illinois) dec. Clayton Stillwagon (Montana), 5-4, 4-1 46 Kilos: 1st: Danny Boychuck (New Jersey) dec. Mitchell McKee (Minnesota), 4-1, 1-0 3rd: Cody Jackson (Oregon) dec. Brandon Staley (Florida), 6-0, 1-1 5th: Michael Beck (Maryland) tech. fall Adam Whitesell (Maryland), 5-6, 8-3, 6-0 50 Kilos: 1st: Kyle Norstrem (Florida) dec. Ethan Koan (Missouri), 2-1, 4-0 3rd: Skyler Petry (Minnesota) won by injury default over Blane Tschida (Minnesota) 5th: Ty Pelot (Wisconsin) dec. Ty Lucas (Florida) FF 54 Kilos: 1st: James Flint (Florida) dec. Tristan Manderfeld (Minnesota), 2-0, 0-2, 1-0 3rd: Kyle Sether (Oregon) won by injury default over Grant Boggs (Montana) 5th: Jonathan Marmolejo (Illinois) dec. Brian Burchett (Washington), 1-0, 1-0 58 Kilos: 1st: Dylan Lucas (Florida) dec. Blaine Invernon (Idaho), 5-2, 0-6, 1-1 3rd: Seth Gross (Minnesota) pinned Michael Cook (Idaho), 1:37 5th: Jacob Rubio (Texas) dec. Anthony Giraldo (New Jersey), 1-0, 1-1, 3-0 63 Kilos: 1st: Hayden Tuma (Idaho) dec. Geordan Martinez (Colorado), 1-0, 6-0 3rd: Renaldo Rodriguez-Spencer (New York) dec. Mason Manville (Minnesota), 4-2, 3-1 5th: Joseph Grable (Washington) won by injury default over Grant Leeth (Missouri) 69 Kilos: 1st: Grant LaMont (Utah) dec. Xavier Montalvo (Illinois), 4-0, 0-2, 4-0 3rd: Bo Nickal (Texas) pinned Logan Breitenbach (Maryland), 0:20 5th: Kimball Bastian (Utah) dec. Mitchell Berenz (Wisconsin), 1-2, 2-0, 1-1 76 Kilos: 1st: Chandler Rogers (Washington) pinned Nick Corba (Ohio), 0:10 3rd: Davonte Mahomes (Illinois) dec. Jake Stilling (Wisconsin), 4-0, 3-0 5th: Eric Morris (Pennsylvania) pinned Kyle Bateman (Oregon), 6-0, 0:45 85 Kilos: 1st: Raymond O'Donnell (Pennsylvania) pinned Ricky Robertson (Illinois), 1:10 3rd: Troy Hembury (Pennsylvania) dec. Logan Blackwood (Idaho), 2-0, 2-0 5th: Jon Wixom (Utah) dec. Cory Daniel (Maryland), 10-3, 5-1 100 Kilos: 1st: Garrett Ryan (Arizona) pinned Josh Lehner (Ohio), 1:58 3rd: Trae Story (Minnesota) dec. Connor Tolley (Indiana), 0-1, 4-1, 2-0 5th: Logan Kirby (Maryland) won by forfeit over Alan Taylor (Michigan) 125 Kilos: 1st: Michael Johnson Jr. (Pennsylvania) dec. Nathan Butler (Kansas), 2-0, 0-1, 1-0 3rd: Canter Shipley (Florida) pinned Richard Sharek (North Carolina), 1:23

Related: All-Americans AKRON, Ohio -- The ten-member Cadet Freestyle World Team, which will compete in Baku, Azerbaijan, August 21-27, was determined this weekend at the National Championships held on the campus of the University of Akron. During Sunday's finals matches, Tommy Thorn from Minnesota was the lone wrestler to make a return appearance onto the squad. Tommy Thorn is back on the Cadet World Team after winning the title at 50 kilos (Photo/Jeff Beshey, The Guillotine)Last year in the Cadet World Championships at 46 kilos, he won the first two matches and then lost in the semifinals to finish seventh place. This year, Thorn jumped up one weight class to 50 kilos. Entering the championship match, he won all five previous matches in two straight periods. Likewise, his opponent Stevan Micic from Indiana had yet to lose a period from his seven bouts on Saturday. The pair of Cadet National freestyle champions from last summer in Fargo -- Thorn at 105 pounds and Micic at 98 -- wrestled a tight first period, which Thorn won 3-3 due to a two-point exposure off a cement mixer right before time expired. Thorn came out strong in the second period with two takedowns, then got an exposure and a lengthy hold off that second takedown to close out the 3-3, 5-0 victory. "I'm happy to make the team, and ready to win (the World title) this year," Thorn said. "I learned a lot about the foreign styles last year, and feel I can thrive if I keep the pressure on the opponent." The other finals match featuring a pair of champions from last summer's Cadet Nationals in Fargo was at 76 kilos, where Chance Marsteller from Pennsylvania dominated a very game Zach Beard from Oklahoma 3-0, 6-0 in two periods. Prior to the final, Beard had amassed a 7-0 record against some very tough opponents, including five victories by either shutout or pin. However, Marsteller came in with an even stronger Saturday performance -- going 6-0 without giving up a single point on four techs, a pin, and a shutout decision. That continues a pattern of absolute dominance for the two-time undefeated state champion and two-time Cadet National freestyle champion. "Regardless of opponent, I just want to push myself technique-wise, conditioning-wise, and pace of match wise so I'm prepared for when the tougher matches occur," said Marsteller, who was also motivated by a disappointing FILA Junior National tournament where he went two-and-out. "I just didn't get the work in I needed before that tournament to beat the college opposition I faced," added Marsteller. But I trained very hard before this to redeem myself, feel that I did, and I'm looking forward to doing my best at Cadet Worlds." He'll be joined on the World Team by another wrestler from Pennsylvania in Zain Retherford, who was named the tournament's Outstanding Wrestler after winning the 63-kilo weight class, which was the tournament's toughest. In seven matches on Saturday to advance to the final, he did not lose a single period against three scholastic state champions, two state runners-up, and a sixth opponent that was a Beast of the East and POWERade runner-up. Retherford's finals opponent was Bryce Brill from Illinois, an All-American in his two prior FILA Cadet appearances and a 2010 Cadet National freestyle runner-up in Fargo. Prior to the final, Brill had absolutely dominated his six opponents to the tune of five pins or techs and only giving up points in two of his 12 periods. Things kind of started that way, as Brill jumped out to a 3-0 lead in the first period off a one-point takedown and then a two-point takedown with exposure. Retherford had two takedowns in the later portion of the period but still lost 3-2. It was a different story in the second period, when Retherford jumped out to a 2-0 lead and then scored a late counter takedown with exposure to seal that period 4-1. Brill scored first in the third on a takedown, but Retherford was able to score a reversal off of an attempted lace by Brill to go ahead, and then scored a match sealing takedown late off of Brill's attack to win the match 2-3, 4-1, 2-1. "I didn't cut any weight, and (Brill) was the biggest opponent I faced," said Retherford. "After the first minute I was able to adjust to the strength and started to get to my attacks, angles, and offense." "It feels awesome to make the team, and I can't wait," added Retherford. "This is what I've been working toward." Joining those three on the team will be a pair of wrestlers from Blair Academy in New Jersey -- Jordan Kutler at 101 pounds and Joey McKenna at 119. Kutler, a National Prep champion during the high school season, earned his way onto the team with a 4-1, 6-0 victory over Mitchell McKee from Minnesota. "I've improved a lot over the last year being at Blair," said Kutler. "(Head) Coach (Jeff) Buxton pays a lot of attention to me, and works with me win or lose. It all paid off (in the form of this title), and was a lot of fun." McKenna, who placed third at the FILA Junior Nationals at 55 kilos, dominated his way through this tournament with an 8-0 record and only giving up a single point along the way. He also had six victories by pin or technical fall. The championship match started out in similar form, as he won the first period 7-0 with a three-point feet-to-back takedown and then a pair of consecutive gut wrenches to end the period. It was a little tighter in the second period, with the lone point coming on a push-out to seal the 7-0, 1-0 victory. "The kids at FILA Juniors were stronger and older, so you have to be in better condition and shape," observed McKenna about wrestling against the higher-level opposition. "Then when wrestling kids at my own age and level, it's easier to score and get to my offense." Interestingly, this is his first major freestyle title while in high school, despite earning a pair of Cadet National Greco-Roman championships. "Those past disappointments, and placing lower than in Greco which I do just for fun, gave me even more drive to finally get it done," McKenna added. At 58 kilos, Seth Gross joins Thorn as a World Team representative from Minnesota with a three-period victory over Anthony Giraldo from New Jersey, who had made the finals despite losing a match during the pool competition. Gross, a Cadet National freestyle champion last summer at 112 pounds, won the first period 1-0 on a takedown, but Giraldo bounced back to win the second period 2-1 with a two-point takedown/exposure, though Gross scored a takedown late in the period to shrink the margin. Gross scored the initial point of the third period on a pushout call, and got a second point when that call withstood the protest of Giraldo's corner, which wanted a three-point feet-to-back granted to him. However, the officials judged the pushout to occur first. Giraldo did score a late takedown, but could not get a turn or score after they were put up to neutral. "I just try to stay in position, avoid giving up dumb points, and score at any time I can," said Gross, a 2011 InterMat JJ Classic champion. "I've been training for the World Team ever since the season ended, and I'm truly grateful and blessed for the opportunity." Entering this morning's 69-kilo final, it was guaranteed that a wrestler from Allen, Texas would be the representative for a second straight year -- with both Jack Bass and Bo Nickal making it to the final. Last year Oliver Pierce won this weight class at FILA Cadets, and was fifth at the World Championships in Hungary. Their paths to the final could not have been more different. Yesterday, Nickal went 7-0 with four pins, including ones over Mark Hall of Minnesota -- the nation's top incoming ninth-grader -- and 2011 Cadet National freestyle champion Dylan Milonas of New Jersey. On the other hand, Bass went 6-0 but had two matches go into the third period, and lost the first period in another match that he won by fall in the second period. However, on Sunday morning, it was Bass who controlled the show in a 4-0, 4-0 victory. "I just looked at this as practice," said Bass. We're drill partners and know each other extremely well." "I just tried to stay out of the ties and get to my shots," he added. Incoming ninth-grader Andrew Nieman, who will be attending Stillwater High School in Oklahoma, made the team at 42 kilos with a 3-0, 2-0 victory over Chris Cuccolo from New York. In Nieman's four matches, he did not give up a single point. He is the lone member of the team to not have at least a state championship final appearance on the resume. In fact, all but Bass (a two-time runner-up) have at least one state or National Prep championship medal. Seniors-to-be Mitch Sliga from Indiana and Garrett Ryan from Arizona are the last two members of the team. Sliga, a double Cadet National champion the last two summers in Fargo won the 85-kilo title 1-0, 2-0 on a pair of offensive clinches over Eric Morris from Pennsylvania. Morris was one of four wrestlers that Sliga beat during the two-day tournament who finished top three in Cadet freestyle last summer. "It was about conditioning and heart," said Sliga in terms of how he was able to navigate the tough road on the way to a title. "I was ready every match, as I knew one loss was all it would take to derail my chance to get this incredible opportunity (to wrestle internationally at the Cadet Worlds)." Ryan, the 100-kilo champion, was the lone wrestler to win both the Greco-Roman and freestyle tournaments in Akron this weekend. He did so with a 2-1, 2-1 victory over Trae Story from Minnesota in which he got out to a 2-0 lead in each period. During this past season, Ryan went 53-2 in winning a state title at 170 pounds. Shortly after the season, he indicated that he got up to about 195 pounds. He's also grown about one or two inches in height since then, and kept on adding weight, weighing in this weekend at 219. "Since I'm tall with big shoulders, I just decided to keep lifting heavy to keep growing into a college 197 or heavyweight," said Ryan. Rounding out the champions was Nathan Butler from Kansas, who won the heavyweight (125-kilo) weight class, which is not one that is contested at the FILA Cadet World Championships. He earned a 4-2, 7-0 victory over Billy Miller from Ohio in the final, but in reality the title was won on Saturday when he beat Michael Johnson Jr. from Pennsylvania, 2-1, 0-2, 1-0 in the pool competition. Johnson was third in Cadet freestyle last summer in Fargo and had beaten Butler to win the Greco-Roman title on Friday afternoon. "I got experience out of wrestling him (on Friday)," said Butler about beating Johnson. "I knew he was a big kid, maintained good positions, and that I would have to create better attacks to win." Finals Results: 42 kilos: Andrew Nieman (Oklahoma) dec. Christopher Cuccolo (New York), 5-0, 5-0 46 kilos: Jordan Kutler (New Jersey) dec. Mitchell McKee (Minnesota), 3-1, 6-0 50 kilos: Tommy Thorn (Minnesota) dec. Stevan Micic (Indiana), 3-3, 5-0 54 kilos: Joey McKenna (New Jersey) dec. Zac Hall (Michigan), 7-0, 1-0 58 kilos: Seth Gross (Minnesota) dec. Anthony Giraldo (New Jersey), 1-0, 1-2, 2-1 63 kilos: Zain Retherford (Pennsylvania) dec. Bryce Brill (Illinois), 2-3, 4-1, 2-1 69 kilos: Jack Bass (Texas) dec. Bo Nickal (Texas), 4-0, 4-0 76 kilos: Chance Marsteller (Pennsylvania) dec. Zachary Beard (Oklahoma), 3-0, 6-0 85 kilos: Mitch Sliga (Indiana) dec. Eric Morris (Pennsylvania), 1-0, 2-0 100 kilos: Garrett Ryan (Arizona) dec. Trae Story (Minnesota), 2-1, 2-1 125 kilos: Nathan Butler (Kansas) dec. Billy Miller (Ohio), 4-2, 7-0

Fight Now USA Presents Takedown Wrestling from the Brute studios in Des Moines, Iowa at 1460 KXNO. Takedown Wrestling is brought to you by Kemin Agrifoods! It's Hall of Fame Weekend in Stillwater. We'll be there, will you? NWHOF.org This Saturday it's Takedown Wrestling Radio. Join Scott Casber and Brad Johnson with the Takedown Wrestling Headline News this Saturday from 9 to 11 a.m. CT/10 a.m. to noon ET. Special guest host Montell Marion. This week's guests: 9:03 Carl Adams, Boston head wrestling coach 9:20 Joel Sharratt, Air Force head wrestling coach 9:40 Rick Young, "Scrap Iron Kings" Producer 9:50 Ty Barkley, Max Muscle Sports Nutrition Update 10:00 Jim Heffernan, Illinois head wrestling coach 10:20 Spenser Mango, U.S. Olympic Greco-Roman wrestler 10:40 Kyle Klingman, Dan Gable Museum Director 10:50 Amy Ruble, Wildrose Casino and Resort GM

InterMat senior writer T.R. Foley answers reader questions about NCAA wrestling, international wrestling, recruiting, or anything loosely related to wrestling. You have until Thursday night every week to send questions to Foley's Twitter or email account. Want to view a past mailbag? View archives. Q: When the seeding for this past NCAA tournament came out, a lot of people were critical of the seeding committee. I recall reading an article on InterMat questioning the 174-pound weight class with Ed Ruth as the No. 1 seed instead of Nick Amuchastegui. Looking back it appears that the seeding committee did a pretty good job as seven No. 1 seeds were crowned as national champs. Who is on the NCAA seeding committee? Overall, how do you think they did? What can be improved in the seeding for the NCAA tournament? -- Tom K. Ed Ruth (Photo/John Sachs, Tech-Fall.com)Foley: The seeding committee did do a good job in 2012, though seven No. 1 seeds winning the tournament doesn't outperform the historical average. My absolute DISGUST with the NCAA actually lies somewhere else in the process. It's interesting you mention the seeding at 174 pounds. I was one of the loudest opponents to placing Amuchastegui down in the No. 3 seed. He'd beaten the hell out of Ruth in 2011 and was undefeated, making the case, at least to me, that he should have been the No. 1 seed. However, the seeding committee NO LONGER looks at historical data, so they weren't going to be compelled by the 2011 NCAA quarterfinal matchup. Instead the committee only had quality and quantity of wins in the season before the 2012 championship to go by, making it difficult to argue against granting Ruth the top seed. Overall, I thought the seeding was average. It's always easy to look back and point out the weight classes where the committee obviously failed to fill out a meaningful bracket outside of a top seed. For example, 149 pounds and 165 pounds. But their methodology isn't publicized so it's difficult to know which weight classes were argues illogically. We could go back and try to reconstruct which matchups were utilized to make decisions but that's a fool's errand. The system was supposed to use the parameters of coaches rank, RPI, winning percentage, head-to-head results, common opponent wins, and quality wins (wins over guys in the tournament). When they eliminated last year's results the selections were, from what I've been told, pretty easy. The part that pissed me off was that the NCAA took five hours to release the brackets. The half-hour delay was to ensure that the NCAA's Facebook account could receive more "Likes." I have two major problems with this type of fan manipulation. First the NCAA isn't dealing with a team sport, which means that they are evaluating the in-season accomplishments of INDIVIDUAL student-athletes. The wrestlers are already forced to wait three days for the announcement, so why make it worse for them by teasing out their dreams so you can pump up your online numbers? Obviously the lady who does the online work for the NCAA has no empathy for what these guys are going through and probably thought herself a delightful marketing whiz by profiting from the emotional turmoil of several hundred dedicated college athletes and their families. But she really just proved that the NCAA WILL ALWAYS PUT PROFIT FIRST. In this case it was Facebook adoration they sought on the backs of individual, hard-working wrestlers. Tomorrow it will be something more conniving, more deceptive and likely just as harmful to the student-athletes. The second of my druthers is that it was unfair that the committee knew Tuesday night but because of the almost 24-hour delay cost the at-large bids an extra day of distraction-free workouts. If you have the information then release it. Stop trying to be so cute. You're not. It's annoying, cruel, and counter-productive. Q: I am an avid wrestling fan and will watch anything and everything being broadcast on TV or Internet but I find myself wondering what would make a casual or non-wrestling fan stop on that channel to watch? The answer I usually come up with is not much. A lot of that, in my opinion, is due to a lack of charisma from the broadcast team. Now, I can't knock the wrestling credentials of a Dan Gable or whatever multiple-time AA or national champion they use. But I do question their ability to carry the broadcast. I believe that bringing in some younger more exuberant personalities during TV broadcasts would potentially bring in more fans and hold their interest. Anyone who has ever watched the Big Ten Network knows what I'm talking about. To a non-wrestler the broadcast comes off as being very dry, and somewhat biased and confusing depending on who Iowa is wrestling while Gable tries to articulate, coach, and cheer simultaneously. I think some young blood with wrestling savvy and a little more emphasis on production would do a great service to any TV broadcast. -- Donald C. Foley: I was at the NCAAs this year so I didn't catch it, but I think ESPN hired Anthony Robles for the color commentary. Some people on Twitter thought it was so-so, others enjoyed it, but most everyone agreed he just needed more time to learn the format. You're right ... Stations do need an on-air balance and I don't think that sticking with the crews from the 1980s is going to cut it much longer. The rub this season was with the production value of the student-produced matches for the Big Ten Network were comically, woefully bad (I'd link their worst performance, but the BTN had it scrubbed!). The network sent out one of those half-apologies for the production, but stopped short of guaranteeing it would never happen again, leaving many fans wanting them not to just come out with a full apology, but with a statement saying they want us to know that they WANT to do a better job. The argument for Gable and those with NCAA titles is that management doesn't know better and accolades are thought to impress common viewers. Gable might be dull to some people, or fumble some stuff, but on the opposite side, you certainly can't hire the guys from Flowrestling to do a broadcast. Television audiences need someone willing to describe the action not shout into the camera. They also need someone to deliver larger storylines for dual meets and tournaments. Jason BryantWere I to take control of a hiring at the Big Ten Network I'd grab Jason Bryant. He has a clear voice, can speak to the expert and the newcomers, and displays genuine excitement. He has history with some of the wrestlers but not the long-winded asides we're used to hearing describing wresting room matches from 1978. Those personal interactions are interesting but rarely to the broader audience. My guess is that we will see an improvement in the on-air talent and that with Robles we're already making our way. Q: How competitive do you think the South would be if there were more programs? -- @AS_myth Foley: What do we mean by "The South?" I think the schools of the ACC and SoCon count in terms of Confederacy South, but what I think you meant was in the Deep South. Good question! There used to be some Deep South schools with NCAA champions. In fact, current Iowa State head wrestling coach and Olympic gold medalist Kevin Jackson actually wrestled at LSU in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Alabama had a program until the 1980s where major wrestling supporter Steve Fisher competed. (Interesting side note: Silver's friend Jeff Levitetz sold what was for the majority of 2011 the most expensive piece of real estate in Chicago. The Internet says he kept his other place in Florida worth $12.5 million. Levitetz sells food and beauty supplies. I now want to sell food and beauty supplies. He's also a MAJOR supporter of wrestling as well creating scholarships, clubs and foundations.) There are several mores schools and wrestlers to list, but they all competed in a different age. Let's create a world in which Silver and Levitetz get a wild hair and decide to start a men's wrestling program (with a women's program for Title IX balance) at the University of Alabama. Could they recruit? Would wrestlers leave Pennsylvania to compete in the Deep South? Yes. The only proof you need comes from women's college lacrosse. The University of Florida started their women's lacrosse team in 2010. This season they were undefeated and top-ranked headed into the NCAA tournament. (They lost in the semifinals to Syracuse.) THREE SEASONS and they went from ZERO players to one of the best in the country. Forgiving that female athletes tend to be better when they first get to college and that women's lacrosse is a relatively new sport, what factors allowed them to catapult over so many other schools that had new or developing programs? LOCATION. Who in their right mind wouldn't want to go to school in Gainesville? Same goes for Tuscaloosa. Every red-blooded American male drops his jaw 11 times each commercial break when CBS pans the sidelines for a delightful scan of the SEC cheerleaders. Recruits make decisions for lots of reasons, but trust me one of the major factors that creeps into their minds is quality of life. One of the major contributing factors to "quality" can be as simple as how many cute coeds they spot on their stroll to the library. Were I to take the head coaching job at Gainesville I'd just offer my recruits a lawn chair, some Diet Coke and a brand new shar pei puppy and let them have at it. I'd have No. 1 classes until the NCAA made it illegal for me to own a puppy (and they would do it), or until Tom Ryan caught wind of my tricks and did the same on campus in Columbus. Given a budget and a coach these schools could be extraordinary, it's really just a matter of the right people making bold decisions. Given that Alabama made $75 million from their football team last year you'd almost have to assume that the time is approaching where they'll begin to offer everything from wrestling to badminton just to prove their regional sporting dominance. I've written this before but it bears repeating, the SEC (and Ivy League) are essentially governed by a very complicated trouser-pulling contest. If Alabama decides that they need to have the country's best wrestling program don't be surprised if Auburn, LSU, and Florida are right there to challenge that assertion. Q: Sean McMurray (Michigan State) is rumored to be looking at transferring to a different school for this upcoming season. As a Gopher fan it would be great to add him to our middleweights as a potential starter but I am sure he has some options. What, if anything, can you shed on Mr. McMurray and his intentions for the future? -- Kevin W. Foley: I can tell you that McMurray has been granted his full release by Michigan State and has started taking recruiting trips. There are plenty of colleges interested in his services and I'm sure he'll be a welcomed addition to any program, possibly even the Gophers. Q: Tom or Terry Brands in college and now? -- @mikesimerson Foley: Nice question! I'm going to tread lightly here, rather than be maimed by the Flannel Shirt Mafia (they exist). Tom and Terry are two of the more inspirational, if not talented, wrestlers to ever strap on the boots. In college Tom was a three-time champ and Terry a two-timer. Tom won a gold at the 1996 Olympics and Terry took the bronze at the 2000 games. Terry has two World titles, while Tom has one. Terry Brands was a two-time World championWere it not for one of the most dramatic matches in Olympic Team Trials history, Terry might very well have been a gold medalist in 1996. As it was Kendall Cross, the man who bested him in the Trials, did go on to win the gold. To me, that's compelling. I think there is a definitive answer to who got the better of who in the Iowa wrestling room, but I don't have that answer so I'll just take a guess. I'd imagine all things being equal except for size, which favored Tom, that Terry would probably have taken a few lumps. However, TODAY I'd almost guarantee Terry gets the better of Tom. Here's why. Tom is the head coach of the Iowa Hawkeyes and while I'm sure he mixes it up, it's more of Terry's responsibility to hit the mats with the guys. Tom raises cash, visits recruits, and rips off his shirt. Terry beats the hell out of everyone from Montell Marion to Derek St. John. I'd imagine that he's crisper, in better shape, and having never won that Olympic gold probably the type of competitor that's a bitch to take down. Tom might have that Big Brother Syndrome from all the years he was larger and better, but today, RIGHT THIS SECOND, I'll take Terry Brands, 3-2. No need for overtime. What about when it's time to cut a rug? Tom is definitely the better dancer.

Related Link: The MMA Outsider Podcast Archives UFC heavyweight champion Junior dos Santos did exactly what most of us expected at UFC 146, knocking Frank Mir senseless to retain his title. But the all-heavyweight main card did have some surprises and a whole lot of stoppages. Richard and John review the weekend's festivities and also look ahead to The Ultimate Fighter Live Finale on Saturday. The TUF Live card features a main event between Jake Ellenberger and Martin Kampmann. More interestingly, TUF finalists Michael Chiesa and Al Iaquinta will compete for the top spot with only one week of rest. It's an odd quirk resulting from the live format versus the pre-recorded fights from prior seasons. Should the UFC let the TUF finalists get some rest so they can be in peak form on the finale? Or should they ignore that issue and let TV promotion dictate the schedule? We go into that plenty since John didn't schedule any guests this week, but be on the lookout next week for some UFC fighter interviews.

The FILA Cadet National freestyle competition will be held this Saturday and Sunday on the campus of the University of Akron at the Louis and Freda Stile Athletics Field House. Competition on both days will start at 9:00 a.m. ET. The event will be held in conjunction with the University Nationals, while Greco-Roman competition at each age level will be held on Friday. This event will feature many of the nation's star wrestlers in the Cadet age group, as well as those that were second-year Cadets last year but have moved up to Junior competition for Fargo this year. Wrestlers with a 1995, 1996, or 1997 birth date are eligible for the FILA Cadet Nationals. Champions in this competition are eligible to compete at the FILA Cadet World Championships to be held in late August of this year in Azerbaijan. Many nationally ranked wrestlers (weight class and/or grade) populate the pre-registration field (note that there is additional on-site registration, so this list may be incomplete; in addition, weight classes are subject to change at registration). In addition, there are also wrestlers outside the rankings with excellent credentials and potential to thrive in this tournament. The following is a survey of each weight class based on the early registration period, the deadline which was 9:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 29. 42 Kilos: Notable Wrestlers: Chris Cuccolo (New York), Louie Hayes (Illinois) Commentary: Early registration lists a couple of notable wrestlers in Chris Cuccolo (New York), a 2011 Cadet National All-American in both styles, as well as 2012 Cadet folkstyle champion Louie Hayes, who was a USA Wrestling Schoolboy Triple Crown winner last year. 46 Kilos: Notable Wrestlers: Kaid Brock (Oklahoma), Isaac Jimenez (Texas), Jordan Kutler (New Jersey), Mitchell McKee (Minnesota), and Miguel Silva (Illinois) Commentary: National Prep champion Jordan Kutler (New Jersey) probably has the greatest high school credential of any wrestler in this field. However, four other wrestlers come into this tournament with a Cadet National finals appearance to their credit in one of the three styles. Jack Mueller (Texas) and Kaid Brock (Oklahoma) were runners-up in Cadet folkstyle this year, while Brock placed third in freestyle last summer; Mitchell McKee (Minnesota) was a Cadet folkstyle champion this spring, and won double titles at Schoolboy Nationals last summer; and Miguel Silva (Illinois) was a Cadet freestyle runner-up last summer. 50 Kilos: Weight Class/Grade Ranked Wrestlers: Stevan Micic (Indiana), Tommy Thorn (Minnesota) Grade Ranked Wrestler: Kyle Norstrem (Florida) Other Notables: Austin Assad (Ohio), Anthony Cefolo (New Jersey), Ethan Koan (Missouri), Lincoln Olson (Michigan), and Skyler Petry (Minnesota) Commentary: Two wrestlers in this weight class appeared in the end of season high school weight class rankings, both were Cadet National freestyle champions last summer, and each was also a medalist in the 46-kilo weight class of this tournament last year. Tommy Thorn (Minnesota) won the 46-kilo title last year, and was champion at 105 pounds in Cadet freestyle; while Stevan Micic (Indiana) was fifth here last year, and came home with the 98-pound Cadet National freestyle title during the summer. Austin Assad (Ohio) was runner-up to Micic in Fargo, while Cefolo, Norstrem, and Olson won state titles during the high school season. 54 Kilos: Weight Class/Grade Ranked Wrestlers: Dylan Lucas (New Jersey), Joey McKenna (Florida), Fredy Stroker (Pennsylvania) Weight Class Ranked Wrestlers: Zac Hall (Michigan), Jens Lantz (Wisconsin), Coy Ozias (Virginia) Grade Ranked Wrestler: Brandon James (Indiana) Other Notables: Josh Alber (Illinois), James Flint (Florida), Dalton Macri (Pennsylvania), Sebastian Pique (Illinois), and Mitch Rogaliner (Michigan) Commentary: Lead figures in this weight class would appear to be Joey McKenna (New Jersey) and Dylan Lucas (Florida). McKenna beat Lucas, 6-4, 7-2 during the pool stages of this event last year in the 50-kilo classification. Both wrestlers are extremely accomplished in both Olympic styles with multiple Fargo and FILA Cadet National placements to their credit. Other wrestlers with Cadet or FILA Cadet freestyle All-American honors on their resume in this weight class include Josh Alber (Illinois), Zac Hall (Michigan), Brandon James (Indiana), Dalton Macri (Pennsylvania), Josh Newberg (Washington), and Sebastian Pique (Illinois) 58 Kilos: Weight Class/Grade Ranked Wrestlers: Zain Retherford (Pennsylvania) Other Notables: Andrew Crone (Wisconsin), Seth Gross (Minnesota), Logan Massa (Michigan), Mark Voss (Minnesota), and Logan Ryan (Iowa) Commentary: Based on the early registration list, the strong early favorite in this weight class is 2010 Pennsylvania state champion Zain Retherford, a returning Cadet freestyle All-American, who was precluded from competing during the past high school season. Retherford was an NHSCA Junior National champion this past April, and is a three-time Super 32 Challenge placer. However, indications are that Retherford may move up a weight class to 63 kilos. Additionally in this weight are both finalists from the 112 pound weight class in last summer's Cadet National freestyle tournament, Seth Gross (Minnesota)and Andrew Crone (Wisconsin). 63 Kilos: Weight Class/Grade Ranked Wrestlers: Anthony Ashnault (New Jersey), Jack Bass (Texas), Bryce Brill (Illinois), Jack Clark (New Jersey), and Dean Heil (Ohio) Grade Ranked Wrestlers: Fox Baldwin (Florida), Tyler Berger (Oregon), Chris Garcia (Illinois), P.J. Klee (California), Grant Leeth (Missouri), Mason Manville (Minnesota), and Hayden Tuma (Idaho) Other Notables: Tanner Bailey (Oklahoma), Kevin Kinney (Missouri), Geordan Martinez (Colorado), Renaldo Rodriguez-Spencer (New York), and Cole Sladek (Minnesota) Commentary: To put things mildly, there is an absolutely crazy level of talent in this weight class. Keeping in mind that only six wrestlers earn medals, the first batch of six wrestlers not getting a medal could easily be just as good as the group that does medal. Quite frankly, the second batch of six not medalling might be nipping on their heels too. There are six returning FILA Cadet medalists in this weight class: Bryce Brill (Illinois), Jack Clark (New Jersey), Dean Heil (Ohio), P.J. Klee (California), Hayden Tuma (Idaho), and Renaldo Rodriguez-Spencer (New York). Wrestlers that have earned Cadet freestyle All-American honors in either or both of the last two summers (12 total) include Brill, Clark, Klee, Tuma, Anthony Ashnault (New Jersey), Jack Bass (Texas), Tyler Berger (Oregon), Grant Leeth (Missouri), Kevin Kinney (Missouri), Geordan Martinez (Colorado), Joseph Grable (Washington), and Cole Sladek (Minnesota). Additional notable wrestlers include FloNationals placers Fox Baldwin (Florida) and Mason Manville (Minnesota), as well as 2011 Cadet National folkstyle runner-up Tommy Forte (Indiana). Retherford may be added to this group, and indications are Bass may be competing at 69 kilos. 69 Kilos: Weight Class/Grade Ranked Wrestlers: Mark Hall (Minnesota), Dylan Milonas (New Jersey), and Bo Nickal (Texas) Grade Ranked Wrestler: Paden Bailey (Oklahoma) Other Notables: Ryan Blees (North Dakota), Colston DiBlasi (Missouri), Grant Lamont (Utah), Logan Marcicki (Michigan), and Xavier Montalvo (Illinois) Commentary: A trio of wrestlers lead the way in this weight class, including Cadet National freestyle champion Dylan Milonas (New Jersey). Others in this group are Cadet National folkstyle champion Bo Nickal (Texas), a Cadet National double All-American last year, and two-time Minnesota state champion Mark Hall (Minnesota). An additional three wrestlers were also Cadet National double All-Americans last summer -- Ryan Blees (North Dakota), Grant Lamont (Utah), and Logan Marcicki (Michigan); Lamont was also a placer in this event last year at 63 kilos. 76 Kilos: Weight Class/Grade Ranked Wrestlers: Zach Beard (Oklahoma), Chance Marsteller (Pennsylvania), Eric Morris (Pennsylvania), Chandler Rogers (Washington), and Johnny Sebastian (New Jersey) Grade Ranked Wrestler: Andrew Garcia (Michigan) Other Notables: Jordan Cooks (Michigan), Nick Corba (Ohio), Tyler McLean (Washington), Ryder Newman (Nevada), and Jake Stilling (Wisconsin) Commentary: Though two-time Cadet National freestyle champion Chance Marsteller (Pennsylvania) is going to get virtually all the limelight and ink in this weight class, there is a lot of talent here. For those living under some sort of cave, Marsteller is the No. 1 wrestler in the Class of 2014, finished the year No. 1 at 160 pounds, and is a two-time undefeated state champion. Also present in this weight class is fellow Cadet National freestyle champion Zach Beard (Oklahoma); the excellent Eric Morris (Pennsylvania), a two-time Cadet freestyle All-American and National Prep champion this past year; state champion Johnny Sebastian (New Jersey), who was also runner-up at the Beast of the East during this past season; and Chandler Rogers (Washington), who was a double All-American (third freestyle, first Greco) as a first-year Cadet last summer. The above five wrestlers are joined in the field by three other Cadet double All Americans Andrew Garcia (Michigan), Ryder Newman (Nevada), and Jake Stilling (Wisconsin). 85 Kilos: Weight Class/Grade Ranked Wrestlers: Mitch Sliga (Indiana) Grade Ranked Wrestler: Lance Benick (Minnesota) Other Notables: Troy Hembury (Pennsylvania), Ray O'Donnell (Pennsylvania), Ricky Robertson (Illinois), and Parker Vonegidy (North Carolina) Commentary: Clearly leading the way here is two-time Cadet National double All-American Mitch Sliga (Indiana). He was also fifth in this weight class last year at the FILA Cadet level, and had a high school state title this past year to go with two previous third-place finishes. Joining Sliga as a Cadet National freestyle champion in this weight class is Ricky Robertson (Illinois), who also finished second to Morris in Cadet Greco-Roman last summer. Just a first-year Cadet, Lance Benick (Minnesota) already has a folkstyle national title to his credit. Other returning Cadet All-Americans include double medalists Ray O'Donnell (Pennsylvania), a champion in Greco-Roman, and Troy Hembury (Pennsylvania); while Parker Vonegidy (North Carolina) was runner-up to Robertson in freestyle. 100 Kilos: Notable Wrestler: Josh Lehner (Ohio) Commentary: Josh Lehner (Ohio) is the favorite among the early registrants. During the past scholastic season, he was a Walsh Ironman placer and won a state title with all four of his victories in Columbus coming by technical fall. He was also third in Cadet Greco-Roman last summer. 125 Kilos: Weight Class/Grade Ranked Wrestlers: Michael Johnson Jr. (Pennsylvania) Weight Class Ranked Wrestler: Nathan Butler (Kansas) Other Notable: Wesley Bernard (Indiana) Commentary: Leading the way is Cadet National double All-American Michael Johnson Jr. (Pennsylvania), who was a National Prep runner-up during his freshman season of high school. Also present in this weight class is two-time state champion Nathan Butler (Kansas), who was third in Junior folkstyle this spring and a Cadet Greco-Roman third place finisher last summer; as well as Cadet National double All-American Wesley Bernard (Indiana). Note: InterMat will provide coverage of the freestyle tournament throughout the weekend, including a recap after the event's completion on Sunday evening as well as select updates on Twitter (@JLowe_intermat) throughout the competition.

One of the finest wrestlers to ever come from New Jersey will return to his home state next season. Princeton wrestling head coach Chris Ayres announced that two-time NCAA champion Joe Dubuque will serve as assistant coach for the rising Tiger program. Joe Dubuque was a two-time NCAA championDubuque, the 2005 and 2006 NCAA champion (125) has five years of experience as an assistant coach, including two with his alma mater, Indiana. Prior to that, he spent three years as an assistant with Hofstra. “Hiring Joe is a huge step for our program,” Ayres said. ”The last six years I have preached that we need to build the strongest organizational foundation in order to achieve sustained success in the long run. Upgrading the second position through an endowment solidifies that foundation. We are now on a more even playing field with our competitors and have the opportunity to see just how good we can become. Getting someone with the credentials and experience of Joe Dubuque is just the icing on the cake.” While wrestling at Indiana, Dubuque posted an overall record of 114-18, including a 69-6 dual mark and a 19-6 Big Ten record in four years. "I want to thank Chris Ayres for giving me the opportunity to come back to New Jersey and help bring Princeton wrestling to a new level," Dubuque said. "I am excited to be a part of the Tiger tradition." Dubuque, a native of Bloomfield, New Jersey, was a scholastic national champion as a senior and a two-time state champion at Glenn Ridge High School. He posted a 23-5 overall record and was ranked 12th as a freshman, but he missed the Big 10 Championships due to an injury. A year later Dubuque qualified for his first NCAA appearance with a fourth-place finish at the Big Ten Championships and then went on to earn All-America honors with an eighth-place showing at the NCAA Championships. He finished the year with a 34-9 overall record, a 21-2 dual mark and captured the 125-pound title at the Northern Iowa Open. In 2004-05 Dubuque placed third in the Big Ten Championships and then defeated three ranked opponents on his march to claim the 125-pound title at the national championships. He became the first Hoosier grappler to claim a national championship since Brian Dolph captured the 150-pound title in 1990. He finished the year with a 29-3 overall record, an 18-1 slate in duals, a 6-1 mark in the Big Ten and a 12-2 mark against ranked opponents. As a senior during the 2005-06 season he recorded an overall mark of 28-1, including a 7-1 record against ranked opponents; he defeated three ranked foes at the NCAAs en route to the 125-pound crown. Dubuque became just the second Hoosier in Indiana history to capture two national titles and the first Hoosier to register back-to-back NCAA crowns. He helped lead Indiana to an 18th-place finish at the 2006 NCAA Championships. Dubuque earned a bachelor’s degree in recreation sports management from Indiana. He has a wife, Jaime, and a son Chase. “We needed to raise quite a bit of funds during the past year and over 30 alumni contributed significant funds to the coaching endowment,” Ayres said. “I thank everyone who contributed and plan to recognize them more formally once the books are closed on this effort, but a special thanks must go to Rich Tavoso ‘87 and Mike Novogratz ‘87. Rich and Mike were the first to understand the need to upgrade the position and really launched this effort with an incredible fund matching plan that pulled in a lot of support from other alumni. Without their initial “push” we wouldn’t be where we are today. “Nothing defines the Princeton Wrestling program more than the passion and commitment of our alumni and I am so thankful they were able to respond to our call for support once again,” Ayres added.

Nate Hansen