InterMat Staff

Pat Pecora

Kevin Bonilla

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. -- Following a record season which included an ACC Championship and a 15th-place finish at the NCAA Championships, Virginia wrestling head coach Steve Garland has been named the ACC Coach of the Year, as voted upon by the conference coaches and announced by the conference office Friday. Garland is the first Virginia wrestling coach to earn the honor, which the conference began awarding in 1986. "This is a great honor, especially because it is voted on by my peers," Garland said. "Anytime you earn an honor like this which is determined by your coaching peers, it is humbling, especially since several have coached in this league for many years and coached against me when I was a student-athlete here. To earn this high of an honor is a great honor for me, my family and our school." Garland, a former Virginia All-American who just completed his fourth season as the Cavaliers' head coach, led UVa to a 16-6 dual match record during the regular season and the second-most dual wins in a season at UVa. The Cavaliers were ranked nationally among the Top 25 for the entire season while earning a program-best ranking of No. 16 at one point. As it has done in recent years, Virginia peaked in postseason play. Virginia won its first ACC Championship since 1977, as Chris Henrich and Mike Salopek captured ACC titles at 174 and 184 pounds, respectively. The Cavaliers qualified a school-record eight wrestlers to the NCAA Championships, where UVa racked up 34 team points in taking 15th place -- Virginia's second-best finish at NCAAs. The 1957 team, with a 10th-place finish, is the only UVa team to finish higher. Henrich finished third at 174 pounds to become the first two-time All-American in Virginia wrestling history. Virginia also had five wrestlers named to the All-ACC team by virtue of their top-two finishes at the conference championships - Ross Gitomer (125), Matt Snyder (133), Shawn Harris (149), Henrich (174) and Salopek (184).

Former Husker national champion Tolly Thompson will be inducted into the 2010 class of the Glen Brand Wrestling Hall of Fame on Saturday, April 17 at 1 p.m. at the Dan Gable International Wrestling Institute and Museum in Waterloo, Iowa. Thompson is one of six wrestlers in this year’s class. The Glen Brand Wrestling Hall of Fame was established in 2002 to honor the people who have made an impact on the sport on a national level, or who have done extraordinary work in the state of Iowa. The hall recognizes native-born Iowans, and those who achieved their fame while wrestling or coaching for an Iowa college. Thompson is a native of Janesville, Iowa and is one of Nebraska wrestling’s most decorated performers, winning the 1995 national championship in the Heavyweight division. It was the first of three All-America honors for Thompson, who also won a trio of conference titles and set Husker school records for career victories (157) and career falls (72). He continued his wrestling career on the international level and won three U.S. Open freestyle titles and was a member of two World teams, earning a bronze medal at the 2005 World Championships. Prior to Nebraska, Thompson was a two-time state runner-up for Janesville (Iowa). The hall is named after Glen Brand, an NCAA champion for Iowa State in 1948, who won an Olympic gold medal the same year, at 174 pounds in London. He graduated with a degree in civil engineering and by 1983 he owned two companies in Omaha – Brand Hydraulics and Brand Fluid Power. The companies had over 50 distributors around the world. He attended every hall of fame inductions, and passed away on Nov. 15, 2008, in Omaha, at the age of 85. “This is a chance to honor six worthy inductees and a chance to honor Glen Brand,” said executive director Kyle Klingman. “Brand continues to influence wrestling through his remarkable contributions.” Thompson will be providing a free youth clinic in the Dan Gable Teaching Center located inside the Museum. The clinic will take place at 11 a.m. on Saturday, April 17 prior to the induction ceremony. Coaches and parents are welcome to attend. The Kids Clinic is limited to the first 25 wrestlers who sign up. For more information or to sign up, contact Kent Sesker at (319) 233-0745 or kent@wrestlingmuseum.org.

NEWTON, Iowa -- Minnesota Wrestling senior, and new national champion Jayson Ness has been bestowed the greatest honor in college wrestling, as the winner of the Dan Hodge Trophy, announced today (Mar. 26) by Wrestling Insider News Magazine (W.I.N.). The honors continue to pour in for the Bloomington, Minn. native, who was also named Big Ten Wrestler of the Year and the Most Outstanding Wrestler of the National Tournament, by the National Wrestling Coaches Association. Ness completed his first perfect season at 31-0, winning his first National Title the 2010 NCAA Championships. He also won his second Big Ten title just two weeks prior at the Big Ten Championships. The Dan Hodge Trophy, considered the Heisman Trophy for amateur wrestling, has been presented to the nation's best wrestler since 1995. Created by W.I.N. founder Mike Chapman, the award is named after the former three-time University of Oklahoma national champion (1955-57) who never allowed a takedown in his college career. He also pinned 36 of his 46 victims. Criteria for the award includes a wrestler's record, number of pins, dominance on the mat, past credentials, quality of competition, sportsmanship/citizenship and heart. "Winning this award is an amazing feeling as there were many great wrestlers competing this year," Ness said. "I feel extremely honored to receive this prestigious award." Ness edged out Iowa State's Jake Varner and Iowa's Jay Borschel, champs at 197 and 174 respectively. Each also capped off undefeated seasons, but Ness earned the honor on the strength of his number of pins. Finishing with one of the best seasons in school history, Ness claimed 19 of his victory's by fall, nearly doubling Varner and Borschel. Awarded annually since 1995, Ness becomes the 14th different Hodge Trophy winner and the first from Minnesota. Cael Sanderson (2000-02) is the only three-time winner, and Ben Askren (2006-07) won the award twice. As Golden Gopher Wrestling honors it's long and great tradition with it's centennial this season, Ness now stands alone as the most decorated wrestler in program history. As a four-time All-American, two-time Big Ten champion and National Champion, he rests alongside the Gopher greats. As the Gophers seventh Big Ten Wrestler of the Year, just the fifth Big Ten Freshman of the Year (2007), only the second Outstanding Wrestler of the Tournament, and first in the modern era, and now the only Hodge Trophy winner, he has set himself apart. "Jayson epitomizes everything a coach could ask for from an athlete," head coach J Robinson said. "His dedication to wrestling and academics sets the bar for what every student-athlete should strive for. There are athletes, who as a coach, you hope will affect their teammates in a positive way - Jayson has been that true leader both on and off the mat. Winning the Hodge Trophy caps off every wrestler's dream, to be the best in the country. We could not be more proud to have Jayson representing the University of Minnesota and know he will continue to be the great role model that his strong faith in God has led him to be." One could have seen early that it would be a record setting season for Ness, as he opened the year with a school-record tying eight straight falls. His first decision was still dominant, as it came by way of a shutout, before he ripped off five straight more falls on his way to a Southern Scuffle title, totaling 13 pins with a 16-0 record as the calendar turned. After opening the season at No. 2, he assumed the No. 1 ranking in the first week of February and never let it go. His first two matches at No. 1 were wins by fall, spending less than six total minutes on the mat. He went perfect through the Big Ten and NCAA tournament for his 31-0 record, just the sixth tally without a blemish in school history, while ending his career on a 33-match winning streak. He was completely dominant through his run, with just 14 matches that saw the second period, and only 11 that saw the third. If he wasn't pinning his opponents, he won each match by at least a three-point margin, until a one-point victory in the national quarterfinals. The team captain ranks third all-time with 148 career wins, and has crushed the career pins record as his 73 are better than 20 ahead of second place. He lost just two Big Ten matches in his career, and had 30+ wins all four seasons, including 40 as a freshman. He is one of just two Gophers in program history to average better than a third place finish over four years a the NCAA Championships (Konrad, 2004-07), and is the first four-time All-American to go out with his first National Championship. Already a University of Minnesota graduate, Ness has begun graduate school for his Masters of Education, and is currently student teaching in the Twin Cities.

Eric Keller

Illinois Matmen has partnered with IL/USA Wrestling and the IKWF to bring you live video coverage of the 14th Annual Wrestling USA/Cliff Keen Dream Team Wrestling Classic being held at Elmhurst College on April 10 at 7:00 p.m. This event pits a team of the top senior wrestlers from around the country up against a team of all-stars from Illinois. This is the first time that Illinois has been chosen to take on the USA Dream Team. For only $5.99 you get to watch every match live with commentary and post-match wrestler interviews. JD Oliva of Video Infinity will run the camera, Kevin and Danny Burk will provide the commentary, and Mike Bare will control the sound and the live feed. You can expect a professional broadcast from start to finish. In order to view the live stream, you will need to purchase a ticket in advance. Don't wait until the last minute. Get your ticket today! It's simple, quick, and secure. Don't miss this opportunity to watch many of the nation's top ranked wrestlers in the comfort of your own home. In fact, this dual will feature seven No. 1-ranked wrestlers, three No. 2-ranked wrestlers, and two No. 3-ranked wrestlers according to the latest InterMat poll. Expect to see many future NCAA All-Americans and champions on the mat on April 10. We suggest that you attend in person, but if you can't, be sure to tune into our live webcast. Some of the proceeds from this webcast will benefit Illinois Matmen, so if you enjoy our coverage, be sure to get a ticket today. Team USA vs. Team Illinois 112 No. 5 Blake Thomas (Brentwood, TN) vs. Miko Villanueva (Dundee Crown) 119 No. 1 Ryak Finch (Safford, AZ) vs. Logan Arlis (Batavia) 125 No. 3 @130 Devin Carter (Christianburg, VA) vs. TBD 130 No. 1 Frank Cagnina (Queen of Peach, NJ) vs. No. 10 Keith Surber (O'Fallon) 135 No. 2 Ryan Nieman (Bullock Creek, MI) vs. No. 8 Chris Dardanes (Oak Park River Forest) 140 No. 2 @145 Chris Villalonga (Blair Academy, NJ) vs. No. 4 Nick Dardanes (Oak Park River Forest) 145 No. 1 Andrew Alton (Central Mountain, PA) vs. Demetrios Mitchell (Hersey) 152 No. 1 Dylan Alton (Central Mountain, PA) vs. Joey Moorhouse (Marengo) 160 No. 1 Marshall Peppelman (Central Dauphin, PA) vs. Joe Strocchia (Hinsdale Central) 171 No. 2 Derek Garcia (Sedro-Wolley, WA) vs. Andy Spangler (Neuqua Valley) 189 No. 1 Mike Evans (Blair Academy, NJ) vs. TBD 215 No. 3 Trevor Rupp (Pocatello, ID) vs. Matt Dwyer (Hononegah) 285 No. 1 Michael McMullen (Wyoming Seminary, PA) vs. Andrew Ellington (Edwardsville) Dream Team Coach: Rex Peckinpaugh (New Castle, IN)

On March 24, 2010, the Eastern Wrestling League announced that the University of Pittsburgh’s Rande Stottlemyer has been named EWL coach of the year for 2010, Edinboro University’s Jarrod King has been selected as EWL wrestler of the year, and the University of Pittsburgh’s Anthony Zanetta is the EWL freshman wrestler of the year. This season the veteran head wrestling coach Stottlemyer led his Panthers to a program record 17 dual meet wins, going 17-1-1 for the season, and being ranked the 17th best dual meet team in the nation. Moreover, Pittsburgh won the 2010 EWL dual meet championship, with dual meet victories over all six of its intra-league opponents. In addition, under Coach Rande Stottlemyer’s guidance, the University of Pittsburgh grabbed 12th place at the powerful Midlands Tournament (held late December 2009) and finished a strong second at the early March EWL Championships, held at West Virginia University. The Panthers qualified six grapplers for the 2010 NCAA Division I Wrestling Tournament, held March 18-20, in Omaha, Nebraska, and finished 26th in that 77-team event. At the NCAA’s Pitt sophomore Tyler Nauman gained fifth place at 141 pounds for an All-American finish. The EWL’s Wrestler of the Year, Jarrod King, from Connellsville, Pennsylvania, is a graduate student at Edinboro University. Competing at 165 pounds, Mr. King had an excellent 2010 season, winning the Eastern Michigan Open, the Oklahoma Gold tournament, the PSAC title, the Reno Invitational, and the Eastern Wrestling League Championships. In addition, King placed third at the Southern Scuffle, stormed through the dual meet season undefeated, and finished a strong third at the 2010 NCAA Tournament. Coached by Tim Flynn, King completed the 2010 season with a won/lost record of 39-2. The EWL’s Freshman of the Year is Anthony Zanetta, from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (Keystone Oaks High School), who competes at 125 pounds for the University of Pittsburgh. This season Mr. Zanetta placed fifth at the Penn State Open, grabbed eighth at the powerful Midlands, and won the EWL Tournament, which qualified him to compete in the NCAA’s. At the 2010 NCAA Tournament, Zanetta won one of three bouts, finishing the 2010 campaign with a solid record of 34-10.

The Dan Gable International Wrestling Institute and Museum will host a special autograph signing with Dan Gable on Saturday, April 3 from 2-4 p.m. The signing will take place during USA Wrestling's Folkstyle Nationals held at the UNI Dome in Cedar Falls. This is USA Wrestling's final event of the folkstyle season, taking place on April 1-3 at the UNI Dome. It is also the first stage of the Triple Crown, which is made up of the Folkstyle Nationals, and the Freestyle and Greco-Roman Nationals. Gable is arguably the greatest athlete and coach ever. In 1972 won a gold medal at the Munich Olympics without surrendering a point. As the head coach at the University of Iowa he led the Hawkeyes to 15 NCAA team titles in 21 years, compiling a 355-21-5 dual meet record. The UNI Dome has been an excellent facility for wrestling competitions, with the 2010 event taking place on 25 mats. The UNI Dome was also where Dan Gable won his final NCAA tournament as the head coach of the Iowa Hawkeyes in 1997, setting the record for most points scored at 170. The Dan Gable International Wrestling Institute and Museum is located at 303 Jefferson St. in Waterloo. All are welcome to attend this special autograph signing.

Craig Brester

Dan Vallimont

Cam Simaz

We head the TDR Brute adidas studios back in to the barn for a week after all the excitement that is the National Championships. The fan fest was nuts. Loads of things for people tio do and already looking forward to Philly next year. Thank you to all the listeners and viewers who stopped me, called me, texted me and o0r shook our hands. Good to see and meet you all. This week we take a look back with our guests: 9:00 Kevin Jackson- ISU Head Coach. After his first NCAA Championship we'll get his thoughts on preping his athletes, his 2 champions and the attack of the next season. We'll talk Varner and Zabriski 9:20 Barry Davis- Wisconsin Head Coach- Coach of the Year. To go through all Barry has gone through this year and have his team buck up and do what they did was incredible. That's what wrestling is to me. We'll talk about Howe. 9:40 Jay Weiss- Harvard's Head Coach joins us and will discuss J.P. O'Conner's unlikley role as champion. Seems like this is a kid who is destined to wear crowns. What was the Jesse Jantzen effect? 10:00 Brent Metcalf- Iowa 149 pound NCAA Champ. As close to perfect as you can get. He had to give away a year due the pettyness of administrators at his previous school but still performed his level best. Hard Charging through the year, redemption after a Big 10 loss to rival Palmer, Champion at the NCAA's. 10:10 Jayson Ness- Minnasota 133 pound NCAA Champ. After close years, heartbreaking finishes, standout performances, Ness was able to put it all together this year. It wasn't the stars aligning, it wasn't the tea leaves in the bottom of a cup. It was hard work. Plain and simple. 10:20 Matt McDonough- Iowa 125 pound NCAA Champ. A legacy at Iowa, this kid just keeps getting better and surprizing even the most seasoned fan. he's working toward his own records his own certain kind of legacy. 10:35 Kyle Dake- Cornell 141 pound NCAA Champ. The Big Red wrestling team finished in second place at the NCAA tournament on Saturday evening. Cornell had a total of four All-Americans with Mack Lewnes taking second, Cam Simaz finishing third and Troy Nickerson taking fourth to join Dake. The Big Red’s second-place team placing is the highest in school history at the NCAA tournament. 10:45 J.P. O'Conner- Harvard 157 pound Champ. J. P. has been named EIWA Wrestler of the Year, after his championship performance at the NCAA Championships. O'Connor went undefeated at 157 pounds this season, finishing with a record of 35-0. O'Connor is the third NCAA wrestling champion in Harvard history, and the third three-time All-American. He placed fifth in 2007 and sixth in 2008, both times at 149 pounds. Previous Harvard champions were John Harkness in 1938 and Jesse Jantzen in 2004. Wrestling fans- Please note that Episode 50 of TDR TV is now available on all the top web sites and cable systems around the country. TDR every week! It's appointment Radio and TV! Join us at Takedownradio.com. America's Wrestling Radio Talk Show airs on Supertalk 1570 in Michigan, AM 1460 KXNO in Iowa and on a radio station near you or on line at many of our broadcast partners around the world including Livesportsvideo.com. TDR "the Radio Program" airs 9 AM to 11 AM CST every Saturday morning we look forward to having you listen. Thanks for watching and listening!

WAVERLY, Iowa -- Wartburg College Director of Athletics Rick Willis has announced that assistant wrestling coach Eric Keller has been promoted to co-head coach of the Knights’ program. "We are excited to be able to expand Eric’s role in the wrestling program," Willis said."This decision was made in recognition of the confidence the college, our team, and head coach Jim Miller has in him. It’s a win-win situation all the way around." Miller’s role will not be diminished in any way. As a matter of fact, he stated that"this is the most motivated I’ve felt in a number of years after a national tournament." "I am not ready to get out yet, and I am very excited about the future of our program," Miller said."I also plan to remain at Wartburg until I decide to retire." Keller, the 2008-09 National Wrestling Coaches Association's Division III Assistant Coach of the Year, returned to the program in 2006-07 as the associate head coach and has been part of four Iowa Conference championships, two NWCA Division III National Duals titles and two NCAA Division III national team championships. He was an assistant for head coach Jim Miller's teams from 2000-05 as well, being part of five consecutive Iowa Conference championships and NCAA Division III national championships in 2003 and 2004. Leading North Central College of Naperville, Ill.'s program prior to returning to Waverly, he helped guide a turnaround for the Cardinals as they registered their best collegiate wrestling season to date, earning three All-Americans, sporting a perfect dual meet record. Keller was named the National Wrestling Coaches Association's Rookie Coach of the Year at the 2006 national tournament. Keller completed his undergraduate and graduate degrees at UNI. He earned recognition as an NCAA All-American and Academic All-American for the Panthers and served as team captain in 1998-99. He was also a two-time Iowa high school state champion, compiling a 161-10-1 record at Indianola. "I am extremely honored and excited to take on this role," Keller said."Wartburg College, the wrestling program, and the community have been a part of my family for the past 10 years. This has been my home since the first time I stepped on campus. "I can’t express how excited I am to have the opportunity to continue to coach side by side with Coach Miller," he added."He has been my mentor since I began coaching and there is no one I would rather work with. Being able to continue to help our student athletes reach their goals and dreams both on and off the mat is my passion and means the world to me."

Link: High School Weight Class Rankings Even though the Pennsylvania team fell to defeat this past Saturday night in the Dapper Dan Wrestling Classic, the event in and of itself still is a testament to the strength of wrestling in the Keystone State. Keep in mind that it took a team of wrestlers whom are among the country�s elite to knock off a squad of Pennsylvania seniors. The Dapper Dan squad consisted of three wrestlers ranked first in the nation -- Ryak Finch (119) from Safford, AZ; Logan Stieber (125) from Monroeville, OH; and Michael Evans (189) from Blair Academy, NJ. Another pair of wrestlers is ranked second in their weight classes -- Ryen Nieman (135) from Bullock Creek, MI and Chris Villalonga (145) from Blair Academy, NJ. Three other wrestlers from the Dapper Dan squad are ranked third nationally -- Nick Sulzer (160) from St. Edward, OH; Trevor Rupp (215) from Pocatello, ID; and Bobby Telford (285) from St. Mark's, DE. Among the other five wrestlers -- two are ranked fourth, one is fifth, another sixth, and the lowest ranked member of the USA team was ranked eighth. Please note that all wrestlers were ranked -- and/or evaluated for ranking -- in the weight class at which they competed during their respective state-level tournaments. Six seniors from Pennsylvania are ranked first in the country at this time, including five consecutive wrestlers in the middleweights -- Josh Dziewa (135) from Council Rock South; Josh Kindig (140) from Blue Mountain; Andrew (145) and Dylan (152) Alton from Central Mountain; and Marshall Peppelman (160) from Central Dauphin. From those five weight classes alone, 13 Pennsylvania wrestlers are ranked among the top 20 in their weight class. In all, 39 wrestlers from Pennsylvania high schools find themselves ranked. Five of the No. 1-ranked wrestlers compete at schools in New Jersey and Ohio. Two of those wrestlers -- Evans and Evan Silver (112) compete for Blair Academy, NJ, while Frank Cagnina (130) from Queen of Peace is the other Garden State grappler at the top of the rankings Two Monroeville wrestlers -- Logan Stieber and Chris Phillips (171) -- are ranked No. 1 one in the country from Ohio. These two states are next in the ranking count; New Jersey with 31, and Ohio with 27. Rounding out the top-ranked wrestlers are Cody Phillips (103) from Union County, IN; Ryak Finch; and Kyle Cowan (215) from Cascia, OK. Counting the wrestlers ranked by state: 39: Pennsylvania 31: New Jersey 27: Ohio 16: Iowa 15: California 14: Illinois 13: New York 11: Oklahoma 10: Minnesota 9: Michigan, Virginia, Wisconsin 8: Missouri 6: Indiana, Washington 5: Colorado, Delaware, Florida, South Dakota 4: Idaho, Kansas 3: Arizona, Nebraska, North Dakota, Tennessee, Texas 2: Maryland, Oregon, Utah 1: Alabama, Alaska, Hawaii, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, Wyoming

Rob Koll

Harvard senior J. P. O'Connor has been named EIWA Wrestler of the Year, following his championship performance last weekend at the NCAA Championships in Omaha, Neb. O'Connor was undefeated at 157 pounds this season, finishing with a record of 35-0. O'Connor is the third NCAA wrestling champion in Harvard history, and the third three-time All-Amercan. He placed fifth in 2007 and sixth in 2008, both times at 149 pounds. Previous Harvard champions were John Harkness in 1938 and Jesse Jantzen in 2004. After defeating Cal Poly's Chase Pami 6-4 in the championship final, O'Connor comment in his post-match press conference. “I just had the fire and determination to win it this year. I truly believed that I could win it during my sophomore and junior years, but I just didn't turn out that way, which was disappointing. I tried to turn it into a positive and thought about it every day.”

ITHACA, N.Y. -- Cornell wrestling’s Kyle Dake has been named the EIWA Freshman of the Year it was announced on Monday night. Dake won the NCAA title at 141 pounds while helping the Big Red to a program-best second place team finish. The Cornell rookie became the first true freshman to win a national title in five years. Dake finishes his impressive rookie campaign with a 34-2 record including ending his season on a 24-match win streak. The 141 pounder had a perfect mark after the winter holidays and won the title at the Southern Scuffle. He followed by going 5-0 at the National Duals where he defeated four nationally ranked wrestlers including then No. 1 ranked Reece Humphrey (Ohio State), 8-4. Dake was 12-0 in team duals and was named first-team All-Ivy and Ivy League Rookie of the Year. Dake if the fourth Cornell wrestler in the last five years to win the EIWA Freshman of the Year award and follows Troy Nickerson (2006), Mack Lewnes (2008) and Cam Simaz (2009). Harvard’s JP O’Connor was named the EIWA Wrestler of the Year after winning the NCAA title at 157 pounds. A six-time letter winner at Lansing HS, Dake was a two-time New York state champion and three-time finalist. He is majoring in developmental sociology in Cornell’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.

After a six match winning streak in the undercard dual of the Dapper Dan Wrestling Classic, the WPIAL had lost matches two of the last three years. Facing wrestlers from New York State, they looked to get back on the winning side of the ledger -- against a state team it had defeated 27-24 in 2005. Additionally, the teams also met in 1980 -- when a team from the Empire State scored a 27-14 victory. Despite only winning six of thirteen contested matches, the outcome was more like the one from 30 years ago, as opposed to that from five years ago. New York used wins from a pair of nationally ranked upper-weights to secure a 26-21 victory after being down 21-17 heading into competition at 215 pounds. Fourth-ranked Kyle Colling (Pioneer, NY) -- headed to Oklahoma in the fall -- dominated Brandon Fedorka (Hopewell) with a 19-3 technical fall in 4:15. Colling had five takedowns and four turns in the match, which had the traditional "undercard" format of two periods with a length of 2-1/2 minutes both starting in the neutral position. Lance Moore (Johnson City, NY) -- ranked 14th nationally, and a state champion this year -- faced Adam Lazenga (Bethel Park) in the dual meet's final match at 285 pounds. It was a homecoming of sorts, as Moore had placed the previous two years in the small-school Class AA Pennsylvania State Wrestling Tournament while competing at Lackawanna Trail. Despite finishing third in the big-school state tournament, Lazenga was never truly in the match, as Moore took a 4-1 lead in the first period with two takedowns. In the second period, Moore would score three more takedowns -- with a three-point near fall off the last takedown -- to cement a 13-4 major decision and dual meet victory. "It felt good," stated Moore when asked about earning a match-sealing dual meet victory. "This match serves as a great catalyst heading into NHSCA Senior Nationals (to be held this coming week)." The Binghampton University signee also is aware of the emergence of his Bearcat program, which had a pair of All-Americans this year after coming back from the brink of elimination. "This is a part of why I chose to go to BU. I want to be a part of this. With the young talent present, and coming in, we're going to be competitive in the years to come." Prior to the last two matches, the WPIAL had rallied from behind with a 5-1 run in six consecutive matches decided by two points or less. After 15th ranked Cody Ruggirello (Valley Central) scored a pin in 3:52 against Colton Blumer (West Greene) at 135 pounds to give New York a 14-6 lead through five matches, the response started with a 10-8 victory from Sam Lombardo (Canon-McMillan) over CJ Howard (Pittsford, NY) at 140 pounds. Next two wrestle was the match at 145 pounds, where state placer Andy Candiello (North Allegheny) scored the upset of the evening with a 4-3 victory over two-time state champion Andy Rodriguez (Central Islip, NY) in the tiebreaker. Candiello secured his lone takedown in the first period effectively countering a Rodriguez attack, finishing on top of a scramble situation. Even though Rodriguez did get a takedown in the second period to force the overtime, Candiello was very effective in fending off the majority of attacks by his opponent. Regulation ended tied at 3-3, the sudden victory was scoreless, which led to a (ultimate) tiebreaker period. Candiello earned the choice by scoring first, and chose the down position. Within the first ten seconds, he scored the escape and a 4-3 victory -- one that earned him Outstanding Wrestler honors for the WPIAL squad. "It feels great to beat a two-time state champ," commented Candiello. "It's a testament to how strong wrestling is in the WPIAL (and Pennsylvania). The whole match came down to who wanted it more, the scrambles and the tiebreak period reflected that." State champion Guiseppi Lanzi (Amsterdam, NY) was able to stem the tide with a 2-1 victory over Zach Shannon (Kiski Area). Lanzi -- undefeated during the 2009-10 season -- used a beautiful throw during the second period to score the go ahead points. Troy Reaghard (West Allegheny) and Tyler Wilps (Chartiers Valley) won consecutive 2-1 victories for the WPIAL at 160 and 171 pounds respectively. Both wrestlers scored go-ahead takedowns in the second period. Finally, Eric Shaffer (Greater Latrobe) rallied from a 4-2 deficit after one period against Brandon Contreras (Penfield) to score a 6-5 victory at 189 pounds. After an initial second period takedown by Shaffer, and subsequent Contreras escape, the Greater Latrobe wrestler scored the winning takedown right at the horn to move the Fitzgerald Fieldhouse crowd to their feet. In between an opening match comeback victory for Ryan Bohince (Penn-Trafford), 9-7, at 112 pounds, and the pin by Ruggirello, it was three convincing wins for wrestlers that saw the top of the podium during their careers. State champion Damon McQueen (Huntington, NY) defeated Alex Dunaway (McGuffey), 6-1, at 119 pounds. Though the score was not more dominant, McQueen had to have ridden Dunaway for at least three minutes. Three-time state champion Nick Arujau (Syosset, NY) -- also ranked 5th nationally - dominated Carson Brooks (Fox Chapel) with impressive mat wrestling in a 19-0 technical fall at the 3:36 mark in the 125 pound match. A top three finisher all four years in high school, and state champion as a freshman, Frank Martellotti (Shady Side Academy) dominated Taylor Laraia (Newburgh Free Academy, NY) in scoring a 10-3 victory at 130 pounds. Ruggirello earned Outstanding Wrestler honors for the New York squad with his second period pin from an arm-bar, though it came from the opposite side of how he normally likes to finish the move. "Earning OW honors feels great," said Ruggirello. "It's a testament to the hard work I've put in since falling short in the state final (2-1 to Andrew Lenzi). This sets me up well as I head into the next stages of my career." New York 26, WPIAL 21 112: Ryan Bohince (Penn-Trafford) dec. Brandon Ling (Penfield, NY) 9-7 119: Damon McQueen (Huntington, NY) dec. Alex Dunaway (McGuffey) 6-1 125: Nick Arujau (Syosset, NY) technical fall Carson Brooks (Fox Chapel) 19-0, 3:36 130: Frank Martellotti (Shady Side Academy) dec. Taylor Laraia (Newburgh Free Academy, NY) 10-3 135: Cody Ruggirello (Valley Central, NY) pin Colton Blumer (West Greene) 3:52 140: Sam Lombardo (Canon-McMillan) dec. CJ Howard (Pittsford, NY) 10-8 145: Andy Candiello (North Allegheny) dec. Andy Rodriguez (Central Islip, NY) 4-3, tb 152: Giuseppi Lanzi (Amsterdam, NY) dec. Zach Shannon (Kiski Area) 2-1 160: Troy Reaghard (West Allegheny) dec. Ryan Fox (Huntington, NY) 2-1 171: Tyler Wilps (Chartiers Valley) dec. Joe Glennon (Lansing, NY) 2-1 189: Eric Shaffer (Greater Latrobe) dec. Brandon Contreras (Penfield, NY) 6-5 215: Kyle Colling (Pioneer, NY) technical fall Brandon Fedorka (Hopewell) 19-3, 4:15 285: Lance Moore (Johnson City, NY) major decision Adam Lazenga (Bethel Park) 13-4 Outstanding Wrestlers: New York: Cody Ruggirello, Valley Central, 135 pounds WPIAL: Andy Candiello, North Allegheny, 145 pounds

Consider all the MMA (mixed martial arts) stars who once were college wrestlers. For example, among the former NCAA Division I All-Americans featured at the UFC 109 Relentless event: Randy Couture, Mark Coleman, Chael Sonnen, and Phil Davis. Long before the UFC and other MMA promotions, there was a similar pipeline of college wrestling champs who found fame and fortune in the professional wrestling ring. With the recent deaths of former pro wrestlers Jack Brisco and Steve "Dr. Death" Williams -- both NCAA All-Americans -- it seems appropriate to honor some of the collegiate mat greats from 30-90 years ago who made a name for themselves in pro wrestling in the past. (Note: The photos accompanying this article are of the wrestlers as college wrestlers. Until the mid-1960s, many college wrestling programs competed shirtless; this was before today's singlets.) George Bollas, Ohio State Before supersized NCAA heavyweight champs such as Chris Taylor of Iowa State in the early 1970s, and North Carolina State's Tab Thacker in the mid 1980s, there was George Bollas, who won the 1946 NCAA heavyweight title tipping the scales at 325 lbs. College credentials: Bollas won two Big Ten heavyweight titles (1945 and 1946), then earned the 1946 NCAA heavyweight title by pinning Morris Chitwood of Indiana University at 14:11 in the title match, becoming the Buckeyes' second heavyweight champ (along with George Downes in 1940, and Tommy Rowlands in this decade). Pro wrestling resume: Bollas' two-decade career reportedly started while still at Ohio State (Bollas left the school in 1946 before graduating). Sometimes competed as the Zebra Kid, complete with zebra-striped costume. Off the mat: Bollas played football for the Buckeyes, and is in the Ohio State Athletic Hall of Fame. Jack Brisco, Oklahoma State Jack Brisco (Photo/1964 Redskin)Born Freddie Joe Brisco in Blackwell, Oklahoma -- a true hotbed for wrestling in the Sooner State -- this Cowboy was an all-state football star who took up wrestling as a high school sophomore ... and became a three-time Oklahoma high school state champ at heavyweight (1958-1960). Brisco reportedly chose to wrestle at Oklahoma State rather than play football for the Oklahoma Sooners. College credentials: Brisco was a two-time Big 8 conference champ at 191 lbs (1964-1965); two-time NCAA Division I All-American at 191 -- runner-up in 1964 (losing to Ohio University's Harry Houska in the finals), NCAA champ in 1965 (pinning Wisconsin's Dan Pernat). Compiled a 27-1-1 record as a Cowboy. Pro wrestling resume: Launched his pro career right out of college (June 1965) and retired suddenly in 1984. Mike DiBiase, University of Nebraska Pro wrestling fans may recognize the name DiBiase from Ted "Million Dollar Man" DiBiase and Michael DiBiase II -- the stepson and step-grandson (respectively) of "Iron Mike" DiBiase, who was a two-time Nebraska high school state champ for Omaha Tech. College credentials: The Omaha native was a 1946 AAU (Amateur Athletic Union) national champ while still in high school, and, as a Cornhusker, a two-time NCAA qualifier. Pro wrestling resume: DiBiase jumped into the pro ring in 1950; died of a heart attack after a match in Amarillo at age 45. Verne Gagne, University of Minnesota Verne GagneLaverne Clarence Gagne was a two-time Minnesota high school state champ at heavyweight (1942, 1943). He recruited to play football at the University of Minnesota, but made more of a name for himself as a wrestler for the Golden Gophers. College credentials: Gagne was the four-time Big Ten wrestling champ at any weight (175 pounds in 1943; 191 pounds in 1948, heavyweight in 1947 and 1949). The Corcoran, Minnesota native was a two-time NCAA champ, winning the 191-pound title at the 1948 NCAAs ... then the heavyweight title at the 1949 NCAAs on a controversial referee's decision over Dick Hutton of Oklahoma State. Wrestled at the 1948 London Olympics while a Golden Gopher. Pro wrestling resume: Gagne entered the pro wrestling ring in 1949. His career spanned more than three decades, including numerous stints as world champion in the American Wrestling Association. Off the mat: After his freshman year at Minnesota, Gagne served two years in the U.S. Marine Corps at El Toro, California during World War II. After college, Gagne briefly played for the Green Bay Packers. Bob Geigel, University of Iowa A native of Algona, Iowa, Geigel earned letters in football and wrestling in high school and at Iowa. College credentials: The hirsute Hawkeye was a two-time NCAA qualifier and 1949 NCAA All-American, placing third at 191 pounds. Pro wrestling resume: Geigel made his pro debut right out of college (in 1950) and had a career as a wrestler, manager and promoter that spanned decades. Off the mat: Geigel served in the U.S. Navy for four years during World War II. Ed George, University of Michigan Born outside Buffalo, Edward N. George played football and wrestled for the Michigan Wolverines. He wrestled for the U.S. at the 1928 Amsterdam Olympics, where he defeated Earl McCready (who was competing for his native Canada) but did not earn a medal. College credentials: As a Wolverine matman wrestling for coach Cliff Keen, George was a 1929 Big Ten champ, and undefeated two seasons ... but was unable to compete in the 1929 NCAAs because of an injury. George also won two national AAU wrestling titles while at Michigan. Pro wrestling resume: Discovered at a carnival, the Michigan grad stepped into the squared circle in 1929 as Ed Don George, and had a successful career up to World War II, where he taught hand-to-hand combat for the U.S. Navy. After the war, George became a pro wrestling promoter. Ray Gunkel, Purdue University A multi-sport athlete, Ray Gunkel earned letters in football and wrestling at the Big Ten school in West Lafayette, Indiana. College credentials: The Chicago native was a two-time NCAA All-American, making it to the heavyweight finals at the 1947 NCAAs, losing to Oklahoma State's Dick Hutton in overtime. Gunkel was also a two-time AAU national champ in 1947 and 1948. Pro wrestling resume: Gunkel's pro career lasted from 1948 to his death in 1972. Dan Hodge, University of Oklahoma One of only fifteen men to be voted onto the NCAA 75th Anniversary team of all-time great college wrestlers, Dan Allen Hodge is the only amateur wrestler to grace the cover of Sports Illustrated as an amateur wrestler. In 1951, Hodge won the Oklahoma high school state championship at 165 pounds. He served in the US Navy right out of school, then chose Oklahoma (despite an offer from Northwestern University). Hodge also was a two-time U.S. Olympic freestyle team member; in 1952 at Helsinki, he placed fifth ... while in Melbourne in 1956, he lost out on a gold medal on a controversial call, settling for silver. College credentials: The Perry, Oklahoma native was a three-time Big Seven conference champ at 177 pounds (1955-1957) and a three-time NCAA champ (1955-1957). Hodge was only the second wrestler to win all three national finals by pin (the other was Earl McCready), and won the NCAA Outstanding Wrestler two years in a row (1956, 1957). Pro wrestling resume: Hodge, who had been a Golden Gloves amateur boxing champ, became a pro wrestler after being disgusted by professional boxing, and held numerous junior heavyweight titles in his career that spanned 1959-1976. Off the mat: Hodge was inducted into the National Wrestling Hall of Fame as a Distinguished Member in the inaugural class in 1976. Since 1995, the prestigious Hodge Trophy has been awarded each year to the best college wrestler in the nation. Dick Hutton, Oklahoma State After being cut from his junior high basketball season, Richard Heron Avis Hutton embarked on a winning wrestling career. A big bear of a man at 5'10" and 245 pounds, Hutton just missed out on becoming the first four-time NCAA wrestling champ … decades before Pat Smith and Cael Sanderson. College credentials: The Amarillo native was a three-time NCAA heavyweight champ (1947-1948, 1950) who lost the 1949 NCAA title on a questionable referee's decision in the championship match with Minnesota's Verne Gagne -- Hutton's only loss in college. Placed fifth at the 1948 London Olympics. Pro wrestling resume: After graduation and a two-year stint in the Army, Hutton jumped into the pro ring, becoming a world champ in 1957 by defeating the legendary Lou Thesz. Off the mat: Served in the U.S. Army twice -- first, immediately after high school during World War II, then a second time immediately after college in the early 1950s. Inducted as Distinguished Member of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame in 1995. Adnan Kaisy, Oklahoma State Adnan Kaisy (Photo/AWN)A native of Baghdad, Adnan Kaisy wrestled as a teenager for the Iraq Olympic team in 1956 before coming to the U.S. for college at Oklahoma State, where he was a roommate of 1960 US Olympic gold medalist, Shelby Wilson. College credentials: Kaisy wrestled two seasons for the Cowboys, compiling a 11-6-3 record. He placed third at 1958 Big 8 conference championships, and was a two-time NCAA All-American, placing fourth in 1958 and 1959. Pro wrestling resume: The former Cowboy made his pro debut in 1959; over the years, he wrestled as Billy White Wolf, Sheik Adnan Al-Kaisey, and General Adnan. Bob Konovsky, University of Wisconsin Robert Erwin Konovsky was a big, burly sports star for Badgers, both on the gridiron (where he was an NCAA football All-American tackle) and on the mat (as two-time NCAA heavyweight finalist). College credentials: A native of Chicago, Konovsky was a three-time Big Ten heavyweight champ (1954-1956) and a three-time NCAA All-American (1954-1956). He was a two-time NCAA runner-up; in 1954, he lost to Oklahoma State's Gene Nicks ... and, in 1956, came up short against Oklahoma's Gordon Roesler. Pro wrestling resume: The former Badger launched his pro ring career in the late 1950s. Off the mat: Konovsky played in the NFL for four seasons. Leonard "Butch" Levy, University of Minnesota Sixty years before Brock Lesnar won his NCAA title as a University of Minnesota wrestler, Leonard Levy became the school's first national collegiate heavyweight champ. (He also played football for the Golden Gophers.) Levy was a two-time Minnesota high school state heavyweight champ (1937-1938). College credentials: The Minneapolis native won the heavyweight title at the 1941 NCAAs with a 5-2 win over Yale's Larry Pickett in the finals. Pro wrestling resume: After a brief pro football career, Levy launched his ring career in 1948; was a NWA Tag Team titleholder on two occasions with two Minnesota gridiron/grappling alums: first, with Verne Gagne, then later, with Leo Nomellini. Off the mat: Between his college and pro wrestling careers, Levy served in the U.S. Navy for three years during World War II. Dale Lewis, University of Oklahoma Dale Lewis (Photo/AWN)For all his accomplishments as an amateur wrestler, it's somewhat surprising that Dale Lewis did not wrestle in high school. After a couple years at Marquette University in Milwaukee (where he attended on a football and basketball scholarship), Lewis left school for the U.S. Marine Corps where he was introduced to the sport ... then wrestled in both collegiate and international competition. The Rib Lake, Wisconsin native wrestled Greco-Roman for the U.S. at the 1956 Melbourne and 1960 Rome Olympics (did not place); earned a gold medal at the 1959 Pan Am Games in freestyle. College credentials: While at Oklahoma, Lewis was a two-time Big 8 heavyweight champ (1960, 1961) after placing fourth in 1959, then was a two-time NCAA heavyweight champ (1960, 1961) after not placing in 1959. He also won a national AAU freestyle title in 1961. Pro wrestling resume: Lewis entered the pro ring in 1961. Competed for two decades, often as "The Professor." Bob Marella, Ithaca College Even fans of old-school amateur wrestling may not recognize the name Robert James Marella as an NCAA finalist ... but just about everyone recognizes the name Gorilla Monsoon as a pro wrestler and WWF commentator up to his death in 1999. In addition to wrestling, the 6'5", 350-pound Marella participated in football and track and field. College credentials: The Rochester, New York native was the 1959 NCAA runner-up at heavyweight, losing to Oklahoma State's Ted Ellis in the finals. Pro wrestling resume: Marella debuted in 1959, making a name for himself as Gorilla Monsoon. Long-time commentator for the WWF (now WWE). Earl McCready, Oklahoma State Earl Gray McCready can claim a number of firsts: First NCAA heavyweight champ, first foreign-born (Canada) NCAA titlewinner, and first three-time NCAA champ at any weight. He wrestled for his homeland at the 1928 Olympics, losing to U.S. team member Ed George of the University of Michigan. College credentials: The Canadian native was undefeated in college, with a 25-0 record. McCready won three NCAA heavyweight titles (1928-1930); all his finals matches ended in a fall. (Only one other three-time NCAA champ can make that claim: Dan Hodge.) McCready also holds the record for the fastest fall in NCAA finals history, pinning University of Kansas' Ralph Freese in just 19 seconds. Pro wrestling resume: After graduating from Oklahoma State in 1930, McCready launched a pro wrestling career that spanned three decades. Off the mat: McCready is enshrined in numerous halls of fame, including the National Wrestling Hall of Fame in 1977. LeRoy McGuirk, Oklahoma State LeRoy McGuirk (Photo/1930 Redskin)As a Cowboy wrestler in the early 1930s for the legendary coach Ed Gallagher, McGuirk wrestled anywhere from 155 pounds up to heavyweight. College credentials: Born in Oklahoma, McGuirk was a two-time NCAA All-American, winning the 155-pound title at the 1931 NCAAs, and was a runner-up at 174 the following year. Pro wrestling resume: After college, McGuirk had a ring career that spanned the 1930s and 40s. After a car accident that left him blind, he became a wrestling promoter who is credited with launching the pro careers of Dan Hodge, Bill Watts and Jack Brisco. Bill Miller, Ohio State William M. Miller was an imposing figure, towering 6' 6" and tipping the scales at 290 pounds. As a Buckeye, Miller lettered in wrestling, track and football; he was on the 1950 Rose Bowl team. Just as impressive: While at Ohio State University, Miller earned a degree in veterinary science. College credentials: A native of Fremont, Ohio, "Big" Bill Miller was a two-time Big Ten heavyweight champ (1950, 1951) and three-time conference finalist (losing to Verne Gagne in the 1949 finals). Miller was also a 1951 NCAA All-American at heavyweight, placing third. Pro wrestling resume: Miller entered pro ring in 1951, where he competed as "Dr." Bill Miller, which was appropriate, since he was a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. Off the mat: Miller was inducted into the Ohio State Athletics Hall of Fame in 1997. He opened a veterinary practice after retiring from the squared circle. Leo Nomellini, University of Minnesota Leo Joseph Nomellini was a multi-sport star at the University of Minnesota, earning letters at Minnesota for wrestling, football, and track, despite never having played sports in high school in Chicago. Held in awe for his powerful physique and incredible strength, there are stories of how "Leo the Lion" broke an NFL strength-testing machine. College credentials: Nomellini was runner-up at heavyweight at the 1950 Big Tens, losing to Ohio State's Bill Miller in the finals. Pro wrestling resume: The native of Italy took up pro wrestling during the off-season in the NFL playing for the San Francisco 49ers; wrestled tag teams with fellow Minnesota alum Verne Gagne. Off the mat: Nomellini served as a U.S. Marine in World War II. After 14 seasons in the NFL, "Leo the Lion" was inducted into the NFL Hall of Fame in 1969. Nat Pendleton, Columbia University A product of Davenport, Iowa, Nathaniel Greene Pendleton won a silver medal in wrestling at the 1920 Olympics in Antwerp, Belgium. College credentials: Pendleton wrestled at Columbia University, where he was a two-time EIWA (Eastern Intercollegiate Wrestling Association) champ in 1914-1915. Pro wrestling resume: The Iowa native enjoyed some success as a professional wrestler in the 1920s, then, long before Dwayne "the Rock" Johnson, Pendleton parlayed that fame -- and his good looks and muscular body -- into a movie career playing tough guys and strongmen, most notably late 1800s bodybuilder Eugen Sandow in the 1936 Oscar-winning blockbuster The Great Ziegfeld. Jim Raschke, University of Nebraska Jim RaschkePro wrestling bad guy Baron von Raschke was presented as a German ... but in real life James Donald Raschke was a corn-fed Nebraskan with deep roots in real wrestling, with a 1958 Nebraska high school state title, a 1963 World bronze medal, and 1964 AAU freestyle and Greco-Roman titles. College credentials: Born in Omaha, Raschke was a two-time Big 8 heavyweight finalist, winning the title in 1962 ... and a three-time NCAA qualifier (1960-1962). Pro wrestling resume: First climbed into the squared circle in 1966; had a long career as Baron von Raschke, purveyor of The Claw. Robin Reed, Oregon State Considered by some to be the best U.S. wrestler prior to World War II at any weight, Robin Lawrence Reed was born in Arkansas in 1899, but wrestled in high school in Portland, Oregon. He was a two-time Olympian, winning the gold medal in freestyle at 135 pounds at the 1924 Paris Olympics. College credentials: Reed wrestled at Oregon State in the early 1920s, where he was undefeated. Won the 125-pound AAU national title in 1921, then won AAU crowns at 135 in 1922 and 1924. Known for his pinning ability and rugged, take-no-prisoners wrestling style even as an amateur. Pro wrestling resume: Despite being light in weight, Reed had a ten-year career as a pro wrestler, taking on heftier opponents. Off the mat: Reed was welcomed into the National Wrestling Hall of Fame in 1978. Brad Rheingans, North Dakota State This product of Appleton, Minnesota was a multi-sport star in high school, co-captain of the football team, discus and shot putter, and wrestler, where he was a two-time state champ. But that was just the beginning. Rheingans won eight national Greco-Roman titles, two gold medals at the Pan Am Games, a bronze medal at the 1979 World Championships, and was a two-time U.S. Olympic team member, placing fourth at he 1976 Montreal Games. He even was an assistant Greco coach for the U.S. team at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics. College credentials: As a NDSU wrestler, Rheingans was a three-time North Central Conference Champ at 177 and 190 pounds, and a 1975 NCAA Division II champ at 190. He advanced to the NCAA Division I Championships, where he placed fourth, earning All-American honors. He later served as an assistant coach at the University of Minnesota. Pro wrestling resume: Rheingans had a 14-year pro career, working mostly in Verne Gagne's AWA organization, then as a trainer, setting up a school to teach future professional wrestlers the ropes. Jack Riley, Northwestern University Jack RileyJake Herbert, two-time NCAA champ from Northwestern (2007, 2009), is the second Wildcat to win two national titles. The first was John "Jack" Horn Riley. The 6'2", 218 pounder from the north shore suburbs of Chicago was a football All-American at Northwestern, and won a silver medal in freestyle at the 1932 Los Angeles Olympics. College credentials: Riley, who first took up wrestling in college, was a two-time Big Ten heavyweight finalist, winning the conference title in 1931. The Wildcat won the NCAA heavyweight champ twice -- in 1931 and 1932 -- becoming Northwestern's first two-time national champ. Riley was known for his painful double wrist lock that forced opponents onto their backs (a hold since banned by the NCAA). Pro wrestling resume: Riley had a brief but successful pro wrestling career. In just two years, he won 132 bouts. Off the mat: After leaving the wrestling ring, Riley played professional football ... then served in the Marines during World War II ... then came back to Northwestern to serve as head wrestling coach in the 1950s (nearly nabbing Dan Hodge before he committed to Oklahoma). Later he was a successful businessman in the Chicago area. Bob Roop, Southern Illinois University-Carbondale Robert Roop was introduced to the sport in eighth grade. At East Lansing High School, Roop won a Michigan state title his senior year. After some time in the Army as a paratrooper, he entered college, and his wrestling career soared to new heights. College credentials: Roop wrestled at SIU-Carbondale, where he compiled an impressive 66-18 record. While in college, he qualified for the U.S. Olympic team, where he placed seventh in Greco-Roman competition at superheavyweight. He won the national AAU title the following year. Pro wrestling resume: The Blacksburg, Virginia native enjoyed an 18-year career inside the ropes. Joe Scarpello, University of Iowa The most decorated wrestler to come out of the University of Iowa in the 1940s, Joseph J. Scarpello was a three-time Nebraska state champ for Omaha Central High (1940-1942). He was an alternate for U.S. team at the 1948 London Olympics. College credentials: Scarpello was the Hawkeyes' first four-time Big Ten champ at 175 pounds (1947-1950) and the school's first four-time NCAA All-American (1947-1950). The Omaha native was a two-time NCAA champ at 175 (1947 and 1950), and a runner-up at the 1949 NCAAs. Pro wrestling resume: Scarpello climbed into the ring in 1950, launching a 25-year career that included some time as a tag-team partner with Verne Gagne. Off the mat: Before wrestling for Iowa, Scarpello served in the U.S. Air Force during World War II. Ralph Silverstein, University of Illinois Like Jack Riley, Ralph Silverstein was a native of Chicago. For college, Silverstein stayed in state but headed south, where he wrestled for the Fighting Illini in the Big Ten. College credentials: In 1935, Silverstein won the 175-pound crown at the Big Tens, then a couple weeks later, claimed the NCAA title at 175, defeating Lloyd Ricks of Oklahoma State (who later became NCAA heavyweight champ in 1937). The following year, Silverstein won his second Big Ten title, this time at heavyweight. Pro wrestling resume: After graduation, the compact (5'8", 225-pound) champ had a successful pro career as "Ruffy" Silverstein. "Cowboy" Bill Watts, University of Oklahoma Wrestled and played football at Putnam County High in Oklahoma, then continued in the same sports as an Oklahoma Sooner. College credentials: Watts was on the Oklahoma wrestling team at the same time as Dale Lewis, and basically served as the two-time NCAA heavyweight champ's workout partner. Pro wrestling resume: After playing for the Houston Oilers and Minnesota Vikings, Watts stepped off the gridiron and into the ring, where he was a wrestler and promoter for over two decades. Steve "Dr Death" Williams, University of Oklahoma Born in the Denver area, Williams was known for playing football for the Sooners ... but he also wrestled at Oklahoma for head coach Stan Abel. He reportedly earned the nickname "Dr Death" not as a pro wrestler, but early in his amateur wrestling career, when he wore a hockey mask after suffering a facial injury. College credentials: Williams was a three-time Big Eight (now Big 12) conference heavyweight champ (1980-1982), and a four-time NCAA Division I All-American, making it to the heavyweight finals of the 1982 NCAAs (after beating 1981 NCAA champ Lou Banach of Iowa in the semifinals), where he lost to Bruce Baumgartner of Indiana State, 4-2. Pro wrestling resume: Williams' ring career spanned more than two decades. He sometimes wrestled in what looked like an Oklahoma Sooners singlet. Tim Woodin, Michigan State Tim WoodinGeorge Burrell "Tim" Woodin was a four-time New York Section IV champ for Ithaca High and was a two-time AAU national champ (1955, 1957), winning his first title while still in high school. He was a multi-sport athlete, as a shot putter and track star. College credentials: The strapping Spartan (standing 6'1", with a chiseled musculature) was a two-time Big Ten champ (1958, 1959), and a two-time NCAA All-American and finalist. At the 1958 NCAAs, he lost the 177-pound crown to Iowa's Gary Kurdelmeier (future Hawkeye head coach); the following year, he missed out on the 191 title to Syracuse's Art Baker (future Buffalo Bills star). Pro wrestling resume: The New York native launched a 22-year career in 1962, usually wrestling as masked "good-guy" Mr. Wrestling or unmasked as Tim Woods. Despite more and more wrestlers opting for MMA careers after college, the pipeline from the collegiate mat to the pro wrestling ring hasn't dried up completely. In the past decade or so, a number of former college All-Americans have fashioned successful careers in professional wrestling, including Kurt Angle (Clarion University), Shelton Benjamin and Brock Lesnar (University of Minnesota), and Jake Hager (University of Oklahoma), wrestling as Jack Swagger in the WWE. For more photos of each of these athletes -- as college All-Americans, and as professional wrestlers -- visit the "Amateur Wrestlers Go Pro" photo album at Vintage Amateur Wrestling Photo Annex 2 Yahoo group.

Bjorn Rebney

After winning last year's Dapper Dan Wrestling Classic, 30-21, against the United States, which ended an eight-year losing streak, Pennsylvania thought it would use one of its best senior classes ever to pick up a second consecutive win. However, it was not to be -- as the best from across the nation took nine of 13 matches in earning a 30-13 victory. The tone was established right off the bat, as two wrestlers ranked first nationally in the midseason national rankings defeated their Keystone State opponents. Despite winning a third state championship, Jamie Clark (St. Edward) had a disappointing back end to his senior season at 130 pounds with late January losses to a pair of freshmen. However, in the opening match of the Wrestling Classic, Clark used a first period takedown and second period escape to earn a 3-1 victory over state champion Joe Spisak (Boiling Springs). Team USA opened up a 6-0 dual meet lead after Ryak Finch (Safford, AZ) used superior mat wrestling to earn an 8-5 victory against Mike Rhone (Benton). The pair of nationally ranked wrestlers at 119 pounds wrestled down one weight at 112 pounds, as the Wrestling Classic is completed in a randomized weight class order. State champion Spencer Myers (Selinsgrove) -- ranked third nationally -- finally put Pennsylvania on the board with a 3-1 victory over second-ranked Trevor Rupp (Pocatello, ID). A takedown at the edge of the mat late in the first period was enough to spark Myers to the victory in the 215-pound match. However, that would be the end of Keystone State wrestlers getting their hands raised until the back end of the match, as the United States would win six consecutive matches to extend a 6-3 lead into a match-clinching 27-3 lead after the first nine matches. The run started with four-time state champion Logan Stieber (Monroeville, OH) defeating state champion Mitchell Port (Bellefonte) 11-5 at 125 pounds. The top-ranked Stieber dominated the first two periods against the sixth ranked wrestler in the nation with a takedowns and turn using his arm-bar series during each period. With the score 9-3, Bobby Telford (St. Mark's DE) would win the Turning Point Award with a second period pin over Evan Craig (Abington Heights) in a matchup of wrestlers ranked in the top four nationally at 285 pounds. Not only was it a pin, but it was total dominance, as Telford had takedowns in each period and was tough on top heading towards the fall. "I was confident heading into the match," said Telford. "Since the state tournament ended, I've been working with my coaches a couple times a week. They've been pushing me real hard, and I responded." Heading into his collegiate career at the University of Iowa, Telford cites "the mental game" as an area for potential improvement. "The transition from middle school to high school was tough, but the transition from high school to college will be three times as hard; but I'm looking forward to it." A third win for wrestlers from Ohio occurred at 119 pounds, as three-time state champion Ty Mitch (Aurora, OH) hung on for a 12-11 win against state runner-up Anthony Marino (Bethlehem Liberty). Six explosive takedowns in the first 3-1/2 minutes gave Mitch a 12-5 lead; however, Marino cut the deficit to 12-9 with a four point reversal at the end of the second period when he caught Mitch out of position. A late third period takedown cut the deficit to one, but Marino could not get the go ahead points. The next match at 189 pounds had another comeback attempt by the Pennsylvania wrestler fall short, as state champion Jamie Callender (Council Rock North) scored two third period takedowns in a valiant effort to come back from 6-1 down after two periods. However, National Prep champion Michael Evans (Blair Academy, NJ) remained undefeated with an 8-5 victory. It was at least his tenth victory over a nationally ranked opponent this season. Two-time state champion Nick Visicaro (Long Branch, NJ) moved up one weight class for the Dapper Dan Wrestling Classic, and competed in the 171 pound weight class. Despite the disadvantage in size, Visicaro would score a pair of takedowns in each the first and third period to secure the 10-5 victory over state champion Matthew Cunningham (Shady Side Academy). The takedowns in the third period, along with an initial escape, separated what was a 5-4 lead into a dominant victory. The last victory of the six-match run for the United States involved wrestlers ranked first and second in the nation at 140 pounds. Four-time National Prep champion Chris Villalonga (Blair Academy, NJ) entered the Wrestling Classic without a regular season loss since late December of 2006, and entered the third period with a 3-2 lead against two-time state champion Josh Kindig (Blue Mountain, PA). He was faced with the task of possibly having to ride out Kindig, who chose the down position to start the period, in order to earn the victory. In addition to securing the ride out, Villalonga was able to score a three-point near fall finishing a cross-body turk after getting a double leg takedown lift finish. In assessing the third period, Villalonga observed: "I felt confident in the top position, that I could get the turn. Once I secured the cross-body ride, I slowly focused on getting the turn to score." "Kindig is a great competitor," Villalonga added. "It was an exciting match for both of us, and hopefully the fans got what they came to see. This is part of a great culmination to my career (with NHSCA Senior Nationals and the Wrestling USA Dream Team Classic still to come)." Villalonga was named the Outstanding Wrestler for Team USA. Finally, the storm in favor of the USA would end, as Josh Dziewa (Council Rock South) was dominant in a 14-5 major decision victory over top-ranked Ryen Nieman (Bullock Creek, MI). Key to the match were two upper body toss situations, one in each of the first two periods; both of which Dziewa came out ahead. "Timing is everything. I hit my toss at the right time," said Dziewa. "My dad taught me how to hit throws ever since early in my career, so it's part of my repertoire." Those scores helped give Dziewa a 9-1 lead after the first two periods. Though Nieman would close the gap with two third period takedowns, Dziewa earned the major decision with a late takedown. "I think the debate about who is best in the weight class was (for now) settled," Dziewa stated. The University of Iowa signee was named Outstanding Wrestler for the Pennsylvania squad. Dziewa had the following comments about wrestling for Iowa: "It's been a dream of mine for a long time. Everything about the program was perfect for me. They have four Olympians on the coaching staff, and there is a ton of talent to work with on a day-to-day basis. I'm pumped, and hope to fight for a lineup spot." Marshall Peppelman (Central Dauphin), ranked first in the nation, grinded out a 1-0 victory against third-ranked Nick Sulzer (St. Edward, OH) at 160 pounds. Key to the victory was the fact he rode Sulzer out for the duration of the second period. Though Sulzer dominated the third period attack trying to rally from behind, Peppelman was able to fend off the attacks with effective positioning, counter execution, and a high level of desire. Even though the dual meet was out of reach, Andrew Alton (Central Mountain) -- also ranked first in the nation -- dominated his way to a 9-4 victory over Joey Cozart (Brandon, FL) with a pair of takedowns in each the first and second period. "I felt good the whole match," said Alton. "All facets of my offense were locked in." The Wrestling Classic victory capped off an undefeated season for the Penn State signee. "The Dapper Dan was everything I thought it would be, it was enjoyable," added Alton. "I'm looking forward to wrestling for the Nittany Lions, and becoming an even better wrestler." With the randomized order of matches in the main event, the organizers hope to place a premier bout at the end of the evening. The bout between third-ranked Jackson Morse (Lowell, MI) and top-ranked Dylan Alton (Central Mountain) at 152 pounds did not disappoint. In an ending that was dramatic, though somewhat controversial, Morse emerged as the rightful winner with a 7-6 victory. Morse opened the scoring, as he countered a Dylan Alton attack with a headlock toss to Alton's back -- though no near fall points were granted. After the Alton escape, he was able to score a takedown; Morse secured the late escape, as the first period ended in a 3-3 tie. Dylan Alton scored the only point of the second period on an escape, though Morse almost had a takedown late in the second period but was ruled to be out of bounds. An escape by Morse to start the third period tied the match at 4-4. Alton secured the go-ahead takedown, but Morse was able to escape making the score 6-5 heading into the last thirty seconds. After a sequence in which Morse was close to scoring, but it was ruled out of bounds, very little time remained. Morse hit an inside trip, finishing right at the edge of the mat as time was about to expire. Originally, it was scored as nothing -- time expiring and/or the finish being out of bounds. However, after some argument -- and much conversation between the calling and assisting official -- it was ruled a takedown for Morse and the final points in a 7-6 victory. "I just stayed focused on what had to be done out there," said Morse. "No matter what happened during the match, I kept the faith and fought tough." USA 30, Pennsylvania 13 130: Jamie Clark (St. Edward, OH) dec. Joe Spisak (Boiling Springs), 3-1 112: Ryak Finch (Safford, AZ) dec. Michael Rhone (Benton), 8-5 215: Spencer Myers (Selinsgrove) dec. Trevor Rupp (Pocatello, ID), 3-1 125: Logan Stieber (Monroeville, OH) dec. Mitchell Port (Bellefonte), 11-5 285: Bobby Telford (St. Mark’s, DE) pinned Evan Craig (Abington Heights), 3:38 119: Ty Mitch (Aurora, OH) dec. Anthony Marino (Bethlehem Liberty), 12-11 189: Michael Evans (Blair Academy, NJ) dec. Jamie Callender (Council Rock North), 8-5 171: Nick Visicaro (Long Branch, NJ) dec. Matthew Cunningham (Shady Side Academy), 10-5 140: Chris Villalonga (Blair Academy, NJ) dec. Josh Kindig (Blue Mountain), 6-2 135: Josh Dziewa (Council Rock South) major decision Ryen Nieman (Bullock Creek, MI), 14-5 160: Marshall Peppelman (Central Dauphin) dec. Nick Sulzer (St. Edward, OH), 1-0 145: Andrew Alton (Central Mountain) dec. Joey Cozart (Brandon, FL), 9-4 152: Jackson Morse (Lowell, MI) dec. Dylan Alton (Central Mountain), 7-6 Turning Point Award: Bobby Telford (St. Mark’s DE), 285 pounds -- a pin over Evan Craig to make the score 15-3 in favor of the United States Outstanding Wrestlers: USA: Chris Villalonga (Blair Academy, NJ), 140 pounds PA: Josh Dziewa (Council Rock South), 135 pounds

Event: UFC on Versus Venue: 1stBANK Center (Broomfield, Colorado) Date: March 21, 2010 The UFC Monster is in Omaha and just took in the NCAA finals, so I will keep this bonus UFC preview coverage to a short summary. Tonight's television coverage on the Versus channel will be the first live broadcast of a UFC event ever on cable/satellite dish television. And, what a card it is! For those who have not seen any UFC fights, this is your chance to do so for FREE. Those of you who followed the UFC Monster's advice for UFC 110, you would have won $300 making the bets as suggested right here on this Web site. I have consistently won money with my postings on these UFC cards, though I encourage players to tread cautiously, as anything can happen in mixed martial arts fighting. The better fighter does not always win. But that's what makes it interesting and challenging. Good advice is to only bet with money you can afford to lose. But, when you win, you should certainly invest in an InterMat platinum subscription. You will be glad you did! Now let's take an abbreviated look at tonight's card. In the main event, we have the rising star of former JUCO national champion (Iowa Central CC) Jon "Bones" Jones, taking on Muay Thai striking expert Brandon Vera. Vera's big fight experience may be the difference here against the multi-talented Jones. And, at +200 I'll take my chances. Bet Vera to pull the shocking upset. Vera wins a close decision. Junior Dos Santos has been mowing down opponents with first round KOs. Gabriel Gonzalez has one of the UFC's most devastating KOs (head kick to Mirko Cro Cop) on his resume. He is also a lethal Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt practitioner, who has come to rely on his striking instead of his ground game. That could be a mistake against Dos Santos. I'll ride the hot horse here. Take Dos Santos and lay the -280. Junior by first round KO. Heavyweight Cheick Kongo is a beast. He seems to dominate most of the fighters in his weight class, but struggles with the elite. Yet, his KO power is second to none, and he is usually able to end fights quickly with a vicious ground-and-pound. His ground game is weak, and history shows that a strong ground fighter will usually have their way with Kongo. But Paul Buentello is anything but that. Buentello, "The Headhunter," is a slugger who thrives on KOs. This one ends early. Lay the juice on Kongo at -365 to win by first round KO. James Irwin has striking power, but not much else. Alessio Sakara is a savvy striker, as well. I see this one going toe-to-toe with Sakara having crisper, more accurate punching. I'll make a play on him as a slight +110 underdog. Let's call it a second round KO. That completes the televised fights. Here are the rest, some of which may make the TV screen if time allows. John Howard -200 has too many weapons for Dan Roberts and wins by TKO. Clay Guida -500 will submit Shannon Gugerty. Eliot Marshall +155 will upset Vladimer Matyushenko and win a decision. Eric "Red" Shafer +120 will beat Jason Britz by triangle choke. Mike Pierce -400 will out wrestle and out-point bully Julio Paulino. Veteran Duane Ludwig -155 will win a decision over Darren Elkins. Brendan Schaub -240 will also win by decision over Chase Gormley. So let's see what we can do with our fictitious $1000 bankroll. Let's lay $ 80 to win $160 on Vera. Let's lay $140 to win $50 on Dos Santos. Let's lay $146 to win $40 on Kongo. Let's lay $60 to win $72 on Sakara. Let's lay $100 to win $50 on Howard. Let's lay $120 to win $30 on Guida. Let's lay $60 to win $93 on Marshall. Let's lay $60 to win $72 on Shafer. Let's lay $120 to win $30 on Pierce. Let's lay $40 to win $25 on Ludwig. Let's lay $72 to win $30 on Schaub. In total we are risking $999 to win $652. Good luck and enjoy the fights. I know I will. And, don't forget to support your local youth wrestling program where tomorrow's champions are born.

OMAHA, Neb. -- Redshirt senior Angel Escobedo cemented himself as one of, if not the, greatest wrestlers in Indiana University history, placing third at the 2010 NCAA Championships to become the first four-time All-American in school history. Escobedo completed his run at the nationals on Saturday with a pair of wins over opponents ranked in the top-10, including second-ranked Troy Nickerson of Cornell. The Griffith, Ind., native began by posting a 10-3 decision over No. 6 Zach Sanders of Minnesota. Escobedo took down the Golden Gopher three times and turned him for a two-point near-fall in the opening period. With the win, Escobedo advanced to the third-place match where he would face fellow four-time All-American and defending national champion, Troy Nickerson. Escobedo worked a single-leg mid-way through the first period to record the takedown. As Nickerson attempted to bring the action out of bounds, Escobedo was able to drag him back inside the circle before lunging for the successful takedown. That takedown would prove to be the difference in the end as it was the last points scored in Escobedo's 2-0 decision, ending his season with a 38-1 record. Escobedo concludes his career with 137 total wins and 42 falls, each ranking as the second most in IU lore. He posted NCAA finishes of third, fourth, fifth and won the 2008 national title during his four years donning the Cream and Crimson. Next up for the celebrated Hoosier is a run at qualifying for the 2012 Summer Olympics. Fellow senior Nate Everhart also had a stellar performance at the nationals, reaching the round of 12 and coming up just one victory shy of claiming his own All-America accolades. Everhart notched three W's in the NCAAs, defeating Corey Morrison (Ohio State), 5-2, Eric Bugenhagen (Wisconsin), 5-1 and Brendan Barlow (Kent State), 4-1. Kurt Kinser was a three-time winner as well. The Bloomington High School South product went on a three-match winning streak in the consolations that saw him out-score his competition by a combined scored of 16-2. Fellow South Panther Paul Young was also in action on day two at the NCAA Championships. Young posted back-to-back wins in the morning session, one by major decision and the other a 6-1 decision. In his final match of the event, Young put together a valiant comeback by recording four takedowns in the final minute and a half. Fourth-seeded Jonathan Reader held on for the win though, 13-11.