InterMat Staff

Robert ShepherdOn Tuesday, Robert Shepherd, a 2009 Ohio state champion (Division I) from Mason High School, gave a verbal commitment to Princeton. Shepherd project collegiately at 141/149 pounds. He talks about his decision and his wrestling goals. Why Princeton? Shepherd: Throughout high school, I knew that I wanted to wrestle in a Division I college. I needed a great coach and challenging academics to achieve my goals in wrestling and school. Princeton has both of these things going for them in that Chris Ayres is a great coach, and Princeton is the best collegiate education in the country. Also at Princeton it seems that everyone supports each other in everything they do. The sense of community there is very strong, and people are there to help you throughout college, life, and wrestling. On top of that, I feel that in Princeton wrestling I can be a part of a up and coming team that will compete on the national level. What are your future goals in collegiate wrestling? Shepherd: In collegiate wrestling my goal is to be a NCAA champion. I come from a hard working family and wrestling program, in highly competitive state for wrestling. I believe that if I work hard and continue to improve my skills in wrestling, I will achieve this goal. I continue to have the passion and drive that are necessary to be successful in this sport. I feel that I have been quietly going about my business and overlooked in some cases being overshadowed by the larger names in my class. I look forward to wrestling on a national level, and continuing to adapt and work hard to achieve my goals. I feel like I have accomplished most of my goals locally, and that I am just beginning to work toward my goals on a national level. This is a journey and a challenge that I am looking forward to. Do you feel prepared to make the jump to Division I collegiate wrestling? Shepherd: I feel that by the end of my senior year I will be prepared to wrestle competitively at the Division I level. I have great coaching in my high school room, as well as coaches that have successfully competed at the Division I, Division III and NAIA levels that understand what it takes to do well at those levels. My strength coach has coached at many colleges both Division I and Division III and he continues to push me and my team mates to excel and prepare us for now and the future. What three words would describe you? Shepherd: Persistent. Diligent. Focused What are you looking forward to the most headed into your senior season at Mason High School? Shepherd: I am looking forward to leading my team both in wrestling and academically to achieving both the teams goals and my personal goals.

Chris Villalonga of Blair Academy in New Jersey is the best wrestler on the best high school team in the country. He is a three-time National Prep champion and has won both the Walsh Ironman and Beast of the East the past two seasons. Villalonga, who is ranked as the No. 3 recruit in the country by InterMat, gave a verbal commitment to Cornell on Monday. InterMat talks to Villalonga about his college decision, Blair Academy, and his wrestling goals. Chris VillalongaWhy did you decide that Cornell was the best fit for you? What all factored into your decision? Villalonga: In the end, I just felt as though I could achieve all of my goals there. The school speaks for itself both academically and in wrestling. Both of these facts weighed heavily in my decision process. What other schools did you consider and/or take official visits to? Villalonga: Rutgers, Harvard, Penn, and Lehigh. What was the recruiting process like for you? Enjoyable? Stressful? Villalonga: Very stressfull! I want to thank all of the coaches who spent time recruiting me. It was a very difficult decision because all of them put in a great deal of time and effort during this process. In my opinion I could not have made a bad choice because all of the coaches were great. What weight class do you plan to compete at this season? And where do you project collegiately? Villalonga: At this point I am unsure, I will decide in a few weeks when I have to certify. I could see myself competing at 149/157 in college. Have you decided on a major at Cornell? Villalonga: Yes, I plan on attending the AEM School of Business at Cornell. Ivy League schools, like Cornell, are not allowed to redshirt athletes unless there is legitimate injury to the athlete. So you will be competing for a spot in the lineup right away. Did that factor into your decision at all? Villalonga: Yes, it did factor into my decision, but I hope to be ready to compete right away. Cornell has also received a verbal commitment from Marshall Peppelman. Have you gotten to know Marshall at all ... and if so, have you had a chance to talk to him about the decision? Villalonga: Yes, I met him on my official visit and we got to know each other little. I have not spoken to him since then, but look forward to training with him the next four years. The success of the Blair Academy wrestling program speaks for itself. But for you personally, how much has the Blair Academy program helped your development as a wrestler? Villalonga: Blair has helped me grow immensely not only as a wrestler but also as a person. Over these past three plus years, Coach Buxton has taught me so many things in a short period of time that I don�t think I could have learned anywhere else. Even now, each time I step into the wrestling room, I feel as though I learn something new. He gives each one of his wrestlers one hundred percent of himself ... and that is what he expects from us in return. He has taught me many life lessons that will stay with me the rest of my life. You are a three-time National Prep champion, multiple-time Walsh Ironman and Beast of the East champion, and helped lead Blair to a national title last season. What are your wrestling goals for your senior season of high school before you head off to Cornell? Andrew Alton and Chris Villalonga squared off at Junior Nationals in Fargo. Alton is the nation's No. 2 recruit by InterMat, while Villalonga is No. 3 (Photo/Dave Jedlicka/jedicheetah.com)Villalonga: My goals are to hopefully win Walsh Ironman, Beast of the East, and the National Prep titles again this year. If I can accomplish that, it would be a perfect end to my high school career. Obviously, you still have your senior season in front of you, but have you mapped out your college wrestling goals? Villalonga: My goals are probably not much different than most wrestlers entering college. It would be great to be a four-time time All-American and eventual NCAA champion. I obviously have a lot of hard work in front of me to be able to achieve these goals In addition to your high school success at Blair, you have also had success in freestyle. Do you think you plan to continue on with your freestyle career throughout college? And do you have long-term goals in freestyle wrestling? Villalonga: Yes, I enjoy freestyle and plan on competing in college and beyond. Being an Olympic champion is clearly the ultimate accomplishment in wrestling, and I will train with that goal in mind.

COB BASRA, Iraq -- Who is Coach J Robinson? Robinson has had an illustrious career as an Army Ranger during the Vietnam War, an Olympic wrestler and one of the greatest coaches in University of Minnesota history. (Photo/Pfc. J. Princeville Lawrence)Robinson demonstrated his bravery by telling a roomful of military policemen how he listens to Britney Spears and Lady Gaga to get motivated. Robinson is also caring. He flew to Iraq recently to motivate the troops and when he learned the government wasn't going to pay his way, he was perfectly willing to fly halfway around world on his own dime. All to offer a simple "Thank you." "When the chaplain called and asked if I could come, I thought it was the least I could do," said Robinson, who was inducted into the National Wrestling Hall of Fame in 2005. "I was sitting at home, and you know what that's like. It's pretty good. Sometimes you don't realize that until you leave." Robinson visited troops all over Contingency Operating Base Basra, at each stop encouraging Soldiers and telling them to embrace their deployment as a learning experience. "The lessons you learn in Iraq will follow you for the rest of your lives," said Robinson, who attended Airborne, Jungle Warfare and Ranger school before deploying to Vietnam. "I'm more proud to be a Ranger than I am being an Olympian, because the lessons I learned there I've used for the rest of life." (Photo/Pfc. J. Princeville Lawrence)Robinson, a member of the 1972 Olympic wrestling team, addressed Soldiers on the importance of perspective, concentration, and the power of choice and striving for excellence in everything they do. In addition, Robinson told the Soldiers that someday they would be able to look back at their time in Iraq and be proud of the people they had helped, even those they had not known they helped. "One thing you learn as a coach, you do a lot of stuff and you touch a lot of people, and you might never see it," said Robinson. "You're not always going to get that pat on the back." Robinson's busy schedule included wrestling classes with the 34th Military Police Company. The coach of three team national titles instructed the MP's on hand placement and balance; "the fundamentals," said the seven-time Big Ten Coach of the Year. "It's part of his striving for excellence," said Lt. Col. Jeffery Johnson, Inspector General for the 34th Red Bull Infantry Division and an alumnus of the U of M. "A, giving thanks from the state of Minnesota, and B, helping the MP's strive for excellence." (Photo/Pfc. J. Princeville Lawrence)While Robinson could only visit for a few days, his visit was appreciated up to the highest levels. "Soldiers want to know three things: to know that their folks back home are alright, that life back home is going normally, and that folks back home are thinking of them," said Brig. Gen. David Eliciero, deputy commanding general of the 34th Inf. Div., and U of M Class of 1980. "I think this accomplishes that." So who is Coach J Robinson? A Ranger? An Olympian? A Hall of Fame wrestling coach? For a while in COB Basra, the answer was simple: a legend, an old Soldier, a man willing to come back out to the front to show his gratitude to the Soldiers personally. "For me, I have to come out here to say thanks," said Robinson.

LARAMIE, Wyo. -- Expectations will run high for the Wyoming Cowboy Wrestling `Young Guns' in 2009-10, as head coach Mark Branch enters his second year at the controls of the program and after a successful 2008-09 campaign branded UW as a team on the rise in the world of collegiate wrestling. UW returns 11 letterwinners for the 2009-10 season, four NCAA qualifiers including All-American Joe LeBlanc, and boasts a recruiting class that was recognized by numerous national publications for its' potential at the NCAA level. Of 24 Wyoming squad members this season, 20 are underclassmen, meaning this talented young team will represent UW on the wrestling mat for multiple years to come. Several media outlets have listed the Cowboys in their preseason top-25 team polls, in addition to D1CollegeWrestling.net, InterMat, TheOpenMat.com and W.I.N. Magazine each ranking UW's recruiting class in the nation's top 20. "My expectations for this team are always high," Branch quoted. "However, this year the team has the same mind-set that I do. They believe that they are capable of the very highest level both as a team and individually, meaning a national title. I will never tell them otherwise because I have seen amazing things happen first-hand. I believe in the work ethic and skills of our guys and I know they will give me everything I ask of them." Twelve returning team members saw dual match action last season when the Cowboys grabbed a share of the regular season Western Wrestling Conference dual championship with a record of 15-3 overall, 5-0 in the WWC. The 2008-09 UW team also had a runner-up finish at the West Regional/WWC Tournament, four individual champions and automatic NCAA qualifiers, as well as nine of 10 wrestlers placing in the top-three of their weight class which led the WWC. Branch was the league's Coach of the Year and was selected as the Top Rookie Coach in the nation by Amateur Wrestling News. "As far as specific team goals, I will say that after coming so close last year at the conference tournament we definitely want to win that league title and bring that trophy back to Laramie," Branch continued. "Another focal point will be sending ten guys to the NCAA Tournament. As I look up and down our lineup I see that as a realistic possibility." Despite Wyoming's youth, the team should not have to rely on any true freshmen at any of the ten weight classes, so the training approach and scheduling approach has been adjusted by the UW coaching staff to match the squad's needs for the 2009-10 season. Cory VomBaur is one of two (Alex Rieder the other) seniors on the UW team this year and is a three-time NCAA qualifier. "Our approach to preseason training has changed this year since the coaching staff has a better idea of what we have to work with," Branch observed. "There is more of a focus on mat wrestling, more top and bottom work, since we emphasized technique on our feet all of last season. We are trying to address areas where we saw needs and ones that will make us better. "Last year we had a young, unproven team that simply needed live experience. They wrestled more matches than I will probably ever ask of them again, but it was to their benefit. This year, although our team numbers are not where I would like them, we do have options and experience at every weight. Our goal will be to keep the guys healthy, rested and strong, while at the same time facing tougher opponents, and a wide variety of opponents which will help our chances in the NCAA qualification process. "Our schedule will be considerably tougher this year, as we have tried to expose our team to competition across the country. There were really two key elements we considered when putting together our schedule. One, we want to wrestle elite competition, so that when championship time comes around we have confidence knowing we are prepared. Two, we wanted to cater to our fans and provide more opportunities to watch Cowboy Wrestling in Laramie. "We are eagerly anticipating our home events. In addition to hosting the Cowboy Open we have seven dual match-ups, which include the most successful wrestling program in history in Oklahoma State, Northern Iowa and several of our other conference rivals." The Cowboys will have a chance to qualify for the NCAA National Tournament by earning automatic or wild-card bids at the West Regional Tournament and WWC Championship, March 6, 2010 in Brookings, S.D. This year's NCAA Wrestling Championships will be held March 18-20 at the Qwest Center in Omaha, Neb. "Everything that we do as a program is in preparation for the postseason," Branch concludes. "We should be well prepared when that time comes because of the effort we have put into training and because we will have challenged our team during the season against tough teams, in tough tournaments and in tough environments." WEIGHT CLASS BREAKDOWN 125 - 2009 NCAA qualifier Michael Martinez returns at this weight and should make it a strength for the team. The Cowboy sophomore's participation this past summer in the Senior World Team Trials, as well as his successful freshman year will further his confidence with three years of remaining eligibility. Freshman Tyler Cox brings a list of impressive prep credentials, but will likely use his redshirt year. 133 - Senior Cory VomBaur, a three-time NCAA qualifier at this weight, will move up to 141 leaving a void that redshirt freshman Kasey Garnhart is poised to fill. Garnhart is an unknown on the national scene, but has impressed the UW coaches with his hard work and competitive nature. Freshmen Jake Eitzen and Kyle Komata give depth here but should redshirt. 141 - An interesting and exciting group that features three starters from last season who are changing weight classes. VomBaur, who is moving up, and sophomore Chase Smith, who is moving down from 149. Both are experienced, but both may move back to their original weights before season's end. Last year's starter at this weight, junior Cole Dallaserra, is moving up to 149. Newcomers Jimmy Belleville and Colton Zier will also factor into this group, with Belleville expected to redshirt. 149 - Dallaserra will get the nod to start the season here based on his experience. He has hit the weight room hard and has the frame to wrestle at this weight after coming up from 141. Dallaserra came into his own at the end of last year before struggling with an injury. Belleville and Chase Smith could also wrestle at 149. 157 - There is a three-way toss-up at this weight. Sophomores Tyler Davis and Mikah Kadera, as well as redshirt freshman Eric Jones are all on a level playing field. It is a competitive group with depth and it will be interesting to see who rises to the top. Davis has some dual experience and competed in the recent FILA Junior World Team Trials, Kadera got in 22 matches last year, while Jones is very talented, but had a tough initial adjustment to college. 165 - This is another deep weight class for UW, with sophomore Shane Onufer, a 2009 NCAA qualifier at 174, moving down and senior Alex Rieder remaining a viable option. Onufer's body should be a better natural fit in this group than at 174. Sophomore Brock Smith could also wrestle down at this weight. Freshman Patrick Martinez should use his redshirt year here. 174 - There are a lot of good options in this group, including sophomore Dallas Hintz, Rieder and Brock Smith. Competition will drive the market here as all three are very equal and any one could go for the `Pokes. All are team players, will do what is asked of them and are very natural at this weight. Onufer could also wrestle here if needed. 184 - Returning All-American Joe LeBlanc has come back working harder than ever and he headlines the upper weights for UW. The Cowboy sophomore competed for a Junior FILA World Team spot this past summer and wants nothing less than an NCAA title in 2010. Redshirt freshmen Lee (LJ) Helbig and Michael Poulos, as well as sophomore Joe O'Farrell give depth here and should be able to spell LeBlanc when he has the opportunity to rest. 197 - The UW coaches feel good about this weight as sophomore Alfonso Hernandez started most of last year and is the odds on favorite to win the spot in 2009-10. Helbig and O'Farrell will also try to make the travelling squad here. Hernandez is still a raw athlete, but did taste success last year and should challenge to win the conference title after working hard on all aspects of his wrestling. Hwt. - Junior transfer Matthew (Bubba) Mclaughlin is the only true heavyweight on the Wyoming team, but there is a good feeling about his presence in this spot. He was successful at the junior college level and is a hard worker. The key will be to keep Mclaughlin healthy and in order to accomplish that any one of the Cowboy 197 pounders could wrestle up if the opportunity presents itself against smaller opponent heavyweights.

The Peacock wrestling program will enter the 2009-2010 season with a focus on building toward the NCAA Championships in Omaha, Nebraska this coming March. Head Coach Heath Grimm has crafted this year's schedule to best prepare his team for the progression of the Northern Sun Conference season, the NCAA Super Regional, and the NCAA Championships. In November, Upper Iowa will compete in three open tournaments on consecutive Saturdays. UIU will enter the Kaye Young Open in Mason City, Iowa on the 7th, the Pointer Open in Stevens Point, Wisconsin on the 14th, and the Brute-Adidas Open in Minneapolis, Minnesota on the 21st. The Peacocks will wrestle four times in December with an even mix of duals and tournaments. Upper Iowa will travel to Iowa Falls, Iowa to line up against the Panthers of Ellsworth Community College in a dual on the 2nd before opening their home schedule the following Wednesday, the 9th, in Fayette against Waldorf College. The home opener begins at 7:00 p.m. Prior to the Christmas holiday, UIU will enter the Jim Foxx Open in Dubuque, Iowa on the 19th and the Reno Tournament of Champions on the 20th. The field in Reno will include Adams State University, Edinboro University, Minnesota State University, Mankato, Newberry College, Oklahoma State University, Penn State University, Stanford University, University of North Carolina (Chapel Hill), West Virginia University. Upper Iowa will not waste any time getting on the mats in 2010. The Peacocks will compete in the Flash Open in Dubuque, Iowa on the 2nd of January as a tune up for another trip to the NWCA/Cliff Keen National Duals hosted by the University of Northern Iowa in Cedar Falls, Iowa. Upper Iowa placed 8th (2-3) in 2008 and 7th (3-2) at last year's event. The team's success last year was fueled by Trevor Franklin's 5-0 record that included a fall, a technical fall and three decisions by a combined 20 points. After the National Duals, the Peacocks will open their Northern Sun Conference season. Upper Iowa won the NSIC title in 2006-07 and 2007-08. Last year, UIU finished in second place behind Minnesota State, who claimed the runner up spot at last year's NCAA Championships. Upper Iowa will travel for their first two NSIC matches of the season. The Peacocks will battle the Marauders of the University of Mary on Saturday, Jan. 16, and the Wolves of Northern State University on Sunday, Jan. 17. UIU will then defend Dorman Gym in four straight NSIC duals in Fayette. The home stand begins with the Dragons of Minnesota State University Moorhead on Thursday, Jan. 21. The Peacocks will then welcome the Mavericks of Minnesota State University, Mankato to campus on Thursday, Jan. 28, and the Mustangs of Southwest Minnesota State University the following night, Jan. 29. All three duals are set for 7:00 p,m. starts. The Peacocks will wrap up their home schedule with a Sunday afternoon matinee on Feb. 7 at 2:00 p.m. UIU will line up against the Vikings of Augustana College. Upper Iowa will then wrap up their NSIC schedule on the road at St. Cloud State the following Sunday, Feb. 14. Following the Northern Sun season, Upper Iowa will send 10 wrestlers into competition for the NCAA Super Regional III hosted by Northern State in Aberdeen, S.D. The top four wrestlers in each weight class will earn a spot at the NCAA Championships hosted by the University of Nebraska-Omaha on Mar. 12 and 13.

PHOENIX -- Illinois assistant wrestling coach and former three-time All-American Mike Poeta won the title at 74 kg/163 lbs at the Sunkist Kids International Open freestyle tournament over the weekend. Poeta topped Jon Reader of Iowa State, 1-0, 2-1, in the finals. In addition, freshman Sam White took sixth at 55 kg/121 lbs, falling, 3-0, 3-1, to Mark McKnight, a former Penn State wrestler who placed fourth at the 2008 NCAA Championships. The Illini currently are practicing in preparation for their season-opener at Missouri at 6:30 p.m. on Nov. 12.

Blake Meeks

COLLEGE PARK, Md. -- The University of Maryland wrestling team began the 2009-10 season Saturday afternoon at Comcast Pavilion with the annual Red & Black Wrestle-Offs exhibition, won by the red team, 25-9. A crowd of 428 came out to see the defending Atlantic Coast Conference Champions for the first time this season and the fans were treated to several competitive matches featuring the likes of big-time returnees Alex Krom, Mike Letts, Brian Letters and Patrick Gilmore, as well as several promising newcomers to the program. "It was a good day. Our guys have been waiting for an opportunity to compete in front of our fans," Maryland head coach Kerry McCoy said. "Competing against teammates is always a challenge, but I think they did a good job. I'm excited this part is behind us and we can now look forward to the season." The match began with a tight contest at 125 pounds between James Knox and Pat Strizki. Tied at 2-2 after regulation and the first sudden victory period, each wrestler earned an escape in the tiebreakers sessions. Strizki held the crucial riding-time advantage at the start of the final tiebreaker, but Knox earned an escape and turned the riding time advantage in his favor to earn the victory by the slimmest of margins. Mookie Golden earned a 2-0 decision for black at 133 pounds to knot the match at 3-3. Red and Black alternated the next two weight classes, with Alex Krom earning a 6-1 decision for black at 141 and Jon Kohler getting the three points back for red at 149, topping Chris Stinnett, 11-4. With the score tied at 6 apiece, Red took the next three matches to pull away. Brian Letters earned a 4-2 decision against Kyle John in a very-competitive matchup at 157 pounds. Josh Asper took a 14-3 major decision against Andrik Cruz at 165 and Mike Letts posted an 18-1 technical fall against Owen Smith at 174 pounds to give Red an 18-6 lead in the match. Corey Peltier scored three points for Black at 184 pounds, defeating Bradley Nielson, 3-0. At 197 pounds, freshman Christian Boley notched a late takedown to win a 4-3 decision against sophomore Ryan Gray. Patrick Gilmore capped the afternoon with a 14-3 major decision against Owen Duffy at heavyweight. There were four exhibition matches during the day, as well. Freshman Bryan Osorio defeated fellow freshman Danny O'Malley, 7-3, in a matchup of two 133-pounders. In one of the most entertaining matches of the day, freshmen 149-pounders Justin Cash and Domenic DeRobertis went back and forth at a fast pace, with Cash winning in the end, 12-7. Freshman Jimmy Sheptock defeated Andrew Bradley, 7-3, in another exhibition and freshman Dallas Brown posted the only pin of the day in the last exhibition, doing so in 3 minutes, 58 seconds against Ty Snook. The Terps officially start the regular season Saturday, Nov. 7 at Comcast Pavilion for a tri-meet with Drexel and York College. RED 25, BLACK 9 125 -- James Knox (Red) dec.Pat Strizki, 4-3 [tb2] (3-0) 133 -- Mookie Golden (Black) dec. Joey Boone, 2-0 (3-3) EXH -- Bryan Osorio (Red) dec. Danny O'Malley, 7-3 141 -- Alex Krom (Black) dec. Matt Bogusz, 6-1 (3-6) 149 -- Jon Kohler (Red) dec. Chris Stinnett, 11-4 (6-6) EXH -- Justin Cash (Black) dec. Domenic DeRobertis, 12-7 157 -- Brian Letters (Red) dec. Kyle John, 4-2 (9-6) EXH -- Jimmy Sheptock (Black) dec. Andrew Bradley, 7-3 165 -- Josh Asper (Red) major dec. Andrik Cruz, 14-3 (13-6) 174 -- Mike Letts (Red) tech. fall over Owen Smith, 18-1 [7:00] (18-6) EXH -- Dallas Brown (Black) fall over Ty Snook (3:58) 184 -- Corey Peltier (Black) dec. Bradley Nielson, 3-0 (18-9) 197 -- Christian Boley (Red) dec. Ryan Gray, 4-3 (21-9) HWT -- Patrick Gilmore (Red) major dec. Owen Duffy, 14-3 (25-9)

Two roads diverged in a wood, and I- I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference. -Robert Frost On this particular day, thick snowflakes blanket the woods around Blair Academy, nestled in the foothills of northwestern New Jersey. Mark Grey is a three-time Cadet Nationals champion in Fargo, North Dakota (Photo/Dave Jedlicka/jedicheetah.com)But there's only one road that Mark Grey is currently walking on, the path that winds through the prep school's gorgeous sprawling campus to the brand spanking new wrestling and basketball facility. It's a path he might not have followed had his older brother Mike not first blazed his own trail in the state of New Jersey. Now an All-American wrestler at Cornell, the 141-pound junior went 157-2 at Delbarton School, becoming the first four-time New Jersey state champion in the process. Mark knew that comparisons to his brother's career would be inevitable were he to also attend Delbarton. But he'd been tagging along with Mike to informal sessions at Blair in junior high, and had gotten to known legendary Bucs wrestling coach Jeff Buxton. Once he did well on the entrance exam, Mark decided to trade a green and gray singlet for a navy one instead. "I didn't want to take the same route that my brother did," Mark said. "I wanted to do my own thing, so I went to Blair." No disrespect to Delbarton, but going to Blair upped the ante in terms of competition. Mark's first tournament was the Walsh Ironman; his second, Beast of the East. Talk about putting your feet to the fire. "I think by coming to Blair, it kind of put (the comparisons to Mike) to rest," Coach Buxton said. "He's going about it in a little bit different way (by) wrestling at a school that has a more competitive schedule, so he's in a very different environment than Mike was on a daily basis ... He's set his own accolades and already raised the bar pretty high." It goes without saying that New Jersey has some of the fiercest high school wrestling competition in the country, so the bulls-eye would have been squarely on Mark's back from day one. "With Mike winning four state titles, Mark got to see firsthand the pressure and everything that goes with wrestling in New Jersey," his older brother John Grey Jr. said. "Going to Blair means he's not putting all his eggs into one basket. The schedule is so diverse. There are so many major tournaments that it gives him the opportunity to create his own path and set other goals." Mark GreyOf course, you don't start at a place like Blair as a freshman without coming in highly touted. As the 2008-09 school year began, Mark was fresh off winning a double Cadet national championship in freestyle and Greco-Roman in his first trip to Fargo. In his corner for the tournament were his brother Mike and fellow Pascack Hills alum Cody Cooperman. A vaunted wrestling club in Northern New Jersey whose famed alumni includes current and former All-Americans like Grey, Cooperman, Kurt Backes and Steve Mocco, the Pascack Hills Cowboys were Mark's first introduction to wrestling. He would follow Mike to practice and imitate his moves. Mark finally joined at age four, and wound up winning his first AAU Eastern National championship by five. And he hasn't stopped winning ever since, claiming everything from six Northeast Regional championships to a USA Wrestling Kids Triple Crown. After being a double champion at Fargo, he went 38-1 as a nationally-ranked freshman, winning titles at the prestigious Beast of the East tournament and a National Prep Title at 103 pounds. His only loss came in the finals of his first major tournament, the Walsh Ironman. There he fell by a narrow 6-3 decision to Nick Brascetta of St. Paris Graham. Mark would finish the season ranked No. 2 in the country at 103 pounds by InterMat, second only to Brascetta. Mark Grey won his second Cadet Nationals Greco-Roman title this past summer (Photo/Dave Jedlicka/jedicheetah.com)Now the No. 6-ranked sophomore in the country by InterMat, Mark says his loss was one of inexperience, and he's ready for a rematch. "It was my first major tournament and I was nervous," Mark admits. "I messed up with a dumb headlock in the first period. I really didn't wrestle the way I can." It was that headlock that cost him the match, as Brascetta countered him for an easy takedown, then controlled on top the rest of the match. "He prepares really well, we prepared for this particular kid and he got out of the game plan," Coach Buxton said. "This happens (occasionally) with young kids when they get nervous in the finals of a big tournament, and I think being able to find his groove and stay calm for those big matches will be key down the road." Of course, times have changed and a rematch might not be in the works. Mark bulked up over the summer, wrestled at 112 pounds at Fargo, and is unsure at this point whether he'll move up to wrestle at 119 or 125 for the Bucs this season. He guessed that he might wrestle at 135 by senior year, then eventually end up at 141 or 149 in college. "He's a stronger wrestler physically," said Blair 112-pounder Evan Silver, Mark's teammate and training partner. "We're lifting now and he's really powerful with his takedowns." But with the new season and the added weight will also come additional challenges in the form of better, more experienced competition. "As he moves into 119 or 125, instead of hitting ninth graders, now he's going to be hitting seniors," Coach Buxton said. "That's going to be the biggest adjustment. He's going to hit better guys at those weights because that's where the best guys in the country usually are -- between 119 and 140 pounds." It's said that the transformation from freshman year to sophomore year at Blair is a substantial jump, and a recent practice confirms that. To see Mark Grey practice reveals a focused, confident wrestler who has filled out and looks nothing like the nervous freshman of a year ago. Mark Grey (Photo/Dave Jedlicka/jedicheetah.com)"He's become a lot more explosive," Coach Buxton said. "I'm really excited to watch him wrestle in December because I think he's made such big jumps this year." One thing Mark will not lack in is support. With brother Mike rooting him on from Ithaca and older brother John Jr. on the Bucs coaching staff, there are plenty of people to make sure he stays the course. Not that he needs it. His stated goal since the age of five has been to wrestle in the Olympics, and that has not changed. But for a 16-year-old, Mark Grey has a maturity and patience that belies his years. He understands that it's a long process, a journey that requires discipline and consistent, if not dramatic, improvement on a daily basis. Suffice it to say, the sophomore will experience some growing pains, as the road to wrestling glory is never easy. But when descriptive nouns like "the total package" and "a juggernaut" are thrown around to describe a wrestler still realizing his potential, bright lights wouldn't seem to be too far off.

Event: UFC 104: Machida vs. Shogun Date: October 24, 2009 Venue: Staples Center (Los Angeles, CA) The UFC Monster will be in Las Vegas for tonight’s UFC event. Unfortunately, the event is in Los Angeles, not Las Vegas! However, this did give me a chance to spend a few days shopping the Vegas sportsbooks, and seeing how the action is coming in on the fights. And, as expected, it is coming in strongly on the favorites on a fight card stacked full of one-sided favorites, according to the oddsmakers, who set such odds. On paper, tonight’s fights have clear favorites to win, and decided underdogs to lose. But, as we know, UFC fights are not fought on paper. They are fought in a caged octagon. So, let’s take a look at the matchups, and see if we can have a profitable night. My fictitious bets have made a profit of over $600 to InterMat readers! Let’s keep the winning streak going … The main event pits the undefeated light-heavyweight champion Lyota “Dragon” Machida (15-0) against former Pride champion Mauricio “Shogun” Rua (18-3), once considered the best 205-pounder on the planet. Injuries have hampered Shogun, and his few UFC fights have been less than impressive as he enters the twilight of his career. Machida is a quiet, unassuming athlete, who is about the only fighter in mixed martial arts to center his game around karate. Amazingly, Lyota has not only won all of his fights, with names like BJ Penn, Rich Franklin, Tito Ortiz, Thiago Silva, and Rashad Evans on his resume, but he has NEVER lost a single round in a UFC fight! Now, that’s incredible. He rarely gets hit with his unorthodox style, and his pin-point striking makes him a lethal opponent. Once he has you measured, the fight will soon be over. He is outrageously expensive in a fight like this, but you either bet on him or you don’t bet at all. A bridge jump at -410 may be scary, but it should also land you in the winner’s circle. In a 5-round battle for the belt, Machida will be standing with his hand raised by unanimous decision. Heavyweight Cain Velasquez will put his undefeated 6-0 record on the line against veteran slugger Ben Rothwell (16-4). Velasquez, the former Arizona State All American wrestler, should be able to take Rothwell to the mat. Once there this becomes the classic wrestler vs. striker scenario. We know who wins those encounters, don’t we? Cain will raise cane with some vicious elbows and fists from a full mount position. A bloodied Rothwell will wonder why he joined the UFC. Velasquez at -300 ends this in the first period by TKO. I’m not sure why lightweights Gleison Tibau (29-6) and John “the Dentist” Neer (25-8-1) are on the main card, but the fight promises lots of action. Neer is anxious to redeem himself after an unimpressive loss to Kurt Pelligreno in Philadelphia in August. His under-rated takedown defense and striking power should be the different here, as he wins by knockout in the second round. He is a slight underdog at +105. I’m not sure why the oddsmakers have made “Joe Daddy” Stevenson (35-10) a -250 favorite over Spencer “The King” Fisher (24-2) since Stevenson has lost three of his last four UFC fights. Joe likes to box and trap you into his wicked guillotine chokehold. But, Fisher is a relentless striker who should take advantage of Stevenson’s propensity for bleeding. The refs will have seen enough midway through the third period, calling off the dogs as Fisher advances toward a long awaited title shot that may never happen. I’ll go with Fisher at +200 to surprise the powers to be. The final bout on the main card pits welterweight Anthony Johnson (7-2) against Yoshiyuki “Zenko” Yoshida (11-3). Yoshida will be looking for a mistake to capitalize on as he tries to put a submission hold on his opponent. AJ will be looking for a knock-out with his massive body and punching power. He gets it here in the second round with a thundering uppercut, reminiscent of Mike Tyson’s early days. Somewhat over-priced at -320, Johnson will cash your ticket and reward his faithful fans. Now let’s take a look at the undercard. Undefeated light-heavyweight Ryan “Darth” Bader (10-0) is a bully who should have little trouble controlling Eric “Red” Shafer (13-3-2). He is a better wrestler and much stronger, leaving Shafer’s only hope at victory, his ability to maneuver a submission hold on his bigger opponent. But, don’t rule that out. Shafer has won most of his fights by submission and if he gets lucky here, he could do the same to Bader. But, my money says he won’t, so I’m laying the big number at -500 to see Bader’s streak continue with some brutal ground-and-pound. Two of the world’s best heavyweight kickers meet when Pat Barry (4-1) takes on Antoni Hardonk (8-5). Both will have sore legs tomorrow. Rumor has it that Barry may even have a ground game, but I doubt it. Hardonk has no interest in going to the mat either. This one opened as a pick ‘em, but the public has been betting Hardonk. I’ve found a few books that have it even, so my value goes with Hardonk at -115. The ref stops this midway through the second round when Barry has trouble standing. Middleweights Yushin Okami (24-4) and Chael Sonnen (24-10-1) are both seasoned veterans who are known for their ability to win fights, but not finish their opponents! Half of their fights end in a judge’s decision, and that makes them unpopular with most UFC fans (and Dana White for that matter). Therefore, the loser here may be on the outside looking in. Sonnen’s ability to defend Okami’s clinching and grabbing style will determine who wins this one. As a +200 underdog the value lies with Chael. In yet another judge’s decision he will have his hand raised at the end. He has won 13 of his 14 fights won by decision. Add another to his belt. Two more middleweight veterans meet when the popular Jorge “El Conquistador” Rivera (16-7) takes on Rob “The Rosedale Reaper” Kimmons (22-4) in another interesting fight. In what could be the fight of the night, both like to stand and punch and neither has a glass jaw, tho’ Rivera has been caught early before (see Terry Martin for details). I’m of the opinion that Jorge’s better fight days are behind him. I’ll try my luck with the heavily tattoo’ed Kimmon’s to win by third round TKO. The betting action is coming in on Kimmons, and the -150 price tag should prevail. Kyle Kingsbury (7-2-1) at -115 will eke out a decision over Razak “Razor” Al-Hassen (7-1) And 6’11” Stefan Struve (21-3) will prove to be no match for Chase Gormley (6-0), who opened at +200, but is currently at -200! So let’s see how we do with our fictitious $1000 bankroll tonight: Let’s lay $123 to win $30 on the Dragon, Lyota Machida. Let’s lay $150 to win $50 on Cain Velasquez. Let’s lay $50 to win $100 on Spencer Fisher. Let’s lay $96 to win $30 on Anthony Johnson. Let’s lay $40 to win $42 on Josh Neer. Let’s lay $150 to win $30 on Ryan Bader. Let’s lay $92 to win $80 on Antoni Hardonk. Let’s lay $50 to win $110 0n Cael Sonnen. Let’s lay $75 to win $50 on Rob Kimmons. Let’s lay $69 to win $60 on Kyle Kingsbury. Let’s lay $100 to win $50 on Chase Gormley. In all we are risking $995 to win $632. The cocktail waitress gets a $5 tip. That’s 7 favorites and 3 underdogs with one pick’em. Good luck and enjoy the fights. I know I will. And, don’t forget to give a large portion of your profits to your local youth wrestling program, where future champs are made! Fantastic Five: Five fighters who had wrestling success Tony Nguyen Many of the fighters competing tonight have had some sort of wrestling background. Let’s take a look at five fighters who had collegiate wrestling success. We begin with the co-main event: Cain Velasquez squares off with “Big” Ben Rothwell. Cain Velasquez was an NJCAA champion at Iowa Central Community College and then went on to become a two-time All-American at Arizona State. He’s an undefeated fighter whose climb up the heavyweight ladder has been meteoric. His last win against kickboxing monster Cheick Congo put him within two fights of a title shot. Against Congo, when Velasquez got in trouble early, taking poor angles, and getting hit, he went back to his wrestling and controlled the fight on the ground. Let’s see if he’s improved his standup since his last outing. Ben Rothwell was the IFL’s No. 1 contender and one of their best fighters. He has a victory over former UFC champ Ricco Rodriquez. In the Affliction league, he lost a tough battle against former UFC champion Andre Arlovski. He’s a serious test for Cain Velasquez, and a battle-tested veteran. The winner of this fight is a fight away from fighting for the belt against Brock Lesnar. Another former wrestler on the main event card is Anthony Johnson. He’s quickly rising as one of the UFC’s most exciting welterweights. His devastating knockouts of Tommy Speers, Kevin Burns, and Luigi Fioravanti have fans clamoring for more of the man they call“Rumble.” What fans might not know is that Johnson was a successful wrestler at Lassen Community College. He uses his wrestling background to defend takedowns and throw his powerful strikes. He faces a man that wants nothing more than to take him down … in Yoshiyuki Yoshida, a judo expert and former judo Olympian. Yoshida will want to clinch and take this fight to the mat, and avoid the striking of Johnson. This is an interesting fight as styles make fights. If Johnson keeps it standing, it’s only a matter of time before he connects and hurts Yoshida. If Yoshida can get this fight to the mat, he could win via decision. You don’t want to miss this fight. Ryan Bader, a two-time NCAA all American and reality TV superstar, is fighting Eric Schafer on the undercard. The bout, based mostly on Bader’s popularity, is going to be aired live on Spike TV. Bader is known in wrestling circles for his wrestling accomplishments at Arizona State University. He’s extremely popular since winning a season on Spike TV’s reality TV show, and is now a fan favorite. He trains alongside many great former All-American wrestlers turned MMA fighters such as C. B. Dollaway, Aaron Simpson, and Ben Askren at Arizona Combat Sports. His last win against Carmelo Marrero was solid, but not spectacular, and now makes a jump in competition against Schafer. Eric Schafer is a submission specialist that has solid wins against Houston Alexander and Antonio Mendes. He will have his chances if Bader takes him to the mat, but in the end, it’s a tough road. Bader is the stronger puncher and can take Schafer down at will. Schafer has to hope for a submission to win this fight. Chael Sonnen is also on the undercard and is facing Yushin Okami, one of four fighters that has a victory against current middleweight king, Anderson Silva. Sonnen wrestled at the University of Oregon and was a very accomplished Greco-Roman wrestler as well. He was the top middleweight in the WEC before arriving as a serious contender in the UFC. Okami is Japan’s top middleweight. He has a great clinch game and wins most of his fights by clinch, using his physical strength and striking. Okami is 7-1 in the UFC and the winner of this fight moves into the top two or three as a contender for a title shot. This will be a battle of equal fighters. I believe that whichever fighter can dictate the rhythm and impose his “will,” will win the fight. This one is too close to call! Chase Gormley is a big heavyweight at 6-3, 265 pounds. This former wrestler is also sporting a perfect 6-0 MMA record and looking to make a splash in his UFC debut. Chase was an NAIA All-American wrestler at both Montana State Northern University and Lindenwood University. He is fighting Steven Struve, who is a lanky 6-11, 238-pound fighter out of Holland, has the look of a basketball player, but is a submission specialist. He also is 1-1 in the UFC and 17-3 overall. Struve will want to submit Gormley in any way possible. Gormley will have to negotiate the long reach and lanky frame of Struve. He must be cautious of taking Steven down and work solid footwork in his standup and apply some ground and pound. Should be a fun fight. You can follow Tony Nguyen on Twitter at http://twitter.com/TonyNguyenMMA.

TDR this week will be LIVE from the home based Brute Adidas studios of TDR for the final time before hitting the road for several weeks of room shows. The season is almost upon us and we look forward to our visits around the country. A complete and evolving schedule will be posted soon on the Takedownradio.com web site. The big news for us this week is that next weeks TDR TV will be on TV. Mediacom in Iowa and surrounding areas will air TDR TV on a weekly basis on its MC 22 channel. Thanks to our friends at Mediacom for their belief in wrestling. Tune and watch. This week on TDR: Chris Ayers- Head Coach of the Princeton Tigers joins us to discuss prep for the season and his new freshmen. Tim Flynn- Head Coach of Edinboro. With a number of elite wrestlers ranked highly, it is apparent that Flynn's squad is highly respected Dr. William K. Bauer- Writer, teacher and good guy penned the book, "Wrestling: A Boys First Book" Joe McFarland- A new Home for the Wolverines of Michigan, a heck of a good incoming class and some seniors looking to make their marks. Mychal Grenawalt- Matside Michigan, the Radio Show returns to the air with some of the best youth, high school and collegiate wrestling in the state of Michigan on Supertalk 1570 and others as well as http://supertalk1570.com Emily Klinefelter- 13 national titles and two Gold Medals from the Pan Am Games in Brazil. She has fought all over the world and owns a 5-0 MMA record, and 6-0 pro boxing record. November 13th she will face Nately Jerez at Max Fights DM: Ballroom Brawl Missed an episode of TDR? Now You can get TDR on your PDA or iPhone at Lightsout.tv and at iTunes Please note that Episode 28 of TDR TV is now up on all the top web sites around the country and is available for your viewing. TDR every week! It's appointment Radio! 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. We air 9 AM to 11 AM CST every Saturday morning and look forward to having you listen in.

VIENNA, WV -- The Ohio Valley University Athletic Department announced this week that it will add wrestling as a new varsity sport to its program roster during the 2010-2011 academic year. The Fighting Scots have also announced that they’ve signed Pat Sole to serve as head coach of the new program. “At OVU we are really striving to have more impact in the local community. Next to football, wrestling is one of the most loved and fan supported sports in the local area. This is a hot bed for wrestling talent. The new program will serve to increase our overall visibility in the community,” OVU Athletic Director Larry Lyons said. “We want the community to really feel that OVU is their team and want them to be excited about what we’re doing and come out and support our teams.” It doesn’t go unnoticed that OVU has recruited one of the most decorated wrestling coaches in the state. Coach Pat Sole is no stranger to the Mid-Ohio Valley or winning. A native of Parkersburg, Sole spent the better part of his coaching career at Parkersburg South High School (PSHS) where he helped guide the program to 10 state titles and three runner-up finishes. During his tenure at PSHS he also coached seven high school All-Americans with 11 of his wrestlers going on to the NCAA Division I collegiate competition level (four went on to the NCAA Division I National Championships). Following 18 years of success at PSHS, Sole returned to his Alma Mater, Liberty University, to help reinstate the university’s wrestling program. While there the program won the East Region Conference NCAA Division I Championship title in 2007, 2008 and 2009. Fourteen of his wrestlers went on to compete in the NCAA Division I National Championships. “I’m honored to establish something in the valley that is much needed and happening elsewhere in the country with Division II colleges/universities. We have great talent here locally when it comes to wrestling and those student-athletes deserve the opportunity to stay local on a collegiate level and compete,” Coach Pat Sole said. “I’m excited to see OVU open its doors and sponsor this sport. It will benefit them, the community and state.” “OVU is a faith based institution and to have the opportunity to make an impact with young men and expose or encourage them in their Christian faith is important to me. Coaching at OVU will allow us to not only build up young men physically and academically, but spiritually as well,” Sole continued. “It was very clear to us that Coach Sole shares OVU’s Christian values and wants to work with us in transforming lives in a Christian atmosphere and academic community,” Lyons said. “The way this program has come about and having Pat serve as its leader…is nothing short of spectacular. We are very excited to have him part of our family and look forward to the enthusiasm and dedication he will bring to our student-athletes.” Lyons noted that the West Virginia Intercollegiate Athletic Conference does not currently include wrestling as a conference sport but that a number of schools within the region (West Virginia, Ohio and Pennsylvania) do offer the varsity sport and finding strong competition will not be difficult. Lyons went on to say that Coach Sole has already begun working on a schedule and will begin recruiting immediately for the program. To learn more about OVU sports, visit http://www.ovu.edu/athletics

Dave Barker & Sara Koenig

The USA Wrestling Preseason Nationals return for a second edition on October 31. The event has moved locations from Veterans Auditorium in Des Moines, Iowa to the UNI-Dome in Cedar Falls, Iowa on the campus of the University of Northern Iowa. Currently over 500 high school wrestlers have decided to spend their Halloween on the mats seeking the treat of a Preseason Nationals title. Based on the trend of last year, Tournament Director Brian Keck hopes that "the field will approach 1,000 wrestlers in all." The following is an analysis of the field as it is presently constructed on Thursday evening October 22, 2009. Registration will remain open until midnight October 27. For further information, check out http://www.preseasonnationals.com 103: This opening weight is anchored by the excellent junior Ruben Navejas (Kentwood, WA). This past summer, Navejas was a finalist in both styles at Junior Nationals in Fargo, North Dakota; and was champion in the freestyle competition. In addition, he finished 2008-09 ranked 13th by InterMat at 103 pounds after a state championship season. However, standing in the way of a Preseason Nationals title will be at least six other excellent wrestlers. Two of these young men were All-Americans in both styles in the Cadet Nationals 91-pound weight class. Colton Howell (Ozark, MO) won the Greco-Roman tournament, and was also a state runner-up during the 2008-09 regular season. Phillip Laux (Pekin, IA) was a runner-up in the freestyle competition, and also earned All-American honors in both styles at the FILA Cadet Nationals this past spring. Another pair of wrestlers earned All-American status in both styles at the Junior Nationals. Kevon Powell (Montini Catholic, IL) was fourth place at 105 pounds in Greco-Roman and at 98 pounds in freestyle. In addition, Powell finished third in his in-season state tournament and was a FILA Cadet Nationals freestyle runner-up. Mike Dauterive (McKinney Boyd, TX) was a state tournament qualifier in 2008-09 and finished third at 98 pounds in both freestyle and Greco-Roman this past summer. The other duo of wrestlers was Cadet Nationals freestyle All-Americans. Sophomore Mason Todd (Pendleton Heights, IN) was a state qualifier in 2008-09 and finished seventh at 105 pounds this past summer. Freshman Colby Knight (Urbandale, IA) was fifth at 98 pounds. 112: Junior Nationals folkstyle champion Hayden Zilmer (Crosby-Ironton, MN) leads the way in this weight class. After winning Cadet Nationals titles in freestyle and Greco-Roman during the summer of 2008, Zilmer finished 2008-09 ranked 11th by InterMat at 103 pounds after closing out a state championship season. Right behind Zilmer is Jack Hathaway (Iowa City West, IA) who was able to follow up a third-place finish in his 2008-09 state tournament with a fourth-place finish in freestyle at the FILA Cadet Nationals and Junior Nationals All-American honors in both Greco-Roman and freestyle at 105 pounds. This included a runner-up finish in the freestyle competition. Also meriting attention in this weight class is a trio of Cadet Nationals Greco-Roman All-Americans. Dylon Thompson (Grand Junction, CO) finished third at 98 pounds, after finishing runner-up in both freestyle and Greco-Roman at 84 pounds in the 2008 Cadet Nationals. Ryan McQuade (Appleton West, WI) finished fourth place at 112 pounds. Alex Calandrino (Howell, MI) was sixth at 105 pounds to follow a regular season in which he finished as state runner-up. Another pair of wrestlers to watch are state champion senior Alex Spooner (Forest City, IA) and freshman Cain Salas (Mout Olive, IL), who was 5-2 at 119 pounds in freestyle at Cadet Nationals this past summer. 119: After winning the inaugural Preseason Nationals at 112 pounds, senior Brandon Jones (West Des Moines Valley, IA) earned a state title with an upset victory against Eric Devos (Waverly Shell-Rock, IA), who had won titles for Apple Valley High School in Minnesota as a seventh and eighth grader the previous two years. Jones is the early favorite to earn a second Preseason Nationals title from this weight class. Leading the group of challengers is Courtland Hacker (Broomfield, CO), who finished as a state runner-up this past season but was Cadet Nationals freestyle All-American this past summer finishing seventh at 112 pounds. Others to watch include state champion Nick Harrison (Stillman Valley, IL); Sam Jones (Riverside Academy, LA), a FILA Cadet Nationals Greco-Roman All-American; senior A.J. Juarez (Joliet Township, IL), fourth in the state as a freshman but yet to place at state since; and sophomore Travis Leiskau (Klein Oak, TX), third at his state tournament and fifth at the NHSCA Freshman Nationals. 125: A pair of Iowa state champions from 2008-09 at 119 pounds lead the way in this weight class. Senior Levi Wolfensperger (Denver-Tripoli, IA) was champion of the medium-school division, and also won the NHSCA Junior Nationals at 125 pounds one month later. Wolfensperger ended 2008-09 ranked 11th by InterMat at 119 pounds, and is currently ranked 30th among all members of the Class of 2010. Sophomore John Meeks (Des Moines Roosevelt, IA) won the big-school division, and is ranked 10th overall in the Class of 2012. Also competing in this weight is a former state champion Adam Perrin (North Scott, IA), who finished third last season at state. Nick Babcock (Broomfield, CO) placed fourth at 103 pounds in the December 2008 Walsh Ironman, and finished as a state runner-up at the end of 2008-09. Another state runner-up in this weight class is Logan Arlis (Batavia, IL). Joseph Hefley (Oviedo, FL) finished was a state qualifier this past season and finished sixth in Greco-Roman at Cadet Nationals this past summer. 130: The favorite in this weight class is two-time state finalist Bronson Steuber (Jackson County Central, MN). Steuber was able to win state at 119 pounds this past season after taking second at 103 the year before. Also, this past April, he was champion in the Junior Nationals folkstyle competition. Next best in this field is fellow junior Jordan Rinken (Waverly Shell-Rock, IA), a two-time state placer that took second place in the 2008-09 state tournament. Two other wrestlers to watch are a pair of fourth place finishers in their respective state tournaments this past season -- Chad Ryan (Sioux City North, IA) and Taylor Simaz (Allegan, MI). 135: Three outstanding wrestlers headline this weight class. However, the "lead dog" would be Louis Trujillo (Rio Rancho, NM). Trujillo was a state champion and NHSCA Junior Nationals champion this past season, and ended the season ranked sixth at 130 pounds by InterMat. This summer, Trujillo was a Junior Nationals freestyle All-American, finishing seventh at 125 pounds. Currently he is ranked 15th overall in the Class of 2010. Coming off of two consecutive fourth places at 125 pounds in the Illinois state tournament, Chris Dardanes (Oak Park River Forest, IL) earned All-American honors at Junior Nationals in Fargo, ND. In an ironic twist of sorts, Dardanes again finished fourth in the 130-pound freestyle competition. Also in this weight is state runner-up Jake Sueflohn (Arrowhead, WI), who lost to Jesse Thielke (Germantown, WI) in the state final despite having upset him the week prior. 140: The favorite in this weight class is Nick Dardanes (Oak Park River Forest, IL). Following an outstanding 2008-09 season in which he was state champion, and closed out the season ranked 11th by InterMat at 130 pounds; his off-season was equally superb. Dardanes was fourth place in the FILA Junior Nationals freestyle competition at 132 pounds, and a Junior Nationals freestyle runner-up at 130 pounds. He heads into this season ranked 20th overall in the Class of 2010. The lead challenger for Dardanes in this weight class will be Alex Dieringer (Port Washington, WI) -- a Cadet Nationals champion in both freestyle and Greco-Roman this past summer. With state finals appearances in his first two scholastic seasons, including a title as a freshman in 2008, Dieringer currently ranked 23rd overall in the Class of 2011. Other wrestlers to watch in this weight class include senior Matt Leibforth (Lemont, IL), third at state and eight at the NHSCA Junior Nationals; freshman Zane Nelson (Tuslaw, OH), finishing fourth at 130 pounds in the Cadet Nationals freestyle tournament; and junior Austin Wilson (Hastings St. Cecilia, NE), a state champion and NHSCA Sophomore Nationals sixth-place finisher. 145: On the surface, this seems to be a rather thin weight class, which means that it is ripe for relatively unknown wrestlers to make themselves visible to the general public. Possibly the most credentialed wrestler in this field would be junior D.J. Beauch (Toledo Central Catholic, OH). Beauch was a state qualifier this past scholastic season, but followed that up with All-American finishes in both Greco-Roman and freestyle at the Cadet Nationals. Also in this field is University of Virginia verbal commit Tanner Hirstine (Cherry Creek, CO), who finished fourth in his state tournament during 2008-09. 152: This is another weight class where there are opportunities abound for relatively unproven commodities on the national level. However, it is a pair of wrestlers from the Land of Lincoln that headline the field. A strong favorite in this weight class would be Joey Moorhouse (Marengo, IL). This past summer Moorhouse was third in the Junior Nationals Greco-Roman competition after finishing third at state during the scholastic season. Also in this weight is Joe Brewster (Maine South, IL), a Cadet Nationals Greco-Roman All-American in 2008. 160: The favorite in this weight class is senior Joe Latham (Bismarck, ND), a state champion during the 2008-09 season and a fifth-place finisher at the NHSCA Junior Nationals. While there doesn't seem to be a strong challenger to Latham, there are three wrestlers that seem relatively even, but ahead of the rest of the field. Despite failing to place at state this past season, Sam Brooks (Oak Park River Forest, IL) is one of the nation's best wrestlers in the Class of 2012 (ranked 38th by InterMat). Brooks was a runner-up in both Greco-Roman and freestyle at the Cadet Nationals, and a FILA Cadet Nationals champion in Greco-Roman. Junior Steven Keogh (Apple Valley, MN) was a state runner-up in 2008-09 while competing at lower-division Thief River Falls, and finished as a champion at the NHSCA Sophomore Nationals. Senior Robert Pickrell (Northridge, CO) was a state champion this past season after earning All-American honors in 2008 at the Cadet Nationals freestyle tournament. Also meriting mention in this weight class is Logan Molina (Lincoln Northeast, NE), who finished fourth in the Cadet Nationals freestyle competition 171: Two wrestlers stand out above the rest in this weight class. Despite failing to place at state this past year, after finishing third in 2008, Walt Gilmor (North Scott, IA) earned All-American honors at Junior Nationals this past summer in Fargo, ND; he finished seventh at 171 pounds in freestyle. Noah Budi (Kaukauna, WI) was a state champion this past season. Two others to watch are Mike Khoury (St Joseph Regional, NJ) and Geordan Speiller (St Thomas Aquinas, FL). Khoury was a state qualifier this past season and a NHSCA Sophomore Nationals All-American in 2008. Speiller was also a state qualifier this past season, and fifth in Greco-Roman at Cadet Nationals this past summer. 189: This weight could be an open competition among three different wrestlers for the title. Senior Ben Brooks (Oak Park River Forest, IL) was a state qualifier this past season, and was an All-American in both Greco-Roman and freestyle at the FILA Cadet Nationals; Brooks was the champion in Greco-Roman. John Rizgallah (Allegan, MI) was a state runner-up, finished fourth at the Junior Nationals folkstyle tournament, and earned a silver medal in the AAU Scholastic (Disney) Duals. Jay Taylor (Oviedo, FL) was also a state runner-up in 2008-09, and he earned All-American honors at FILA Cadet Nationals in both Greco-Roman and freestyle. Also present in this weight is Zack Rutt (Le Center, MN). Rutt was a state qualifier this past season, but followed that up in the off-season with runner-up finishes in Cadet folkstyle and Greco-Roman. 215: State champion and Disney Duals silver medalist Nick McDiarmid (Hartland, MI) is the favorite in this weight class; however, he will face two pretty strong challengers in Cody Krumwiede (Waverly Shell-Rock, IA) and Matt Tourdot (Sparta, WI). Krumwiede earned a state title this past season and was runner-up at FILA Cadet Nationals in freestyle. Tourdot was a Junior Nationals freestyle All-American, finishing sixth at 215 pounds. 285: As of present, the closing weight class has no defined favorites or lead contenders. It is rife for the taking by any wrestlers willing to participate in the tournament and bring their "A" wrestling game.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- With seven ranked individuals, including the defending national champion at 184 pounds, Southern Oregon lands as the No. 1 team in the preseason NAIA Wrestling Coaches' Top 20 Poll, the NAIA announced Wednesday. The Raiders earned 100.5 points. Notre Dame College (Ohio) is listed second with 98 points, followed by No. 3 McKendree University (Ill.), No. 4 University of Great Falls (Mont.) and No. 5 Grand View University (Iowa). Lindenwood (Mo.) was the top-ranked team heading into the 2008-09 season and went on to win its third national title. As the No. 1 to close out the 2008-09 campaign, Southern Oregon finished as the runner-up at the National Championships. Five individual national champs from a year ago will return to defend their title in 2010 and enter the season rated No. 1 in their respective weight classes: Adam Koballa of Notre Dame (Ohio) at 141 pounds, Grand View's (Iowa) Matt Burns at 149 and Chris Platt of Southern Oregon at 184. McKendree sports a pair of titlists that are ranked No. 1 in Aaron Winning at 165 pounds and Andrew Sanchez at 197. Of Southern Oregon's seven nationally ranked grapplers, four are returning All-Americans, including top-ranked 125-pounder Mitchell Lofstedt and heavyweight John Bates. A third-place finisher a year ago, Barry Johnson is listed second at 141 pounds and Tommie Norton is ranked second at 157 pounds following a fifth-place showing in 2009. Five defending national champions begin the season ranked No. 1Second-ranked Notre Dame and No. 8 Dana (Neb.) each have nine wrestlers garnering national ranking. Notre Dame brings back two additional All-Americans to Koballa with No. 1 Thomas Straughn at 157 pounds and second-ranked 125-pounder Tyler Savage. Dana's highest ranked wrestler is Robert Costa at No. 4 at 133 pounds. No. 3 McKendree (89 points) and No. 4 Great Falls (78.5 points) each have seven nationally-ranked grapplers and No. 5 Grand View (69 points) has six. Three-time defending national team champion Lindenwood is ranked sixth with six ranked wrestlers. The first regular-season poll will be announced on Nov. 24. Team Rankings: 1 Southern Oregon University 100.5 2 Notre Dame College (Ohio) 98 3 McKendree University (Ill.) 89 4 University of Great Falls (Mont.) 77.5 5 Grand View University (Iowa) 69 6 Lindenwood University (Mo.) 61 7 California Baptist University 58 8 Dana College (Neb.) 57.5 9 Campbellsville (Ky.) 45 10 Dickinson State (N.D.) 38.5 10 Embry-Riddle Aeronautical (Ariz.) 38.5 12 Montana State University-Northern 37.5 13 Missouri Baptist University 37 14 Oklahoma City University 30.5 14 Cumberland University (Tenn.) 30.5 16 Menlo College (Calif.) 22 17 Morningside College (Iowa) 19 18 Northwestern College (Iowa) 18 19 Dakota Wesleyan (S.D.) 17.5 20 University of the Cumberlands (Ky.) 13.5 20 Waldorf College (Iowa) 13.5 Others receiving votes: Jamestown College (N.D.) 10; Hastings College (Neb.) 9.5; William Penn University (Iowa) 8.5; York College (Neb.) 2.5. Individual Rankings: 125: 1 Mitchell Lofstedt Southern Oregon University 2 Tyler Savage Notre Dame College 3 Dante Rini Notre Dame College 4 Cody Dennis Morningside College 5 Angel Olea Dickinson State 6 Clayden McKim Dana College 7 Kyle Conley Dana College 8 Larone Madison University of the Cumberlands 9 Jarrod Wiens Hastings College 10 Taylor Louie William Penn University 11 Chauncey Philipps California Baptist University 12 Jason Moorhouse Menlo College 133: 1 Wade Lowe McKendree University 2 Ryan Luu Embry-Riddle Aeronautical 3 Tommy Pretty Campbellsville 4 Robert Costa Dana College 5 John Rojas California Baptist University 6 Travis Evans Grand View University 7 Matthew Jacobson Dana College 8 Anton Prater Missouri Baptist University 9 Malik Stewart Dakota Wesleyan 10 Eric Garcia Menlo College 11 Blake Hunter Dickinson State 12 David Crow William Penn University 141 141: 1 Adam Koballa Notre Dame College 2 Barry Johnson Southern Oregon University 3 Jordan Harer Dakota Wesleyan 4 Christian Martinez Menlo College 5 Michael Davis Cumberland University 6 Jason Costello University of Great Falls 7 Kyle Williams McKendree University 8 Adam Manz Dana College 9 Jacob Murton Campbellsville 10 Nathen Schweitzer Dickinson State 11 Jeff Steele University of the Cumberlands 12 Dustin Howa William Penn University 149: 1 Matt Burns Grand View University 2 Samuel Schmitz Lindenwood University 3 Jeffrey Pelton Notre Dame College 4 Tyler Chang Embry-Riddle Aeronautical 5 Byron Kuylen University of Great Falls 6 Levi Price Northwestern College 7 Andrew Carrillo Dana College 8 Tim McGoldrick Lindenwood University 9 Jeff Marval Waldorf College 10 Benjamin Garcia California Baptist University 11 Brad Cusatis Hastings College 12 Matt Pridgeon Dickinson State 157: 1 Thomas Straughn Notre Dame College 2 Tommie Norton/Hooper Southern Oregon University 3 Nikolas Turner Oklahoma City University 4 Ross Mosher University of Great Falls 5 Trace Billet Embry-Riddle Aeronautical 6 Brain Oeschner Lindenwood University 7 Josh Emmett Menlo College 8 Ben Knight Morningside College 9 James Casadaban Cumberland University 10 Jeremy Padilla Waldorf College 11 Josh Swanson William Penn University 12 David Razo California Baptist University 165: 1 Aaron Winning McKendree University 2 John Murray Lindenwood University 3 Lamar Reed California Baptist University 4 Chris Chionuma Lindenwood University 5 James Linker Campbellsville 5 Brad Lower Grand View University 7 Ryan Tuzon Dana College 8 Brandon Porter Waldorf College 9 David Dwyer McKendree University 10 Kris Spencer Southern Oregon University 11 Nick Zumwalt Dickinson State 12 Mark Meyer Oklahoma City University 174: 1 Brendon DeCock University of Great Falls 2 Austin Ouellette Montana State University-Northern 3 Christopher Knowland California Baptist University 4 Glenn Rhees Grand View University 5 Kurt Wolff Notre Dame College 6 Cameron Schrempp Dickinson State 7 Damion Stephenson University of the Cumberlands 8 Jameon Rush Hastings College 9 Jason Pence University of Great Falls 10 Adam Houser Grand View University 11 Phillip Oudhuis Campbellsville 12 Donald Woods Lindenwood University 184: 1 Chris Platt Southern Oregon University 2 Evan Hinebaugh Montana State University-Northern 3 Michael French University of Great Falls 4 Spencer Adams Campbellsville 5 Enock Francois California Baptist University 6 Jacob Oberfoell Missouri Baptist University 7 Tanner Wolk McKendree University 8 Jordan Powers Cumberland University 9 Mark Peiffer Dana College 10 Adam Herrick Waldorf College 11 Josh Geppert Dakota Wesleyan 12 Alex Denman Notre Dame College 197: 1 Andrew Sanchez McKendree University 2 Justin Rau Grand View University 3 Jake Kallestad Dickinson State 4 Ike Okenwa Missouri Baptist University 5 Alex Calvi University of Great Falls 6 Nicholas Leither Northwestern College 7 Ronald Lee Southern Oregon University 8 Evan Mattingly Montana State University-Northern 9 Derek Foore Notre Dame College 10 Karl Spain William Penn University 11 Jeff Roman Waldorf College 12 Joseph Lockett Morningside College 285: 1 John Bates Southern Oregon University 2 Corey Johnson Oklahoma City University 3 Cedric Powell McKendree University 4 Byron Stewart Cumberland University 5 Michael Wakim Missouri Baptist University 6 Willie Hernandez Jamestown College 7 Joshua Marquez California Baptist University 8 David Coffey Campbellsville 9 Jason Lloyd York College 10 Jonathan Wilbourne Dana College 11 Orlando Scales Notre Dame College 12 Willie Wiggins Lindenwood University 12 Aaron Field Jamestown College

Vince Silva

Frank Popolizio

Wade Schalles

B.J. Suitor

Jarad Swint

Sean Boylan

Mike Duroe

J Robinson and the University of Minnesota wrestling staff will host their 2009 coaches clinic on Oct. 30, 2009. This year's program will include Bill Zadick, Rod Olson and Tim Hartung. Zadick was World Champion in 2006 after claiming both NCAA and Big Ten Championships. A four-time state champion in high school, he was twice a NCAA All-American. Olson is a former NCAA Division I Football coach and founder of the Coaches of Excellence Institute. A Minnesota native, he is also the author of the Legacy Builder Series. Hartung is one of the all-time greats in the history of Gopher Wrestling. He was J Robinson's first two-time NCAA Champion, and was a three-time Big Ten Champion. Also a three-time All-American, he was a member of the 2002 World Team. The Clinic is schedule to begin at 12:00 p.m. on Oct. 30, and registration is due by Oct. 27. For more information please contact Mack Reiter at reit0125@umn.edu or 612-626-7697.

The 3rd Annual Hudson River Fall Wrestling Clinic is set for Sunday, November 1 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Stevens Institute in Hoboken, New Jersey. The clinic will be followed by Stevens Institute team wrestle-offs at 4 p.m. Clinicians: Jerry Rinaldi, Two-time NCAA All-American at Cornell CJ Ettelson, Four-time Iowa state champ, four-time NCAA qualifier at UNI Max Meltzer, All-American at Harvard Matt Palmer, All-American at Columbia John Manarte, Stevens Assistant and NCAA qualifier at Hofstra Mike Clayton, Stevens Head Coach, 2008 NCAA Rookie Coach of the Year & NCAA qualifier at Navy The cost is $35 for wrestlers (includes free t-shirt) and free for parents and coaches.

Head coach Duane Goldman enters the his 18th season at the helm of the IU wrestling program with a large amount of ammo returning from last season's squad which finished 24th at the NCAA's. Seven former NCAA Qualifiers will don the Cream and Crimson for the 2009-10 season, including two big bullets in former All-Americans Angel Escobedo and Matt Coughlin. 125 POUNDS There is little doubt who will man the 125-lbs. slot for Indiana this season as three-time All-American and 2008 National Champion Angel Escobedo returns for his senior season. Following successful offseason surgery to repair his shoulder which forced him to wear a harness for much of last year, he looks to capture his second NCAA title in `10 and become the first four-time All-American in IU history. "Angel is really looking forward to his senior year," said Goldman. "He has a tough weight class coming back with the defending national champion returning, but he expects to regain his spot on top of the awards stand." Another fifth-year senior in Wesley Fike is prepared to fill-in at 125 pounds if needed. Fike has seen some action in the line-up at both 125 and 133 pounds, winning all three contests in the dual-match line-up. He was also the Hoosiers' 125-pound representative at last season's Las Vegas Open. Justin Brooks rounds out the 125-lbs. class. 133 POUNDS Redshirt sophomore Matt Ortega had a strong-hold on the 133-pound weight class a year ago and this season looks to be no different. Ortega, a four-time New Mexico state champion, is a bonus point-producing machine. Sixteen of his 23 wins garnered the extra points, including six major decisions and 10 pins. Geno Capezio provides quality depth in the weight class, coming off a 12-win redshirt season that saw him place in two tournmaments. "Matt gained a lot of starting experience as a freshman that should benefit him greatly this season," said Goldman. "Geno wrestled well in his redshirt competitions, and will really push Matt." 141 POUNDS This is arguably the most wide-open weight class for Indiana heading into the season. A three-man race comprising of freshmen Danny Monaco, Nick Viterisi and Max Ortega will battle it out for time in the line-up. Monaco and Viterisi are redshirt frosh while Ortega begins his first season on the Bloomington campus. Ortega is a five-time state champion from New Mexico and the younger brother of Matt Ortega. "We are going to be a little inexperienced at this weight in terms of varsity action," said Goldman. "But all three have extensive mat time competing in elite tournaments throughout their prep careers. We expect to be very competitive at 141, if not right away, then certainly down the line." 149 POUNDS Redshirt junior Alex Warren is expected to be at 149 pounds early on before fighting to keep his spot in the line-up once the 157-lbs. representative is decided. Warren has cracked the line-up before, winning five of six dual matches. "Alex has a lot of potential there having been an Indiana state champion," said Goldman. Sophomore Jacob Smith is also in the mix at 149 pounds. 157 POUNDS The talent crop at 157 pounds is plentiful, highlighted by the colossal clash between two-time NCAA qualifers Kurt Kinser and Matt Coughlin. Kinser's 18 pins in 2008 are the second most in school history while Coughlin made his way to the All-American stand in 2007, placing seventh at 149 lbs. Each will start the season at 157 lbs. with one dropping to 149 before Big Ten action begins. "They both need to find a way into the line-up," said Goldman. "There is no doubt that they are going to have to earn their way into the line-up this season. It's going to be interesting to see how it all shakes out." Coach Goldman has three additional 157-pound options at his disposal as well. Redshirt freshman Ryan Konz is expected to push the action in that weight while true freshmen Anthony Fretwell and Ross Powell provide increased depth. Konz is a very skilled wrestler out of Tennessee. Fretwell holds the national prep record for most pins in a single season with 68 falls. 165 POUNDS Paul Young cemented himself at 165 lbs. with his strong sophomore campaign a year ago. One of three Bloomington H.S. South products on the roster, Young was the Vito Maurici Leadership Award honoree last season and has flashed noticeable offseason improvements on the mat during early practices. "Paul has set some very high goals for himself," said Goldman. "He really wants to get himself in that All-America contingent, and he has the ability to do just that." Ryan LeBlanc, a top-50 recruit nationally, will like redshirt in 2009-10, but has the necessary skills to fill-in if something were to happen to Young. 174 POUNDS Trevor Perry is set for his fourth consecutive year as Indiana's starter at 174 pounds. He is a three-time NCAA Qualifier, reaching the round of 12 at last season's national tournament. Perry has racked up 24 pins and is tied for 10th on the all-time career pins list heading into his fourth and final season as a Hoosier. "Trevor was so close to stepping on that All-American stand last year, losing a tight match" said Goldman. "He is dedicated to capping off his senior year as an All-American." True freshman Bryce Grimes is an Indiana state runner-up and will join Perry at 174 lbs. 184 POUNDS Indiana's "Most Improved Wrestler" a year ago, Eric Cameron returns at the 184-pound weight class, a starting slot he earned late in the season and converted into a trip to the NCAA's after placing sixth at the Big Ten Championships. Fellow junior Nick Avery is going to challenge him for time in the line-up. Avery has pushed himself into the varsity line-up before and had some strong showings. "Cameron scored points at the NCAA's, and gained a lot of confidence from that experience," said Goldman. "The confidence boost has been a benefit to him this offseason and should help in his quest to succeed in 2010." "Nick is going to serve as strong competition for Eric. He has been a solid performer for us for years now. 197 POUNDS Redshirt sophomore Matt Powless is likely to serve as Indiana's 197-pounder. He showed the ability to compete with "the big boys" last season, defeating several NCAA Qualifiers. His biggest victory came against Purdue's Logan Brown in the waning seconds. His foe was not only ranked No. 13 nationally at the time, but Powless's win also clinched the team triumph over the Boilermakers. He will be joined at practice by Joe Fagiano, who is redshirting this season. Fagiano is a two-time NCAA Qualifier with 40 career wins in two years on his resume. "Matt has gotten much bigger in the offseason and comes in as a more bona fide 197-pounder after starting last year at 184 lbs.," said Goldman. "He will also benefit from having Fagiano in the wrestling room each and every day." True freshman Tanner Kriss, a state champion from Kansas, will likely redshirt. 285 POUNDS Indiana has a pair of senior heavyweights to choose from. Nate Everhart is the favorite to fill the heavyweight role. He is a two-time NCAA Qualifier and notched two wins over nationally-ranked opponents last season. Everhart's offseason workouts have paid off with a big increase in overall strength and muscle mass. Kuhn, meanwhile, is a very tall wrestler who has challenged for varsity spots before at both 197 and 285 pounds. The Indianapolis, Ind., native has competed in a total of 17 duals during his Hoosier career. "Nate is very anxious to get his senior season started," said Goldman. "His confidence level and the experience he has gained over the last couple years are coming to a head." "Justin has prepared himself well to have a good senior year on the mat. We feel very condifent that he could step in for Nate if needed." Columbus North High's Jowan Gill also tips the scales at 200-plus for IU, but is a redshirt candidate for the 2009-10 season.