InterMat Staff

LARAMIE, Wyo. -- University of Wyoming Athletics Director Tom Burman announced on Monday that Mark Branch has been selected as the new head wrestling coach at UW. Mark BranchBranch comes to Wyoming from Oklahoma State University where he was the Associate Head Wrestling Coach. He was a part of five NCAA team championships as a coach and student-athlete at OSU. As a college wrestler, Branch was a member of OSU's 1994 NCAA Championship team, and served on the coaching staff for OSU's 2002, 2003, 2004 and 2005 NCAA titles. He provided the Cowboys from Stillwater with personal and team instruction including technique training, weight training, conditioning and nutrition. He was instrumental in the recruiting of student-athletes to Stillwater, as well as organizing fundraising projects, promotional strategies and assisting in public relation functions with student-athletes. Branch replaces Steven Suder, who coached the Wyoming Cowboys from 1989-2008. "The hiring of Mark is exciting for the future of Wyoming Cowboy wrestling," Burman said. "We feel his experience and passion will enable us to become a national player in the wrestling community." "For me, this is the realization of my goal to become an NCAA head coach," said Branch. "I'm from a competitive background, and I was looking for a place where I could build a nationally-competitive program. I believe there is a great deal of support from the Athletic Department and the University as a whole at Wyoming. Wyoming is the right program for me and the right fit for me and my family. I appreciate the confidence that Tom Burman (UW Athletics Director) and Matt Whisenant (UW Senior Associate Athletics Director) have shown in me to get the job done." As a member of the OSU coaching staff, Branch was named the National Wrestling Coaches' Association (NWCA) Assistant Coach of the Year in 2004. He helped coach OSU to seven Big XII Championships, four NCAA Championships and three Dual Team Championships. He was named the Associate Head Coach at OSU in 2002. He individually coached 31 All-Americans and nine NCAA Champions. Branch has been a freestyle wrestling coach for the Gator Club in New Orleans, La., since 1997 where he provides personal instruction and training in freestyle wrestling. His teams have participated at various World Team training camps. He has coached at the U.S. Nationals and World/Olympic Team Trials. As a student-athlete at OSU, Branch was a four-time NCAA All-American (1994-97), four-time NCAA National Finalist (1994-97), two-time NCAA National Champion at 167 pounds (1994 and '97) and a two-time National Freestyle All-American (1998 and '99). In 1997, he was named the Big XII Athlete of the Year, OSU Student-Athlete of the Year and the top graduating senior for OSU Wrestling. He was a four-time NWCA Academic All-American, received an NCAA Post-Graduate Scholarship Award and a Big XII Post-Graduate Scholarship Award. Branch earned his bachelor of science degree in secondary education from Oklahoma State in 1997 and earned his master of science degree in athletic administration from OSU in 2000. "I wouldn't be in this position if it weren't for the opportunities I was given at my alma mater, Oklahoma State," said Branch. "John Smith (Head Wrestling Coach at Oklahoma State) gave me the opportunity to learn from him. I consider him to be the greatest coach in college wrestling. I was fortunate to be a part of the greatest program in college wrestling as a student-athlete and assistant coach with the Oklahoma State Cowboys, now I'm excited to build on the great tradition of Wyoming Cowboy wrestling." A native of Newkirk, Okla., he and his wife Susan have a daughter, Maggie Belle, and a son, Mason Layne.

Wichita, Kan. -- Newman University officials announced today that Head Wrestling Coach Mark Stovall has resigned to take a position with the Heartspring School in Wichita for special needs children. Newman Assistant Wrestling Coach Ryan Smith has been promoted to the head coaching position on a one-year interim basis. The change in coaching leadership is effective immediately. Mark Stovall"Mark has done an excellent job and has built a very successful wrestling program here at Newman, so naturally we are sorry to see him go," said Newman Director of Athletics Randy Smith. "But, he has decided to pursue another area of interest, and we wish him the best in his new endeavor." "This opportunity was offered to me and I think it's the direction I need to take in my life right now," Stovall said. "I'm leaving with mixed emotions. I've learned a lot about college athletics at Newman University. I want to thank everybody that helped me during the four years I was here. I will miss my athletes with all my heart, and I wish the best to them and all Newman student-athletes." Stovall earned a bachelor's degree in education from Newman in 1997. Following a successful coaching career in Texas, Oklahoma and Wichita, he returned to Newman in 2004 to help launch the university's wrestling program. During his tenure, 47 wrestlers qualified for national tournaments and 14 gained All-American status. Newman also produced two national champions, Curtis Chenoweth in 2006 and Josh Fansler in 2008, and secured a runner-up finish at this year's National Collegiate Wrestling Association (NCWA) National Championships. Randy Smith said Ryan Smith (the two are not related) was offered the top coaching position because of his experience with Newman wrestling and the overall success of the program. Ryan Smith"If you're happy with the direction of the program you promote from within instead of going outside," Randy Smith said. "We're very happy with the program and the condition Mark is leaving it in, and I am impressed with Ryan's passion for Newman wrestling and his commitment to the program. I think it's a great opportunity for him and that he'll do an outstanding job next year." Ryan Smith said he opted to accept the position on a one-year interim basis then return to his assistant coach role because he plans to pursue a long-term career in business. Smith earned a bachelor's degree in business management from Newman in 2005, and a master's of business administration (MBA) degree from Newman this spring. He works for C.E. Machine in Wichita as a program manager. Before coming to Newman he wrestled for Labette Community College, from which he graduated in 2003 with associate degrees in accounting and business administration. After one year at Dakota Wesleyan University in Mitchell, S.D., he returned to Newman for his final season of collegiate wrestling when the Newman program began. He has worked part-time as assistant wrestling coach at Newman since graduating in 2005. "We're going to keep moving in the same direction the program has been going," he said. "I've been with the program since it started, both as a wrestler and as a coach, and I've learned a lot from working with Mark. He has a great love for the sport. I look forward to the guys who are returning from last season, and I hope we can fill some empty spots in the next six weeks to build a team that wants to work and be successful." Newman University is a member of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), Division II. Newman is the only private university in the state of Kansas that is a member of the NCAA. Newman teams compete in the Heartland Conference, an NCAA Division II conference founded in 1999 that currently consists of nine schools: six from Texas, and one each from Kansas, Missouri and Oklahoma. Newman fields NCAA intercollegiate teams in both men's and women's basketball, cross country, golf, soccer and tennis, as well as baseball, softball and women's volleyball. Newman also offers men's wrestling, which competes as an NCAA independent, and men's and women's bowling, which compete in intercollegiate conferences.

WASHINGTON -- Former American University wrestler and 2007 NCAA National Champion Josh Glenn has been named an assistant coach of the wrestling team, under head coach Mark Cody. Glenn was a member of the AU wrestling team from 2003-08 and completed his collegiate career as the most decorated wrestler in school history. He became the university's first NCAA Div. I National Champion in 2007 and is the only wrestler to earn multiple All-America honors with three. His career record of 110-14 (88.7%) ranks him first all-time in winning percentage at AU and second all-time in wins. Glenn was also a three-time Eastern Intercollegiate Wrestling Association Champion, the program's first Midlands Champion and was named the 2008 American University Senior Male Student-Athlete of the Year. Glenn excelled off the mat as well, earning multiple awards for academic achievement and leadership. After the 2007-08 season, Glenn was named a National Wrestling Coaches Association Academic All-American and was the recipient of the university's Stafford H. Cassell Award, given annually to the senior who best exemplifies the traits of Mr. Cassell: total and selfless dedication to the university, profound energy, reliability, as well as intellectual curiosity, friendliness, and helpfulness. Glenn graduated from AU this past May with a double-major in law & society and U.S. foreign policy.

Columbia, Mo. -- The Missouri Wrestling Foundation will host an Olympic sendoff for former Tiger grappler Ben Askren, Wednesday, July 16, beginning at Noon (CT) at the Peach Tree Catering Hall in Columbia, Mo. Those interested in attending the hour-and-a-half lunch emceed by the Voice of the Tigers, Mike Kelly, should register online at www.missouriwrestlingfoundation.com. Seating is limited and tickets are $40 per person or $250 per table. All proceeds from the event will go to the Missouri Wrestling Foundation. Following the luncheon, Askren will be available for a meet-and-greet session. Askren, a two-time collegiate national champion, qualified for his first Olympic appearance June 15 in the 74 kg weight class. Askren is the first Missouri graduate to qualify for the Olympics in the sport of wrestling and one of six freestyle grapplers representing the United States in the 2008 Beijing Olympics. The freestyle wrestling competition will begin Wednesday, Aug. 20 at the China Agriculture University Gymnasium.

Summer is here! While this time of year is usually thought of as the off-season for wrestling (at least in terms of high school and college), fans can feed their fix by planning a wrestling roadtrip. Across the United States there are a number of wrestling museums, halls of fame and other must-see sites of interest for the sport's participants and supporters. InterMatWrestle.com has put together a wrestling roadtrip that features a number of top wrestling-related landmarks. We established some ground rules for a facility to make this list. For starters, we realize that there are few facilities devoted exclusively to amateur wrestling, so we've included some multi-sports halls of fame, as long as they have some wrestling content. These displays must cover real wrestling; we're not particularly interested in facilities that emphasize pro rasslin'. What's more, the facilities must be open to the general public. We've avoided listing anything that requires a membership in a private club, or are locked away in a wrestling room not easily accessible to visitors. Now, let's pack up the car … fasten your seat belt … and get ready for our wrestling roadtrip! (Note: Before you go, you'll probably want to contact the individual facilities of interest to you, to check on days/hours of operation, admission prices, parking, etc.) Colorado In this Olympic year, if you're not able to travel to Beijing, why not consider a trip to Colorado Springs to see the U.S. Olympic Training Center. The Visitor Center -- which welcomes 140,000 guests each year -- is the starting place for free public tours of the training facilities, including the wrestling room, conducted by U.S. Olympic Committee Ambassadors. U.S. Olympic Training Center, Colorado Springs, Colorado. 1-888-659-8687. Illinois A number of our Presidents had wrestling backgrounds. Perhaps the most famous grappler-in-chief was Abraham Lincoln. As a young man, the lanky attorney was known for his wrestling prowess … especially in his legendary matches with Jack Armstrong at New Salem, Illinois. You can experience life as Lincoln lived it in the 1830s in a re-creation of this community at Lincoln's New Salem. In past summers, the facility has hosted re-enactments of the Lincoln vs. Armstrong wrestling matches featuring high school students in period costumes. About twenty miles southeast of New Salem is the state capital of Illinois, Springfield, which is chock-full of Lincoln landmarks open to the public, including the outstanding Presidential Library and Museum, as well as his family's home before moving to the White House, and Lincoln's Tomb. Lincoln's New Salem State Historic Site, Illinois Route 97, Petersburg, Illinois. (217) 632-4000. Indiana Designed by noted architect Michael Graves, the NCAA Hall of Champions in downtown Indianapolis features interactive displays and video presentations from athletes and coaches in all 23 sports under the jurisdiction of the National Collegiate Athletic Association -- including wrestling. NCAA Hall of Champions, White River State Park, downtown Indianapolis, Indiana. Iowa Let's start at the top of this wrestling-crazy state. In the northeast Iowa town of Cresco, just south of the Minnesota border, is the home of the Iowa Wrestling Hall of Fame. Located inside the Cresco Chamber of Commerce right downtown, this Hall of Fame honors corn-fed, born-in-Iowa amateur wrestlers and coaches. Among those enshrined are some Cresco hometown heroes: Nobel Peace Prize winner Norman Bourlag, iconic Iowa State coach Harold Nichols, and University of Iowa wrestler/coach Gary Kurdelmeier … as well as native sons Simon Roberts, and Bill Koll, three-time NCAA champ for Iowa State Teachers College (now University of Northern Iowa) who went on to coach at his alma mater and Penn State. Each inductee is commemorated with a plaque with photos and information on his life and wrestling career. Iowa Wrestling Hall of Fame, 101 Second Avenue SW, Cresco, Iowa. (563) 547-3434. National Wrestling Hall of Fame Dan Gable MuseumAbout an hour south of Cresco is Waterloo, home to the National Wrestling Hall of Fame Dan Gable Museum … one of the largest, most encompassing facilities of its type in the U.S. Having relocated in January 2007 from Newton, Iowa to Waterloo -- Gable's hometown –- the facility does NOT limit its focus to its namesake, but includes amateur wrestling displays that trace the history of the sport in photos, artwork, and one-of-a-kind collectibles. In addition, there's the Alan & Gloria Rice Greco Hall of Champions, the Glen Brand Iowa Wrestling Hall of Fame, the Dan Gable Teaching Center (a wrestling room for demonstrations and instruction), a research library, a video theater, and a separate section on professional wrestling. National Wrestling Hall of Fame Dan Gable Museum, 303 Jefferson Street, downtown Waterloo, Iowa. (319) 233-0745. While you're in the hometown of Dan Gable, why not stop by Waterloo West High School where the 1972 Olympic gold medallist and long-time Iowa Hawkeye coach built a perfect mat career for the Wahawks in the mid-1960s for another coaching legend, Bob Siddens. (Siddens' name graces the gym; Gable's adorns the new wrestling facility). The Wahawk Hall of Fame has been recently updated and expanded to include a bronze statue of Gable. Among the many WWHS wrestlers honored: Jim Harmon, Dale Anderson, Akeem Carter, and Mike VanArsdale. While in the neighborhood … drive by the white-frame house at 2241 Easley (across Baltimore from Waterloo West) where Dan Gable grew up. The house is no longer in the family and is NOT open to the public. Wahawk Hall of Fame, Waterloo West High School, 425 East Ridgeway (corner of Ridgeway and Baltimore), Waterloo, Iowa. (319) 433-2707. Hungry? Just down the street from Waterloo West at 360 East Ridgeway is The Other Place. This area landmark, established in 1970, features pizza, sandwiches, salads and other bar-food favorites. A couple hours southeast of Waterloo is the picturesque town of Mt. Vernon, home of Cornell College. In 1947, their Royal Purple wrestlers won the NCAA team title, becoming the smallest school to ever win the team title, and the only private college to do so. Stop by the Richard and Norma Small Multi-Sport Center (named for a wrestler on that championship team and his wife) to see the NCAA and AAU national trophies, along with photos and plaques on display in the lobby. Small Multi-Sport Center, Cornell College, 600 First Street West, Mt. Vernon, Iowa. (319) 895-4486. A half-hour south of Mt Vernon on Iowa Route 1 is Iowa City, home of the University of Iowa Hawkeyes. On the edge of campus is the University of Iowa Athletics Hall of Fame. The facility honors Hawkeye athletes of all sports, including wrestling… with championship trophies and other wrestling memorabilia. While on campus, take a spin past Carver-Hawkeye Arena, also known as The House Gable Built, and home venue for the Hawkeye wrestling program since 1983. In front of Carver-Hawkeye you'll find the bronze statue of Gable, dedicated in 2012. University of Iowa Athletics Hall of Fame, 2425 Prairie Meadow Drive (northwest corner of Melrose Avenue and Mormon Trek Blvd,), Iowa City, Iowa. 1-866-IOWA-FAME. From Iowa City, head west on I-80 to Des Moines, the state capital… to the Iowa Hall of Pride. Located in the HyVee Hall at the Iowa Events Center downtown, this recently-constructed facility sponsored by the Iowa High School Athletic Association honors prep athletes in various sports, including wrestling, which is, arguably, THE sport in the state of Iowa. Iowa Hall of Pride, HyVee Hall at Iowa Events Center, 330 Park Street, Des Moines, Iowa. (515) 280-8969. From Des Moines, drive north on I-35 about a half-hour to Ames, the home of Iowa State University. On the eastern edge of the campus is the Lied Recreation Center. Head upstairs to the walkway outside the Cyclone wrestling room to see the Iowa State Wrestling "Wall of Fame" featuring photo-portraits of all-time great Iowa State wrestlers who have won NCAA titles, earned All-American honors, and/or wrestled at the Olympics -- guys like Dan Gable, Cael Sanderson, Joe Heskett, Chris Bono, Chris Taylor, Ben Peterson and dozens more. Also in the eastern portion of the campus, you can drive by Hilton Coliseum, home of the wrestling Cyclones since 1971. Hungry? Hickory Park has been an Ames institution since 1970. Barbeque, burgers, and giant ice cream sundaes in a fun, old-time atmosphere. 1404 S. Duff Avenue near U.S. 30, Ames. (515) 232-8940. Michigan The Michigan State Athletics Hall of Fame, located in the Clara Bell Smith Student-Athlete Academic Center across from Spartan Stadium, has displays honoring some of the all-time great Spartan wrestlers and coaches, including Fendley Collins, Grady Peninger, Burl and Merle Jennings, and Gale Mikles. Michigan State University Athletics Hall of Fame, Clara Bell Smith Student-Athlete Academic Center, Shaw Lane, East Lansing, Michigan. (517) 355-2271. At the Cliff Keen Arena at the University of Michigan, there's a display showcasing the long history of Wolverine wrestling. (The arena itself is named for Cliff Keen, head wrestling coach at Michigan from 1926-1970.) Cliff Keen Arena, University of Michigan, South State and Hoover Streets, Ann Arbor, Michigan. New York In upstate New York is Ithaca, home of Cornell University and its Cornell Athletic Hall of Fame. Nearly 500 Big Red athletes, coaches and supporters are honored in the Hall, including wrestlers such as Dave Auble, Frank Bettucci, Don Dickason, and Stephen Friedman, Chair of the President's Foreign Intelligence Advisory Board, and prior to that, chief economic advisor to President George W. Bush. His name graces the Friedman Wrestling Center, which, according to the Ivy League school, is the only freestanding wrestling facility dedicated exclusively to the sport. Cornell Athletic Hall of Fame, Friends Hall, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York. Ohio Schottenstein CenterRight in the heart of Ohio is Columbus, home to Ohio State University. The Ohio State Athletic Hall of Fame inside the lobby of the Value City Arena at the Schottenstein Center on campus honors a number of Buckeye wrestlers, including Kevin Randleman, Jim Humphrey and Jude Skove. Also while on campus, check out the wrestling-related display cases inside St John Arena. Ohio State Athletic Hall of Fame, Value City Arena at the Jerome Schottenstein Center, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio. A couple hours up I-71 and I-76 from Columbus is the northeast Ohio community of Kent (just east of Akron). Kent State University honors its great athletes, coaches and supporters with its Varsity "K" Hall of Fame. Located on the second floor of the MACC campus arena, the Hall of Fame has a number of Golden Flash wrestlers on its roster, along with highly-respected, long-time wrestling coaches Joe Begala (an Ohio University alum) and Ron Gray, a two-time NCAA champ at Iowa State. Varsity "K" Hall of Fame, Memorial Athletic and Convocation Center (MACC), Kent State University, Kent, Ohio. Oklahoma National Wrestling Hall of Fame & MuseumNo amateur wrestling roadtrip would be complete without a pilgrimage to the National Wrestling Hall of Fame & Museum in Stillwater. Located on the edge of the Oklahoma State University campus, this facility's museum portion features extensive displays that trace the development of wrestling in the U.S., including wrestling uniforms actually worn by mat superstars… while the hall of fame section presents the stories of individual inductees in words, personal photos and collectibles. There is also an impressive library with just about any book you could want to read about wrestling (along with a complete collection of Amateur Wrestling News back to the first issue), and a theater for watching vintage wrestling films. National Wrestling Hall of Fame & Museum, 405 West Hall of Fame Avenue, Stillwater, Oklahoma. (405) 377-5243. Within sight of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame is Gallagher-Iba Arena, named in part for groundbreaking Oklahoma State head wrestling coach in the 1920s and 30s Edward Clark Gallagher. This "Madison Square Garden of the Midwest" (as it was called at its opening in 1939) is home to the Cowboy wrestling program… and home for the Oklahoma State University Heritage Hall, which walks visitors through the history of the Stillwater school since 1890, including its rich sports legacy. A number of greats from the Cowboy wrestling program are enshrined in the Hall of Honor, including John Smith, Ed Gallagher, Myron Roderick, Yojiro Uetake-Obata, Kenny Monday, and Jimmy Jackson. Heritage Hall, Gallagher-Iba Arena, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma. After all that museum exploring, you've probably worked up an appetite. Eskimo Joe's describes itself as "Stillwater's jumpin' little juke joint." For more than thirty years, visitors have stopped by for burgers, chicken sandwiches and Joe's Famous Cheesefries. About an hour south of Stillwater on I-35 is Oklahoma City. The Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame & Jim Thorpe Museum is a long-time dream that's now under construction, with an anticipated opening date of late 2008. Among the honorees from the world of wrestling with roots in Oklahoma: John Smith, Dan Hodge, Wayne Wells, Myron Roderick, Port Robertson, Ed Gallagher, Kenny Monday, Art Griffith and Jack VanBebber. (Among early 1900s sports superstar Jim Thorpe's athletic accomplishments: he wrestled!) Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame, 4040 North Lincoln, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. While in the Oklahoma City area, stop by the John Smith Fieldhouse at Del City High School, the place where the Smiths –- Lee Roy, John, Pat and Mark -- learned their mat craft. A life-size statue of John Smith greets you on the outside of the Filedhouse; inside, you'll find photos that capture the essence of wrestling in one of the sport's hotbeds. John Smith Fieldhouse, Del City High School, 1900 South Sunnylane Road, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. (406) 677-5777. Pennsylvania Western Pennsylvania has a rich wrestling heritage. For starters, two U.S. Olympic gold medallists -- Bruce Baumgartner and Kurt Angle -- have deep roots in the area. The Western Pennsylvania Sports Museum in Pittsburgh reflects the region's mat traditions that extend from grade school through high school to college and international competition. This museum features treasures from Baumgartner and Angle, as well as displays pertaining to the Dapper Dan Classic, the long-running annual wrestling event which pits the best prep wrestlers from the region against America's top high school mat stars. Western Pennsylvania Sports Museum, Senator John Heinz History Center, 1212 Smallman Street, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (412) 454-6000. Northeast of Pittsburgh is the community of Clearfield, in north-central Pennsylvania. Clearfield High School lays claim to having the most state champs in the state (the 40th was crowned in 2008), two NCAA Division I champs, and one of the most respected prep wrestling coaches anywhere in the country in Art Weiss. The Clearfield County Historical Museum has Coach Weiss' awards and papers available to researchers who want insight into the methods of one of the all-time greats who coaching career spanned the 1930s, 40s and 50s. Clearfield County Historical Museum, 104 East Pine Street, Clearfield, Pennsylvania. (814) 765-6125. Just east of Clearfield is Penn State. This year, the Nittany Lions wrestling program celebrates its 100th year … and the 55th anniversary of winning the NCAA team title right at home in State College … the only eastern college to win a national team title in the nearly 80 years of NCAA wrestling. Lorenzo Wrestling ComplexThere are three treats in store for wrestling fans who come to Happy Valley. First, at the Nittany Lions' recently upgraded Lorenzo Wrestling Complex at venerable Rec Hall on the PSU campus, there's a Penn State Wrestling Hall of Honor that showcases a century of mat success with photos and memorabilia … with glass windows that let you get a look at the next generation of champions at work in the Joyner Wrestling Room. Next, wander over to the Penn State All-Sports Museum. Located in the southwest corner of Beaver Stadium, this facility honors student-athletes and coaches of all PSU sports … including Nittany Lion wrestlers. Penn State Wrestling Hall of Honor, Lorenzo Wrestling Complex, Recreation Hall, Penn State University. Penn State All-Sports Museum, Beaver Stadium, Penn State University. (814) 863-3382. Last but not least, you'll want to treat yourself to a visit to the Penn State Creamery, home of the college's world-famous ice cream, and serving breakfast, lunch and dinner in the heart of the campus. Bigler and Curtin Roads, University Park, Pennsylvania. (814) 865-7535. Pennsylvania is definitely one of the white-hot centers for amateur wrestling in the U.S. In addition to being home to some of the top high school and college programs in the country, the Keystone state is also home to two companies that wrestlers and fans know very well: Resilite, and Brute. Resilite has almost become the universal name for foam-core mats, much like Kleenex = tissues. This family-owned business manufactures wrestling mats in Northumberland, in central Pennsylvania, just east of Penn State. While they don't offer plant tours, Resilite will be happy to take your order for a Home Mat in person … or you can order it online or by phone, and pick up while you're on your Wrestling Roadtrip. Resilite Sports Products, Sunbury, Pennsylvania. 1-800-THE-MATS. Not only will Pennsylvania provide you with the mat to wrestle on… but also the gear to wear onto the mat. Brute/Adidas welcomes wrestlers and fans who wear their shoes, singlets and headgear to their facility in Sinking Spring, just outside Reading. Brute/adidas, 8 Corporate Blvd., Sinking Spring, Pennsylvania. Located in northeast Pennsylvania, Lehigh University has long been considered a college-wrestling powerhouse. The Roger S. Penske/Lehigh Athletics Hall of Fame reflects that heritage; over two dozen Mountain Hawk matmen are honored there, legends of every era, including 1936 NCAA heavyweight champ Howell Scobey … two-time national titlewinner (1979, 1983) Darryl Burley … Mike Caruso, Lehigh's only three-time NCAA champ (1965-67) … and brothers Mike and Mark Lieberman … along with revered coaches Billy Sheridan, Gerry Leeman, and Thad Turner. Roger S. Penske/Lehigh Athletics Hall of Fame, Taylor Gymnasium, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. This concludes our Wrestling Roadtrip. Thanks for coming along for the ride! Have we missed a must-see wrestling landmark? Email your recommendations to Mark@InterMatWrestling.com. Can't make an actual roadtrip right now? Right now from your computer, you can take a virtual tour with a look inside the National Wrestling Hall of Fame Dan Gable Museum (Waterloo), the Iowa Wrestling Hall of Fame (Cresco), the Varsity "K" Hall of Fame at Kent State, and the National Wrestling Hall of Fame and Museum in Stillwater with photo-albums of these facilities at Vintage Amateur Wrestling Photo Annex 2 Yahoo group: http://games.groups.yahoo.com/group/VintageAmateurWrestlingPhotoAnnex2/.

We return to the Brute Adidas studios this Saturday for another 2 hours of wrestling talk. Join us for a lively discussion on wrestling. Yup, the sport we all love. The Olympics are just 4 weeks away and the best America has to offer will be showcasing their talent in Beijing, China. I know its all hard work, determination, and whatnot but we should all take a moment and give thanks and offer a silent prayer to our Team as they endeavor to return home to the friendly shores of America with Gold around their necks! God Bless Team USA! TDR this week: Brett and Kristy Mattys- Parents of 2 young Minnesota wrestlers (little guys) have been challenged by their youngest son Sam, 7 years old. Sam was diagnosed at the age of 4 with Sensory Processing disorder. This is a neuroprocessing disorder that affects the way the brain interprets all of the senses. He has been in and out of Occupational therapy since the diagnosis. Sam is a "sensory seeker" and his main issues are proprioceptive. This means he has trouble with the input and feedback that tells us about movement and body position. He has issues with motor planning and control. He is a mover, shaker, jumper, crasher, bouncer! He does great when he can receive OT, which consists of what looks to you or me like gym time! One of the things that was recommended to us was to put him in wrestling, which we did. What a blessing! The warm ups and drills were like OT for him, and the wrestling itself was great for joint input. He has been part of the youth wrestling team now for 2 years. His brother also became involved after watching, and it has become a passion for our whole family. If this interview doesn't charge you up about wrestling nothing will! Joe McFarland- Head Coach of the Michigan Wolverines- Joe joins us to talk about Andy Hrovat and his drive to represent the USA, his goals and aspirations. Dustin Fox- Northwestern Heavy Weight, What does the future hold for this bright young man? Tune in and find out. Ben Askren- (Missouri) US Olympic Team Member- Ben is one of the most enigmatic wrestlers competing today. His natural strength and ability have carried him far but what lies ahead in his weight class in Beijing? Joel Sharrett- Head Coach Air force (Iowa)- Joel spent a number of years learning Bruce Burnett's management style that he has honed to perfection as the Head Coach of the Falcons. An elite program for sure. We'll take a look at where the program was and where we go from here. Joe Heskett- Assist Coach at The Ohio State University. I described Joe's style in competition to be the quiet before the storm. How has that translated in his current position as a coach under Tom Ryan? Join us each week for a new episode of America's Wrestling Radio Talk Show, Saturday morning's from 9:00Am CST to 11:00AM at Takedownradio.com. Know of someone that needs, deserves recognition or has a great story to tell? Let me know. Email me at Svideoman@aol.com or feel free to call me at 515-707-8657

A New Year's Day home dual with perennial national power Oklahoma State highlights the 2008-2009 Minnesota wrestling slate released today. Other notable dates include the season-opening Northern Quad with Northern Colorado, North Dakota State and Portland State at Rochester, MInn. (Nov. 29), a road dual at defending Big Ten and NCAA champion Iowa (Feb. 15) and home meets with conference foes Michigan State (Jan. 25), Michigan (Feb. 6), Northwestern (Feb. 8) and Indiana (Feb. 22). Each of the Gophers' five home duals this season will be held at the University Sports Pavilion. After unfolding in Minneapolis a year ago, the Big Ten Championships travel to State College, Pa. (Mar. 8-9) this season, while the NCAA Championships will be held in St. Louis, Mo. (Mar. 19-21) for the second consecutive season.

This week's edition of "On the Mat" will feature Spenser Mango and Doug Schwab. Mango made this year's Olympic team in Greco-Roman at 121 pounds. He is a member of the Gator Wrestling Club and is a member of the United States Olympic Education Center at Northern Michigan. Schwab made this year's Olympic team in freestyle at 145.5 pounds. He is currently the head assistant coach at the University of Iowa. Schwab placed fifth at last year's world championships and was a three-time All-American and a one-time NCAA champion for the University of Iowa. "On the Mat" is a weekly wrestling radio program that airs every Wednesday night. This week's broadcast can be heard live from 6-7 p.m. Central Standard Time. The Dan Gable International Wrestling Institute and Museum in Waterloo, Iowa, hosts the show. "On the Mat" can be heard live on the Internet at www.kcnzam.com or locally in Northeast Iowa on 1650, The Fan. Feel free to e-mail radio@wrestlingmuseum.org with questions or comments about the show.

State College, Pa. -- Penn State's 2007 NCAA Heavyweight Wrestling Finalist, Aaron Anspach, will compete for LionHeart MMA this month at the Battlefield Fighting Championships in Fredricksburg, Va. Anspach, who is currently on staff at Penn State as Director of Wrestling Operations said, "Competing in an MMA event will be an exciting new challenge for me. I'm glad to be representing LionHeart and am looking forward to stepping into the cage." Also scheduled to compete for LionHeart at the Battlefield Fighting Championships are NCAA National Champion Phil Davis and undefeated MMA amateur Lou Armezzani. Tickets for the Battlefield Fighting Championships are available at www.lionheartfighters.com

EVANSTON, Ill. -- After taking bronze at the 2006 University World Championships, Northwestern's Jake Herbert is looking to bring home another medal at this year's event, held in Thessoloniki, Greece, from July 9-13. Herbert will provide leadership and experience as the only returning competitor on the men's freestyle team. "Herbert is a returning bronze medalist," Freestyle Developmental Coach Dave Bennett said. "He knows what he needs to do. We're expecting a good performance." Joining Herbert (84 kg/185 lbs.) on the freestyle team are Brad Pataky at 55 kg/121 lbs., Reece Humphrey at 60 kg/132 lbs., Josh Churella at 66 kg/145.5 lbs, Keith Gavin at 74 kg/163 lbs., Brendan Jones at 96 kg/211.5 lbs. and Tervel Dlagnev at 120 kg/264.5 lbs. The other six wrestlers are making their first trip to compete at University Worlds. Herbert, who took an Olympic redshirt last season to train and compete in international events leading up to the trials, will return to the Wildcats for 2008-09 to pursue his second NCAA title.

University of Iowa Assistant Wrestling Coach Wes Hand has decided to leave the Hawkeye program to pursue other interests. The announcement was made today by Head Wrestling Coach Tom Brands. "The Iowa wrestling program has made monumental strides in the last two years and Wes Hand has been a big part of our march to a national title," said Brands. "We wish him the very best in the future." Hand was a four-year letterman (1997-2000) with the Hawkeyes. A two-time all-American, he finished second in the nation and the Big Ten as a senior in 2000. He had a 102-32 career record as a heavyweight. Hand was an assistant coach, with Brands, at Virginia Tech (2004-06) before accompanying Brands to Iowa two years ago. He helped lead the Hawkeyes to this year's national title. "I would like to thank all the athletes, staff, administration and alumni I've been associated with during my athletic and coaching career at Iowa," said Hand. "It's been a privilege to be part of such a great athletic program and University."

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Jack Effner, who won 71 dual matches and sent 37 wrestlers to compete at the NCAA Championships in his 10 seasons as head wrestling coach at Cleveland State, has resigned his position in order to accept a school counseling position in Virginia. The resignation is effective August 2, 2008. Jack Effner"I would like to thank Jack for the dedication that he has shown during his 10 years at Cleveland State," CSU Director of Athletics Lee Reed said. "Because of his effort, he is leaving the program in good shape and it should be easy to find a successor. I wish Jack good luck in his new position." Effner, who was hired in May of 1998 as only the second head coach of the wrestling program in CSU modern day history, compiled a 71-91-3 record in his 10 seasons at CSU. He owns a 158-133-8 mark in 19 seasons overall that includes an 87-42-5 mark in nine seasons at Army. Effner took over as head wrestling coach in 1998-99 after Dick Bonacci left after 36 seasons as head coach. In just his second season, he guided the Vikings to a 9-8-1 record, the program's first winning season in eight years. He sent wrestlers to the NCAA Championships in each of his 10 seasons, extending the Viking streak of representation at the national tournament to 43 straight years. Both of Effner's sons, Jason and Marcus, wrestled for him at CSU. Marcus, who will be a fifth-year senior in 2008-09 wrestled at the NCAA Championships as both a freshman (2005) and junior (2007). Jason was a four-year starter, winning 64 bouts at 157 and 165. He remained at his alma mater the last three seasons, serving as Director of Wrestling Operations. "I really appreciate the opportunity that Cleveland State gave me 10 years ago and I will look back on this time with a lot of great memories," Effner said. "My time at Cleveland State has been a real good experience for me and my family but it just felt like it was time for me to travel a different path." A two-time All-American at Indiana State, Effner earned his undergraduate degree in Industrial Education from ISU in 1986 and went on to earn master's degrees in Industrial Education from Clemson in 1993 and in Counseling and Education from Long Island University in 1997. A national search for Effner's successor will begin immediately.

Event: UFC 86: Jackson vs. Griffin Date: July 5, 2008 Venue: Mandalay Bay Events Center (Las Vegas, Nevada) Has Forrest GRIFFIN (21-4) ever been favored to win a big fight? I think not. Yet, on Saturday night in Las Vegas at UFC 86, he stands again as an underdog with a chance of becoming a champion. A shocking upset over Shogun RUA puts him in a spot to face the awesome Quinton "Rampage" JACKSON (28-6), who has rolled through the division's best, including a surprisingly easy KO over Chuck "the Iceman" LIDDELL. The UFC Monster and Forrest Griffin in Las VegasLike most fans, I give Forrest a wild, puncher's chance of winning the belt. He also has the heart of a champion. He will NEVER quit. I mean really, who doesn't love Forrest Griffin? He's a pure fighter with an incredible spirit. But, Rampage is legendary. He has beaten them all. His showmanship wants to stay on the top of the food chain. But, this weight class is loaded with talent, and it will be difficult for anyone to reign for long. But on Saturday night, the title still belongs to Rampage. He wins by second-round TKO, with some ugly, bloody, ground and pound that caps a night of great battles. Ricardo ALMEIDA (9-2) has won seven (7) straight middleweight fights. His opponent, Canadian Patrick COTE, is also on a four (4) fight winning streak. The winner puts himself in title consideration (against "the Spider", Anderson Silva). No thanks. Cote will try to keep this fight on his feet, and hopes to end it all with a rocking right hand. Almeida has different ideas. He wants to take it to the mat where he will dominate with his stronger submission skills … He does and wins by second-round rear-naked choke. Joe "Daddy" STEVENSON (33-8) is coming off a lightweight title shot loss to the great BJ PENN. But, Stevenson didn't just lose. He got beaten to a bloody mess, before getting choked out. He was never in that fight … and his bloodied face told the story. How does a fighter rebound from such a beating? On Saturday night we find out where Daddy's heart really is! I hope it is in beating a very talented and experienced Gleason TIBAU (27-5). I think it will be a battle, but when the bell ends the fight, it will be Joe Stevenson getting the unanimous decision in victory. Josh KOSCHECK (13-2) is a sky-rocketing welterweight, and former NCAA wrestling champion who is a strong favorite to beat the seasoned veteran, Chris "Lights Out" LYTLE (35-15-5). Koscheck was over-matched against Georges ST. PIERRE (GSP), but he has dominated everybody else out there. Chris Lytle will be looking for that one opening of an over-zealous Koscheck charge, that leads to his unloading of a might blow that will put Josh to sleep on the mat. He can do it … and Saturday night, as a last hoorah, he does! Upset special. Tyson GriffinTyson GRIFFIN (11-1) is the only man on the planet to have beaten WEC's Uriah "The California Kid" FABER. I'd love to see Faber vs. BJ. But BJ wants to move up and fight GSP again. GSP wants to go up and fight the Spider. And, the Spider is moving up to fight Irvin. And, I'm sure Faber would like a re-match with Tyson Griffin. Ironically, I think Griffin looked best in his only loss to Frankie EDGAR, than in any of his wins! His opponent, Marcus "Maximus"AURELIO (16-5), is a former Pride fighter who has beaten Takanori GOMI. He's no slouch. I see this one starting out on the feet with Aurelio trying to end it with a punch. Griffin will take it to the ground and wish he hadn't, as Maximus teaches him a lesson in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, catching him with a painful armbar submission late in the first period. Another upset special. On the undercard: Gabriel GONZAGA (8-3) has looked unbeatable (unless he's fighting Ferdicio Werdum or Randy Couture). Justin McCULLY (8-3-2) is a crazy man. One of them will hit the canvass hard. My guess it won't be Gonzaga. But, I think he will be awarded the victory officially by submission as he pounces on his weary opponents body for the kill. For those who like bridge-jumping, take Gonzaga. Cole MILLER (13-3) is a 6'1" lightweight beanpole. These guys are tough to fight. You can't get close enough to hit them, and when they put their long legs around you and crank on something, their leverage is incredible. Despite all of that, I think Jorge GURGEL (16-3) has a bit more experience and will pull a mild upset over Miller with a triangle choke early in the third period. Melvin GUILLARD (39-8-3) looks like a steroid freak, and has a world of experience and ability to beat about anybody. But, he is unpredictable and Dennis SIVER (11-5) may be capable of exposing some weakness in Melvin's game. But, in a non-bettable fight, I'll go with Guillard winning with a strong, rear-naked choke late in the first period. … and finally, let's give Corey HILL (2-0) a shot and staying unbeaten with a first round KO over a stunned Justin BUCHHOLZ (8-2). No betting line available. So, let's try to turn these opinions into cash, using my fictitious $1000 bankroll: Let's lay $240 to win $100 on Rampage (-240) over Forrest. Let's lay $210 to win $150 on Almeida (-140) over Cote. Let's lay $220 to win $100 on Daddy Stevenson (-220) over Tibau. Let's lay $120 to win $300 (yes, $300) on "Lights Out" Lytle (+250) over Koscheck. Let's lay $ 75 to win $210 on Aurelio (+280) over Tyson Griffin. Let's lay $ 90 to win $ 15 (yipes!) on Gonzaga over McCully. Let's lay $ 40 to win $ 40 on Gurgel over Miller. Let's pass on Guillard/Siver and Hill/Buchholz with no betting lines available. Gulliard and Hill would both be plays @ �250 or less, in my opinion. So, that's it. We're laying $995 to win $915 … let's give the balance to Veterans for Peace on this patriotic Fourth of July. Enjoy the fights. I know I will. More later. The UFC Monster

While wrestling at the University of the Cumberlands, Matt Juncal (Brandon, FL) and Eddie Hernandez (Valrico, FL) were known as Patriots, now they're known as Matt "El Sablazo" Juncal and Eddie "The Hulk" Hernandez. Both Juncal and Hernandez are finding success in the cage, as competitors in the Xtreme Fighting Championships (a Mixed Martial Arts organization based out of Tampa, Florida). Juncal and Hernandez were both top performers during their time at the Cumberlands. They helped the Patriots reach a high level of success and also faired well individually, winning the majority of their matches. Juncal earned All-American status during the 2004-05 campaign, when he finished third in the nation at the 184 pound weight class. On June 28th, Juncal made his MMA fighting debut with a victory. The event, "XFC's Salute to Our Armed Forces 4" was held at the St. Pete Times Forum. 10,700 fans watched Matt Juncal win his professional MMA debut via submission 51 seconds into the first round against Jeff Mansir. Hernandez did not fight in the event, but is undefeated as well with a 2-0 record. Both are set to participate in "XFC's Salute to Our Armed Forces 5" at the St. Pete Times Forum in Tampa, FL on September 13th. For more information, check out www.mmaxfc.com.

Two University of Wisconsin wrestling recruits recently competed at the Junior Greco-Roman National Duals in Oklahoma City. Travis Rutt and Thomas Kelliher both wrestled for the Minnesota 1 team and they helped the squad finish third out of 20 state teams. Rutt (New Prague, Minn.) and Kelliher (Burnsville, Minn.) are two of nine recruits that will join the University of Wisconsin wrestling team in the fall. Rutt went a perfect 5-0, while Kelliher finished 2-2 at the duals, which concluded Wednesday afternoon. Minnesota won its pool and advanced to the championship bracket by defeating Michigan (45-11), Florida (52-11), Virginia (47-14) and Pennsylvania (41-26). In the championship bracket, Minnesota beat Missouri (34-27) and Kansas (46-21) before falling to Illinois (40-22). Rutt and Kelliher both competed in the final dual as Minnesota defeated Iowa, 52-13, for third place. Rutt wrestled at 171 lbs. and dominated the competition. He pinned two of his opponents in under 20 seconds and recorded two tech fall victories. Kelliher wrestled at both 125 lbs. and 130 lbs. and won by tech fall in Minnesota's bout against Florida. The competition does not stop here for these future Badgers. Rutt and Kelliher, along with future freshmen Cole Schmitt and Trey Bertram are all scheduled to compete in the Junior Freestyle National Duals that begin today in Oklahoma City and run through Friday, July 4. Complete results from the Junior Greco-Roman and Freestyle National Duals can be found at www.trackwrestling.com.

MOUNT PLEASANT -- Central Michigan University head wrestling coach Tom Borrelli has named Mark DiSalvo the top assistant on his coaching staff. DiSalvo is entering his second season as a member of the CMU staff. He served as the second assistant last season and now moves into the first assistant role vacated by Casey Cunningham. Cunningham has accepted a position on Cael Sanderson's staff at Iowa State. "When you have the opportunity to retain people who have wrestled here and done well competitively you're always happy about that," Borrelli said. "Mark did a phenomenal job last year from an organizational and marketing standpoint. Those are his strengths and those are areas where we are looking to grow our program." A 2005 graduate of CMU, DiSalvo returned to the program last season after serving as the director of operations at Cornell during the 2006-07 season. DiSalvo was a two-time All-American at 149 pounds during his collegiate career. He placed eighth at both the 2005 and 2006 NCAA Championships. DiSalvo was the Mid-American Conference champion at 149 pounds both seasons and was named the MAC Tournament Outstanding Wrestler in 2006. He won CMU's Harry Richards Coaches Award, which recognizes team leadership and worth ethic, as a junior and the team's Most Outstanding Wrestler Award as a senior. A two-time member of the National Wrestling Coaches Association All-Academic team, DiSalvo was the recipient of an NCAA Postgraduate Scholarship and the MAC Commissioners Award for sustained academic excellence. DiSalvo also has been involved at the club level, serving as executive director of Finger Lakes Wrestling Club and co-founder and director of Advantage Wrestling Club. CMU won its 10th straight MAC championship and seventh straight conference tournament title in 2008. The Chippewas tied for seventh at the NCAA Championships, scoring a school-record 69 points. Four individuals earned All-America honors.

Wrestling has been part of the backbone of this country since the birth of our nation. Immigrants brought wrestling traditions to America from around the world, each as varied as their national background. Ultimately, that experience created a collage that is wrestling in the U.S. today. Our youth wrestling programs, camps, high schools, colleges, Olympic teams, and military are steeped in American wrestling tradition 232 years old. TakeDown Radio sends our best wishes and gratitude to our very diverse wrestling community this Fourth of July, our nations glorious birthday. We also feel it's the perfect time to announce the beginning of a new tradition we hope will extend for generations into the future. The High School Wrestler of the Month program will identify, recognize, and reward one young athlete from across this great country each month. The program will be administered by TakeDown Radio, and is made possible by several companies that are corporate pillars of the wrestling community. Resilite, Brute adidas, W.I.N. magazine, Intermat, and Sunflower Wrestling Supply embraced an idea, provided unique creativity, and pledged unselfish contributions in order to place greater focus on one of the most important areas of our sport, high school wrestling. Each month, coaches and parents will submit examples and reasons why their wrestler deserves the award. Recognition in national media, as well as significant prizes will be awarded to The High School Wrestler of the Month. Applications for the program will be provided each month in W.I.N. magazine, as well as PDF versions on the W.I.N. Magazine, TakeDown Radio, and Intermat web sites. The first application will be in the August edition of W.I.N. magazine, for our first award in September. A full press release will follow our Fourth of July break. Complete details, including official rules and regulations will be provided on the award application.

The U.S. World and Olympic Team Trials are the crème de la crème wrestling events in the U.S. for senior level wrestlers. The nation's best freestyle and Greco-Roman wrestlers battle for two days every summer for the opportunity to represent the U.S. at the World Championships or Olympic Games. All-Americans and NCAA champions are a dime a dozen. For every Trials champion crowned, another eight to ten wrestlers leave with broken hearts. R.C. Johnson (Photo/Jeff Beshey, The Guillotine)In 2009, R.C. Johnson, a Minnesota native who attended Northern Michigan before eventually settling in Colorado, finally broke through to win the Trials and make his first U.S. World Team in Greco-Roman at 96 kg after nearly decade of dedicating his life to the sport. That was last season. This season has been frustrating to say the least for the 27-year-old Johnson. After competing at the 2009 World Championships in September in Herning Denmark, where he lost in the opening round, Johnson took a couple weeks off, and then had surgery on his left shoulder to repair a torn labrum, bicep, and bicep tendons. Shortly after surgery, as soon as the doctor allowed, he had surgery on his right shoulder. The surgeries forced him to miss the entire season of competition. It wasn't until three weeks before this year's U.S. World Team Trials that Johnson was cleared to get back on the mat. With limited training, which mostly involved rehabbing and cutting weight, Johnson entered the U.S. World Team Trials June 11-12 at the Mid-America Center in Council Bluffs, Iowa. He cruised to the finals before losing to Justin Ruiz, a 2005 World bronze medalist who retired after falling short of making the 2008 U.S. Olympic Team. Ruiz sat out last season (when Johnson made the U.S. World Team), but made the decision to come out of retirement this season. Johnson is now winless in five attempts against Ruiz. So what went though Johnson's head when he heard that Ruiz had come out of retirement? "I thought nothing of it," said Johnson. "It doesn't bother me at all. The way I see it ... I'm the No. 1 guy. All year I was the No. 1 guy, wrestling or not wrestling. I don't care who comes back. I don't care if the past 10 Olympians come back. They've got to take my spot. He took it this year, so OK ... I had three weeks of training ... It happens. Next year it's mine." R.C. Johnson (Photo/Jeff Beshey, The Guillotine)It's hard to doubt someone who has risen from a nobody in the sport in the eyes of many to a U.S. World Team member. Johnson started wrestling in high school and never placed in the state tournament. After graduating from Robinsdale Armstrong High School in 2000, Johnson was set to attend Augsburg College, where he planned to wrestle and play football. That summer, Johnson was encouraged by Minnesota's Greco-Roman coaches to wrestle at the Junior Nationals in Fargo, North Dakota. Johnson, who had never competed in a national event, ended up placing eighth in Fargo and soon Northern Michigan's USOEC Greco-Roman program came calling. Johnson was offered a full-ride scholarship and spending money to attend Northern Michigan and join the USOEC Greco-Roman program. "I got a call on Tuesday and I was there on Saturday," recalled Johnson. "I packed up all my stuff in three days. It's kind of funny ... I cancelled my Augsburg classes from Northern Michigan. Augsburg sent me a bill and I was like, 'Yeah, I'm not going there.'" Minnesota native Gordy Morgan, a former Gopher and 1996 Olympian in Greco-Roman, served as the head coach of the USOEC Greco-Roman program in Northern Michigan when Johnson arrived on campus in the fall of 2000. "It worked really well because Gordy Morgan has that Minnesota mentality," said Johnson. "It's just tough, hard-nosed wrestling. It was good for me. It fit my style. About a year and a half later, Ivan Ivanov came ... and he has that really technical style. That was kind of cool because I got the best of both worlds. From there on out, I really started picking up on the wrestling game." Johnson steadily climbed the U.S. ladder in Greco-Roman. By 2005, he had established himself as one of the top five wrestlers in the country at 96 kg. He placed third at the Trials in 2006, 2007, and 2008 before eventually winning the Trials in 2009. R.C. Johnson made the U.S. World Team in 2009 (Photo/Jeff Beshey, The Guillotine)"It was an 'about time' type of thing," said Johnson of making his first U.S. World Team in 2009. "I had been knocking on the door for a while. I had a really good year of training. It was time. I didn't feel like it was a big shock or surprise to me or anything. It was just another tournament, I won it, and I'm moving on to the Worlds." Even though Johnson was one and done at the 2009 World Championships, he is grateful for the experience. "The experience was great," said Johnson. "It's one of those things that very few people get to experience. Obviously, I didn't wrestle very well because I didn't win. Wrestling is fickle like that. If you win, you wrestled well. If you didn't win, you didn't wrestle well." Johnson graduated with a computer science degree from Northern Michigan in 2004. After graduation, he made the decision to move to Colorado to continue his education and pursue his wrestling goals while training at the U.S. Olympic Training Center. "Honestly, I wanted to stay in Michigan," said Johnson. "I think the training was a better fit for me at the time. But there wasn't a Ph.D program or even a master's program for me to get into. So I said, 'OK, since I'm going to Colorado, I'll apply to schools in the area that have Ph.D programs' ... I got accepted, so I was in Colorado." He has been there ever since. Johnson is currently working on his dissertation in computer science, which he says he hopes to have completed by next year. "Wrestling really slows that down as far as the time I can actually spend on writing the paper and doing the research," said Johnson, who lists solving complex equations as one of his hobbies. "The professor I work with is really understanding and willing to work with me, so it's great." He's not yet sure what career path he wants to take after he finishes his dissertation. He's thinking of possibly doing research or maybe even teaching. "It's open ended ... I'm young," said Johnson. Justin Ruiz defeated R.C. Johnson to make the 2010 U.S. World Team (Photo/Jeff Beshey, The Guillotine)As for his wrestling career, Johnson plans to compete through 2012. He says that he has no desire to wrestle after that. He has his sights set on making the 2012 U.S. Olympic Team. Chances are the road to the 2012 Olympic Games in London will run through five-time U.S. World Team member Justin Ruiz. Ruiz knows that Johnson is very formidable opponent and someone he can never look past. Said Ruiz of Johnson, "He's strong. He's athletic. He has a really good grip. He's good at hand fighting. He's pretty good at slowing people down and controlling some of those positions on the feet, which makes it harder for some people to score." Johnson's focus, however, is not on Ruiz. "I don't think it's necessarily about getting past Justin Ruiz or getting over the hump," said Johnson. "I've just got to win the tournament. Who knows ... He may get knocked off and then I've got to beat whoever else they put out in front of me. I don't see him as an obstacle at all for me." This story also appears in the June 18 issue of The Guillotine. The Guillotine has been covering amateur wrestling in Minnesota since 1971. Its mission is to report and promote amateur wrestling at all levels -- from youth and high school wrestling to college and international level wrestling. Subscribe to The Guillotine.

Jake Deitchler stole the show in Las Vegas. Jake Deitchler became the first high school wrestler to make the U.S. Olympic Wrestling Team in 32 years (Photo/The Guillotine)The precocious 18-year-old from Ramsey, Minnesota, became the first high school wrestler to make the U.S. Olympic Wrestling Team in 32 years. I have to admit, as a Minnesota native who has followed Deitchler for several years and admired his abilities, I didn't give him much of a chance to come through the 66 kg meat-grinder bracket that included a two-time World bronze medalist (Harry Lester), U.S. Olympian (Oscar Wood), U.S. Nationals champion (Mark Rial), Turkish Nationals champion (Faruk Sahin), and a former U.S. World Team member (Marcel Cooper). In my eyes, Deitchler was still a few years away from contending for a spot on a U.S. World or Olympic Team. Everyone knew this was Harry Lester's weight class and his year to win a gold medal at the Olympic Games in Beijing. Apparently someone forgot to give the memo to Deitchler. After Deitchler upset Lester in a thrilling three-period semifinal match that sent shockwaves through the Thomas & Mack Center, I made my way down to the press workroom where there were several wrestling writers and photographers present. I overheard the following exchange between a wrestling photographer and a wrestling writer. Photographer: "A high school kid just beat Harry Lester!" Writer: "Holy $%#@!" That 'high school kid,' who is technically not a 'high school kid' anymore since he graduated from Anoka High School in early April, instantly became the talk of the tournament after upsetting the 24-year-old Lester. Deitchler then followed that performance up with a gutty, come-from-behind victory over a tough Faruk Sahin in the finals. It's hard to put into perspective the significance of Deitchler's achievement. The fact that he became just the third high-schooler ever to make a U.S. Olympic Wrestling Team gives Joe Blow who doesn't follow the sport of wrestling but hears about it on the local news or reads it in the newspaper, an idea of the significance of the achievement. But what is most impressive about the achievement, and what Joe Blow does not know or understand, is that Deitchler beat the U.S's best hope to bring a home a gold medal in Beijing, Harry Lester, someone who many viewed as untouchable. Prior to losing to Deitchler, Lester had not lost to an American wrestler since 2005. I can tell you that USA Wrestling national Greco-Roman coach Steve Fraser did not see this coming. This is a quote from Fraser just prior to the 2008 U.S. Olympic Team Trials published on TheMat.com: "Harry Lester has a great opportunity to become a gold medalist for the USA in Beijing. He is one of the most tenacious wrestlers I have ever known. Harry is a great competitor and is extremely talented. The key for Harry will be to manage his weight properly and stay healthy for the summer." I guess Harry Lester won't have to worry about managing his weight properly and staying healthy for the summer anymore. Jake Deitchler has thrived under the tutelage of former Olympians Dan Chandler and Brandon Paulson (Photo/The Guillotine)I don't think enough credit can be given to Deitchler's coaches, Brandon Paulson and Dan Chandler. Paulson and Chandler not only helped Deitchler improve technically and tactically, but also helped instill the confidence in him that he can win at the senior level. Paulson, a 1996 Olympic silver medalist who won a national title in each of USA Wrestling's age group levels, started working with Deitchler in 2004. Chandler, who has served as head coach of the U.S. Olympic Greco-Roman Team, has been churning out Minnesota Greco-Roman stars for over two decades. Deitchler, who won three state titles for Anoka High School, signed to wrestle collegiately at the University of Minnesota. He is the prized recruit (along with Blair Academy's Mario Mason) of the No. 1 recruiting class in the country. He will be wrestling for a collegiate wrestling program that has won three national titles over the past eight years. He will be close to home. And he will have his Greco-Roman coaches, Brandon Paulson and Dan Chandler, who also wrestled collegiately at the University of Minnesota, nearby. Plus, he will get a great education in the process. From an outsider's perspective, it seems like a perfect fit. Still, there are others who believe Deitchler would be better off focusing strictly on Greco-Roman at Northern Michigan, which has a Greco-Roman program at the United States Olympic Education Center (USOEC), or training full-time at the U.S. Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs. "We tried to get (Deitchler) into our program," said Northern Michigan (USOEC) assistant coach Jim Gruenwald at the 2008 U.S. Nationals. "He's a stud … He's in high school and he's in the national finals … That's the kind of kid we want in our program. But he signed with Minnesota, so we're professional about it, we'll leave him alone, until he decides to …" Jake Deitchler, who will wrestle at the University of Minnesota, has excelled in all three styles of wrestling (Photo/The Guillotine)Is Deitchler making the right decision to attend the University of Minnesota, where he will be focusing almost primarily on a wrestling style that is not Greco-Roman and is not even contested in the Olympic Games? Obviously, Deitchler feels that he is making the best decision for him at this point in his life. And who can really question the kid? He proved on June 14 that you don't have to be a full-time, year-round Greco-Roman wrestler to make a U.S. Olympic Team. But as we have seen over the years, Greco-Roman success does not exactly translate into collegiate success. And visa-versa. In fact, of the seven Greco-Roman champions crowned at the 2008 U.S. Olympic Team Trials, only one of those wrestlers, Brad Vering, was an NCAA All-American. Interestingly, the last two collegiate wrestlers to make a U.S. Olympic Greco-Roman Team, Brandon Paulson (1996) and Garrett Lowney (2000 and 2004), both wrestled collegiately at the University of Minnesota. Paulson and Lowney were both NCAA All-Americans for the Gophers, but neither won an NCAA title. However, it's important to note that both Paulson and Lowney were undersized in their respective college weight classes. Paulson, who won an Olympic silver medal at the 1996 Olympics competed internationally at 114.5 pounds and collegiately at 118 pounds. Lowney, a two-time Olympian who won a bronze medal at the 2000 Olympics, competed internationally at 211.5 and 213.75 pounds and collegiately at heavyweight, where the maximum weight is 285 pounds. There is no reason to believe Deitchler won't be successful at the Division I level. Because like Paulson and Lowney before him, Deitchler's wrestling resume includes numerous achievements in folkstyle and freestyle that can all but match his achievements in Greco-Roman, of course with the exception of his most recent success in Greco-Roman on the senior level. In folkstyle, Deitchler was a three-time high school state champion (2006-2008), NHSCA Nationals champion in 2007, and won 111 high school wrestling matches in a row. In freestyle, Deitchler was a Junior Nationals runner-up in both 2006 and 2007. But before we start speculating how great this kid can be in collegiate wrestling and putting undue pressure on him to succeed at the next level, let's first let him be a typical 18-year-old kid and enjoy his last summer before college. Oh wait, I forgot, Jake Deitchler is anything but a typical 18-year-old kid. After all, a typical 18-year-old kid doesn't spend his summer wrestling in the Olympic Games. Please Note: This story also appears in the June 27 issue of The Guillotine. The Guillotine has been covering amateur wrestling in Minnesota since 1971. Its mission is to report and promote amateur wrestling at all levels -- from youth and high school wrestling to college and international level wrestling. For information on The Guillotine, Click HERE.

TDR returns to our home Brute Adidas Studios this week for another great show. Before we get in to who will be on this weeks show I would like to speak to you on something of great importance. Our wrestling Heritage- recently came under attack by mother nature in the guise of one of the greatest floods in North America's History. Waterloo, Iowa and its residents along with the Dan Gable International Wrestling Institute and Museum experienced well over $500,000 in damage and will take months of laborious cleanup and restoration to restore this once great repository of our rich history. Many have turned out to help with muscle and some with donations. the museum and our sports heritage need you now! Please help: Dan Gable International Wrestling Institute and Museum 303 Jefferson St., Waterloo, IA 50701 319.233.0745 • fax 319.233.3477 info@wrestlingmuseum.org Executive Director of the DGIWIM, Mike Chapman said, "We're down but not out, far from it. We are wrestlers and wrestlers never give up. We appreciate the wrestling communities support as we struggle to rebuild the heritage of the museum." Any and all donations will be appreciate by this not for profit business which had no flood insurance. This week on TDR: Phil Davis- NCAA Champion and All American for Troy Sunderland's Nittany Lions Phil will answer the burning question, "What set PSU apart from other schools?" Why Troy Sunderland? How do you feel when compared to one of the greats Kerry McKoy. Phil Davis (Harrisburg, Pa.) was honored as the team's Most Outstanding Wrestler, capping a stellar career that saw the Harrisburg native cement his place in Penn State's history books. A number of Nittany Lions received awards at the annual event. Davis received two awards at the banquet. He took home the William Neidig Award given to the Most Outstanding Wrestler after an outstanding senior year that saw him accomplish so much: Davis went 26-1 and ends his career with a 116-20 career record, ninth all-time at Penn State; he won the 2008 NCAA National Championship at 197 pounds, becoming PSU's 21st NCAA champ and the 18th individual to win a crown; he became only the fourth four-time All-American in Penn State's 100 years of wrestling; his 58 dual meet wins is fourth all-time; his 30 points is sixth all-time; and his 136 career matches is 20th all-time. Davis also won the Charles M. Speidel Award, given to the senior with the most career dual meet wins (58). Dan Wirnsberger- Head Coach of the Bison of Bucknell. The Bucknell wrestling program will welcome eight newcomers to the squad for the 2008-09 season, head coach Dan Wirnsberger announced on Wednesday. The recruiting class, which is the third for Wirnsberger as the front man for the Bison, is comprised of student-athletes from five different states, including three from Pennsylvania, two from New Jersey and one each from New York, Ohio and Virginia. "I am excited to bring these young men into our Bison wrestling family," said Wirnsberger. "It is a talented group, but more importantly, these young men are scholar-athletes. They understand the importance of higher education and the commitment needed to reach their individual athletic goals. I look forward to the development process." Kevin Dresser- Head Coach of the Hokies of Virginia Tech. Dresser became the 12th man to lead the Tech program since its inception in 1920 and has made an immediate impact on the program. Although the new staff posted just six wins in the first season, it's the progress made that has fans and supporters excited about the future. Dresser's incoming recruiting class last season featured the No. 1 overall national prospect and the class as a whole was ranked as high as No. 3 nationally. This years class is one to be proud of as well. We'll talk to Kevin about Tony Robie's induction in to the Edinboro Hall of fame as well. Rashad Evans- (Mich. State) now one of the fastest rising stars in the UFC. Rashad will make his next appearance in the UFC against former Champion Chuck Liddell. In his first fight since a stunning victory over Wanderlei Silva at UFC 79, UFC legend Chuck "The Iceman" Liddell is back to face undefeated light heavyweight contender Rashad "Sugar" Evans. Will Evans plow through Liddell to jump to the top of the 205-lb. rankings? Or will Liddell successfully continue his crusade to regain the UFC Light Heavyweight Title? Let's get Rashad's take on this great fight. UFC 88: BREAKTHROUGH - Saturday, September 6, live on Pay-Per-View from Atlanta, GA. Jason Liles-Head Coach of the Jacks of South Dakota State University. Now in his 15th season Coach Liles has not only inked a new deal with Brute Adidas but also has some strong young recruits coming into the program this fall. The winningest wrestler in South Dakota high school history and a junior college All-American have each signed a National Letter of Intent, indicating they will enroll at South Dakota State University in the fall and compete for the Jackrabbits, head coach Jason Liles announced. Signing recently were Zach Blindert of Salem and Kevin Kelly, a Chicago native who previously wrestled at Iowa Central Community College. Blindert wrapped up his career at McCook Central High School with a state-record 275 victories, breaking the mark previously held by former Jackrabbit Dan Bonte. Projected to wrestle either at 184 or 197 pounds, Blindert finished third in the 171-pound weight class as a prep senior. He also was runner-up at 160 pounds as a junior and placed third as a sophomore at 140 pounds. A member of the National Honor Society and academic all-state selection, Blindert plans to major in ag engineering. Kelly wrestled at Brother Rice High School in Chicago, where he was a state qualifier, before moving on to Iowa Central Community College in Fort Dodge. Despite wrestling up a weight class or two, Kelly earned junior college All-America honors with an eighth-place finish in the 197-pound division. Kelly is expected to move down to either the 174- or 184-pound weight class for the Jackrabbits, while pursuing his degree in health, physical education and recreation. Blindert and Kelly will join a Jackrabbit recruiting class that includes South Dakota standouts Brock Edgar (Redfield), Aaron Pickrel (Watertown) and Dustin Walraven (Huron). Also in the 2008 recruiting class are Kansas stalwarts Nick Flynn (Lansing) and Scott Elliott (Derby). CD Mock- Head Coach of the Tar heels of Carolina. If there is one team in the Carolina's doing something well its being done by the Tarheels. Head Coach CD Mock has the recruits coming in, the talent in great assistants and the bright future that lies ahead. North Carolina's wrestling program has signed eight prep standouts from six different states to National Letters of Intent, head coach C. D. Mock announced Monday. This group, which features seven wrestlers in the lighter weight groups, will join the Tar Heel program in the fall and will be eligible to compete for Carolina in the 2008-09 season. "With the exception of heavyweight, we decided to focus our recruiting this year on building depth at the lighter weights," said Mock. "We are only losing one starter this year, so it is a great opportunity for us to add depth and build for the future. In addition to the impressive wrestling credentials this group brings to Chapel Hill, I am particularly excited about their character and enthusiasm about being Tar Heels. They will fit in very well with the group we have coming back. My assistants did an exceptional job bringing in this group of young men." Coaches don't forget we kick off our new High School Wrestler of the month program in the coming weeks. This is your chance to nominate and recognize an excellent student athlete who has gone above and beyond. Check out the Takedownradio.com web site and WIN Magazines full page ad's for more details. Our thanks go to our presenting sponsors: Resilite, WIN Magazine, Brute/Adidas, Sunflower Wrestling Supply and Intermatwrestle.com

State College, Pa. -- LionHeart Management proudly announces the signing of Elite XC fighter Paul Bradley to an exclusive MMA career management contract. Bradley who was seen this season on Spike TV's "The Ultimate Fighter," will represent LionHeart and train at the LionHeart MMA complex in State College, Pa. Currently signed to a 3 fight contract with Elite XC, Bradley is undefeated in the cage with a professional record of 5-0. LionHeat owner, Chad Dubin, who signed NCAA Wrestling Champion Phil Davis earlier this month, believes Bradley will bring an important level of national recognition to his new team. "Signing a fighter with Paul's reputation and experience is a big step forward for us. With the national exposure of an Elite XC contract, there were plenty of other opportunities available to him. The fact that Paul chose to sign with LionHeart means we must be doing something right." Bradley is an Iowa State High School Wrestling Champion and a two-time All-American wrestler at The University of Iowa. "I'm really excited about signing with Lionheart and I am looking forward to representing them in the octagon. This is a great place for me to further my career as a fighter and I really appreciate the opportunity Chad has given me." Also signing with LionHeart this week is Lou Armezzani from Scranton, Pa. Armezzani joins LionHeart with a 2-0 record as an amateur and plans to transition into the professional ranks within the year.

FAIRFAX, Va. -- George Mason wrestling head coach Mark Weader announced today his incoming freshman class for the 2008-09 season. After earning a Top-30 ranking by InterMat for last year's recruiting class, Weader and assistant coach James Torres have put together a talented class of eight student-athletes to bolster a team that earned its most wins since the 1991-92 campaign last season. Since announcing the signing of three-time New York State placewinner Brian Benton in early November, the Patriots have added seven more student-athletes to their incoming class, including two nationally-ranked wrestlers in Maurice Fleming and Kramer Whitelaw. Both Fleming and Whitelaw are local products, hailing from nearby Maryland. "This is a great recruiting class," Weader said. "This group of wrestlers has been extremely successful both on the mat and in the classroom. These student-athletes will make a significant impact on our program." A native of Pasadena, Md., Fleming wrestled at Northeast High School, where he compiled an impeccable 132-11 overall record while winning three state championships. A three-time All-American, Fleming ended the 2007-08 season ranked sixth in the nation by Amateur Wrestling News and 10th by Wrestling International Newsmagazine. He finished in third place at the 2007 NHSCA Junior Nationals and was ranked 60th overall by InterMat in its list of top recruits for 2008-09. Another highly decorated wrestler joining the team is Jake Bohn from Kentwood, Mich. Wrestling for East Kentwood High School, Bohn was the runner-up at the Michigan Division I State Championships this past year at 160 pounds. He improved at the state tournament each year, finishing in fifth place as a junior and seventh as a sophomore. A 2007 Junior National All-American, Bohn was the 2007 Men's Sombo National Champion and finished in second place at the FILA Junior Nationals in Greco-Roman wrestling. Another wrestler joining the team with great promise is Bagna Tovuujav, who wrestled at St. Benedict's Prep in Newark, N.J. Tovuujav claimed the National Prep Championship at 171 pounds as a senior, following up third- and sixth-place finishes during his junior and sophomore seasons, respectively. A native of Ulaanbaatar City, Mongolia, Tovuujav finished in fourth place at the 2007 Beast of the East Tournament. A graduate of McDonogh School, Whitelaw hails from Sparrows Point, Md. He finished his senior season ranked 23rd in the nation by Wrestling USA at 160 pounds. A 2006 Cadet Greco All-American, Whitelaw earned three top-five National Prep Championships finishes during his career. In 2007, he finished eighth at the highly-competitive Beast of the East Tournament. Completing the class are three state placewinners in Josh Deel, from Brooke Point High School in Stafford, Va.; Peter Deutsch, from Columbia City High School in Columbia City, Ind.; and Hunter Manspile, from Northside High School in Roanoke, Va. Deel finished fifth as a senior and eighth as a junior at 145 pounds at the Virginia AAA State Championships. Also wrestling at 145 pounds, Deutsch finished sixth as a senior and eighth as a junior at the Indiana State Championships. Manspile earned a pair of sixth-place finishes at the heavyweight class at the Virginia AA State Championships during his final two prep seasons.

This week's edition of "On the Mat" will feature Mark Ironside and Harley Race. Ironside was a four-time All-American and a two-time NCAA champion for the University of Iowa. During his career with the Hawkeyes he compiled a 127-10 record, ending his career with a 67 match winning streak. Ironside was also the 1998 recipient of the Dan Hodge Trophy, given annually to the nation's most dominant college wrestler. Race is a member of the George Tragos/Lou Thesz Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame located in the Dan Gable International Wrestling Institute and Museum. Known as "Handsome Harley Race" for much of his career, the Missouri native was one of the ring's best brawlers, taking on everyone from coast to coast. A true legend in the professional wrestling business, Race was an eight-time NWA World champion. "On the Mat" is a weekly wrestling radio program that airs every Wednesday night. This week's broadcast can be heard live from 6-7 p.m. Central Standard Time. The Dan Gable International Wrestling Institute and Museum in Waterloo, Iowa, hosts the show. "On the Mat" can be heard live on the Internet at www.kcnzam.com or locally in Northeast Iowa on 1650, The Fan. Feel free to e-mail radio@wrestlingmuseum.org with questions or comments about the show.

COLUMBUS, Ohio -– The celebration of winning individual national titles continues for J Jaggers and Mike Pucillo, members of the Ohio State wrestling team. Jaggers and Pucillo will throw out the ceremonial first pitch at Progressive Field in Cleveland, Ohio, Friday when Major League Baseball's Cleveland Indians host the Cincinnati Reds at 7:05 p.m. Jaggers, an upcoming senior, and Pucillo, a soon-to-be junior, are from Northeast Ohio. An NCAA champion at 141 pounds, Jaggers hails from Northfield and attended St. Peter Chanel High School. Pucillo, the national title winner at 184 pounds, is a native of Strongsville and prepped at Walsh Jesuit High School. Jaggers and Pucillo became the Buckeyes' first national champions since 2004 and it was the first time since 1993 Ohio State had two individual national champions in the same year. The duo helped the Buckeyes cap a historical season in which they were the NCAA runner-up, the best standing in program history.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. -- The schematic design for a new wrestling facility was approved today (June 19) by the University of Michigan Board of Regents. The new building will be built adjacent to the Preston Robert Tisch Tennis and the Donald R. Shephard Women's Gymnastics facilities on South State Street. The $5.5 million, 18,000-gross-square-foot building was designed by Jickling Powell Associates, Inc. of Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. "We are very excited about this new facility. I think it is going to take our program to a new level," said Joe McFarland, head wrestling coach. "We really needed more space, and we needed all the elements in place that we felt would make us a national championship team. This is going to help us reach that level." The new facility will include a two-story indoor practice area with three regulation wrestling mats. It also will feature athletic medicine areas, strength and conditioning space, a locker room and storage area. The design reflects Michigan's athletic tradition and will complement surrounding athletic facilities. The building materials will be a combination of brick and metal with the main entrance highlighted by a curved two-story wall of glass. On the south façade of the facility, a series of large windows will face a natural wooded wetland area. A standing seam metal roof will be highlighted by a ribbon window that wraps around the entire structure. Construction is scheduled to be completed in Fall of 2009.