OSU Wrestling (2008 and 2009 NCAA Runners-up)

[BuckWrestler141]

Dispatch

8/18/06

He had best not stay with the HammerHouse training system Coleman/Randelman if he wants to have any success. With his strong wrestling background it makes sense to train with those guys for like 1-2 weeks to learn how to turn the wrestling skills into fighting skills. Although he is toast if he doesn't evolve after that with a better training team.

 

[osugrad21]

Great find by NDC...

Link

August 28, 2006
Feature Article by Gregg Henry

Entering his first season in Columbus, Ohio, new head coach, Tom Ryan, expects everyone to be ready to compete and battle for a starting position as a new era in Buckeye wrestling is underway. Coach Ryan is looking to rebuild a program that has struggled in recent years, evidenced by the Buckeyes 45th place NCAA finish last year after an 11th place finish at the Big 10 tournament and a 0-8 conference dual mark. The Buckeye staff does welcome back some excellent talent, either from redshirts or injury, and also has generated some excitement by the quality of incoming freshman and transfers that will dot the OSU roster. The following is a detailed analysis of the expected 2007 line-up.
125 lbs:
Projected Starter: Returning after competing in minimal action last season is Jermaine Jones, West Chester, PA. Jones only competed in 4 matches, splitting them at the Michigan State Open. Jermaine did not see action in 2005 but did provide an early glimpse of his potential as a freshman in 2004, when he won 14 bouts on the year and placed 4th at the Oklahoma Gold Classic. Not really sure what to expect out of Jermaine at this point in his career, but he will have to be focused and ready to compete if he has plans on maintaining his starting position at 125.

Depth: Challenging Jones for the starting position will be incoming freshman Will Livingston, Kittatinny, NJ, who was a 2006 New Jersey state champion and placed in all 4 years of competition. Livingston is a highly regarded prospect and it would not be a surprise to see him in the Buckeye starting line-up. Also competing at 125 will be Anner Arroyo, Glassboro, NJ who in spot duty last year went 1-6 competing in Big 10 dual meets.
133 lbs:
Projected Starter: Another spirited battle is in the cards at 133 pounds. The current favorite is the returning starter at 141 from last year in T.J. Enright, Galloway, OH. (#21 in WR.com 6/28 rankings) Enright was 15-14 (2-6 in Big 10 duals) last season but was unable to place in the Big 10 Championships and did not qualify for his 2nd consecutive NCAA tournament. T.J. did have some impressive results last year, including a 6th place finish at the Southern Scuffle, which included wins over nationally-ranked Kyle Larson of Oregon State and Manuel Rivera of Minnesota. Enright will look to regain a measure of success he enjoyed at 133 in his first season, where he placed 6th at the Big 10 and qualified for the NCAA tournament, while compiling a 31-13 record on the season.
Depth: Not willing to give up his 133 starting assignment just yet is Reece Humphrey, Indianapolis, IN. Humphrey, competing as a true freshman, slugged his way to a 26-16 record, placing 8th in the Big 10 Championships, and earned a wildcard bid to the NCAA’s, after teammate Jeff Jaggers had to withdraw due to injury. During the season, Reece finished 3rd at the Michigan State Open, went 4-2 at the Las Vegas Invitational, including a win over All-American Tyler McCormick of Missouri, and placed 4th at the Southern Scuffle, including a win over All-American Matt Keller of Chattanooga. Also looking to gain mat time is Eric Wanner, Lewis Center, OH.
141 lbs:
Projected Starter: Shifting down a weight class is Jeff Jaggers, Northfield, OH. (#8 in WR.com 6/28 rankings) Jaggers was putting together a tremendous freshman season until injury ended his campaign at the Big 10 Championships. Jeff was 26-7 (6-2 in Big 10 duals) on the year and tied for the team lead in victories. Jaggers began the season by capturing the title at the Michigan State Open and also finished 2nd at the Southern Scuffle, losing in the finals 1-0 to national champion, Dustin Schlatter of Minnesota. Jaffers arrived at the Ohio State campus as a highly-regarded 4X state champion with a career record of 166-3. In his first season, Jeff was well on his way to achieving his potential before the unfortunate injury, but now that he is back at 100% and moving down a weight, he should be even more of a force this season and should be expected to make a run at an All-American placing.
Depth: Likely to assist here if required during the season will be one of the grapplers currently listed at 133. Matt Fleming, Plain City, OH, competed here last year and recorded a 0-4 record on the season.
149 lbs:
Projected Starter: Back and ready to roll at 149 after a redshirt season is Jason Johnstone, Masillon, OH. (#8 in WR.com 6/28 rankings) In his first season of varsity action in 2005, Johnstone went 13-20 as he spent part of the year at 149 before dropping to fill in at 141 to fill in for Jeff Jaggers. Jason earned an 8th place finish at the Michigan State Open at 149 in his first official Buckeye action. Last year, Johnstone competed at the Kent State Open, where he won his 1st 3 bouts before having to default out of the tournament. Now that he is back at his initial weight, Johnstone is expected to have a strong season. But, in order to maintain his starting position it is likely that he will have to fend off a challenge from a talented incoming freshman.
Depth: Looking to step in immediately and start for the Buckeyes is Lance Palmer, Lakewood, OH. Palmer arrives in Columbus as one of the nation’s top recruits after he earned 4 Ohio state championships and went 150-6 in his tremendous high school career. Lance also has a Senior Nationals title on his resume and was named an ASICS 1st Team All-American. This weight class should showcase a heated battle to gain the coveted starting position and should generate a great deal of excitement for Buckeye fans.
157 lbs:
Projected Starter: Following in Coach Ryan’s footsteps, arriving from Hofstra is Chris Vondruska, Bay Village, OH. (#14 at 165 in WR.com 6/28 rankings) Chris is transferring to Ohio State to attend graduate school and to use his final year of eligibility. Last year, Chris spent the season up a weight at 165 pounds to fill a need in the Hofstra line-up, and did very well, as he earned a CAA conference championship. On the year, Vondruska went 25-11 and won 2 bouts at the NCAA tournament. The transfer of Chris to Columbus fills a need in the Ohio State line-up and I expect that Chris has his sights set on improving his NCAA win total in 2007, although he will be stepping into one of the Big 10’s toughest weight classes.
Depth: After splitting time at 149/157 last year, Jordin Humphrey, Indianapolis, IN will stay at 157 on a permanent basis this year and is likely to supply solid depth behind Vondruska. Jordin is the older brother of fellow Buckeye, Reece Humphrey and son of former Ohio State wrestler, Jim Humphrey. In a reserve role, Humphrey was 6-5 on the season on the year, as he won 4 bouts at the Michigan State Open and 2 bouts at the Southern Scuffle.
165 lbs:
Projected Starter: Another big-time prospect looking to make his mark early in his Buckeye career is Ryan Patrovich, Islip, NY. Ryan arrives at Ohio State as a 2X New York state champion and a 1X runner-up, in addition to his 2nd place finish to Penn State recruit, David Rella, at Senior Nationals. Patrovich will step into a conference weight class that looks to be relatively wide open after the top two slots and he is capable of earning an NCAA bid in his initial season. One additional note of interest is that Ryan’s brother, Mike, who is at Hofstra, could also end up competing at 165 this season, if he does receive his NCAA waiver allowing him a 6th year of competition.
Depth: Prepping for additional mat time is Zach Craiglow, Lancaster, OH, who was 1-6 last season, competing at the Michigan State Open in addition to stepping up and filling in as needed at 174 and 184 last year in Big 10 dual meets.
174 lbs:
Projected Starter: A bright spot for the Buckeyes last year was the overall performance of Blake Mauer, Evansville, IN. (#15 in WR.com 6/28 rankings) Mauer rang up a 17-12 overall record, and earned his 1st trip to the NCAA tournament after placing 7th in the Big 10. In his NCAA consolation bout with Gabe Dretsch of Minnesota, originally Mauer was ruled the victor but the bout was protested by the Gopher coaches and finally in the end, the NCAA officials elected to re-wrestle the bout with Mauer coming up short, ending his NCAA tournament at 0-2. Early in the year, Blake had a nice run at the Las Vegas Invitational where he captured 5th place. All in all a typical freshman type of a season, some nice wins, some tough losses but anytime you can make the NCAA trip in your first year of eligibility it bodes well for future success.
Depth: Two grapplers will be battling it out behind Mauer in Dominic Mehling, Columbus, OH and Wes Bergman, Oak Harbor, OH, and the brother of OSU 197 pounder, J.D. Bergman. Mehling was 2-4 last year competing at the Michigan State Open (including a 6-5 win over teammate Bergman) and Southern Scuffle, while Bergman was 0-2 on the year, seeing time only at the Michigan State Open.
184 lbs:
Projected Starter: Yet another weight class that should feature a spirited battle to determine the starting position is at 184. The current leader is the returning starter Alex Picazo, Columbus, OH. (#16 in WR.com 6/28 rankings) Alex is coming off a strong season where he collected 22 victories against 17 defeats, which included a 3rd place finish at the Michigan State Open, an 8th place showing at the Southern Scuffle, but a disappointing ending as he was unable to place at the Big 10 Championships. Picazo did earn some impressive wins in Big 10 dual action as he defeated nationally ranked foes, Mike Tamillow of Northwestern and Tyrel Todd of Michigan. Heading into his final year at Ohio State, Picazo is looking to gain his 1st trip to the NCAA Championships and in order to do just that, he will have to fend off the challenge of an incoming talented transfer.
Depth: After spending last season redshirting while at Hofstra, Mike Pucillo, Strongsville, OH is back home and poised to make some noise for the Buckeyes. In action last year, Mike placed 7th at the East Stroudsburg Open, and earned a title at the Cleveland State Open. He arrived at Hofstra as a Senior Nationals Champ and an Ohio state champion in addition to being a 2X runner-up.
197 lbs:
Projected Starter: No questions asked at 197 as returning from redshirt will be J.D. Bergman, Oak Harbor, OH. (#3 in WR.com 6/28 rankings) Before taking last year as a redshirt season, J.D. had already compiled a stellar collegiate resume. Included in his accomplishments is a 7 match win streak that led to a 3rd place finish at the NCAA championships in his freshman season after J.D. was tripped up in 1st round action. He completed the year at 32-15 overall and led the team with 12 wins by fall as a true freshman. As a sophomore, Bergman went 32-9, finished 2nd at the Big 10 Championships, but was upset at the NCAA tournament and did not place. In the early part of the season, J.D. claimed a title at the Michigan State Open, a 3rd at the Las Vegas Invitational, and a runner-up placing at Midlands. This past May, Bergman finished 4th at the US World Team Trials, which included a win over top-ranked Phil Davis of Penn State, who Bergman also defeated in his sophomore season. There is no doubt that Bergman is a national title contender and will be a leader for this improving Ohio State squad.
Depth: Handling the back-up duties behind Bergman will be a pair of incoming transfers in Jason Cook (Campbell) and Zach Weinrich (Roger Williams). Cook recorded an overall 22-15 record last year at Campbell, 13-6 in dual meets, and 0-2 at the CAA Championships. Jason is originally out of New Carlisle, OH, and had state finishes of 4th and 6th as an Ohio school boy, he will arrive at Ohio State with sophomore eligibility. Weinrich was the first freshman in the history of Roger Williams to claim a New England Championship as he won the title at 184 pounds. On the season, Zach was 34-10 and earned a trip to the Division III National Championships where he went 1-2. Weinrich was named the New England Rookie of the Year and like Cook he will have sophomore eligibility.
HWY:
Projected Starter: The 2nd returning All-American on the Buckeye squad is last year’s 8th place finisher, Kirk Nail, Hilliard, OH. (#3 in WR.com 6/28 rankings) Nail finished the year at 18-11 and in a wide open weight class he got hot at the right time and put together a strong NCAA tournament run to earn his1st trip to the AA podium. On the way to his AA finish, Nail knocked off 2 seeded wrestlers in Adam LoPiccolo of American and Bode Ogunwole of Harvard. During the year, Kirk placed 5th at the Southern Scuffle and qualified for the NCAA field by logging a 6th place Big 10 finish after having to default out of the competition. Much like last year, the heavyweight class is wide open after the top spot and Nail will have a battle on his hands to make a 2nd trip to the AA stand in Detroit.
Depth: Moving up from 197 to provide depth is Corey Morrison, Shaker Heights, OH. Morrison stepped into the line-up as a true freshman and finished the year at 7-18 (2-10 in dual meets). Corey also competed at the Michigan State Open, earning a 6th place finish in addition to competing at the Las Vegas Invitational and the Southern Scuffle. Also available to assist is Josh Bartholomew, Columbus, OH, who went 4-6 last season.
Recap: The Buckeyes are quite capable of making a major improvement versus last year’s squad, as the roster is stocked pretty well with talented grapplers. Having two #3 ranked wrestlers at 197 and HWY is a great way to start, in addition to the return from injury of big-time talent, Jeff Jaggers. The transfer of Chris Vondruska will stabilize a weight class that had questions and the incoming freshman will be ready to issue a major challenge right out of the gate. A question still remains at 125 but capable wrestlers are in the mix. This program is clearly on the road back to becoming a force again in the Big 10 conference.

 

[osugrad21]

OZone

Wrestling
Summer Round Up
By Kevin Schlosser ​

While the first wrestling match is still two months away, the Ohio State wrestling program has been running full speed since the day Tom Ryan was named the head wrestling coach. After a difficult 2005-2006 season, the Buckeyes are hungry and looking to rebound in a big way. As the transition from Hellickson to Ryan has not been without some bumps in the road, the new coach has used every bump as a spring board for positive action.
Ryan?s immediate goal was to assemble the best coaching staff possible. In less than a month, former NCAA champs Joe Heskett and Tommy Rowlands, current US National team coaches Jim Humphrey and Lou Rosselli, as well as All American Ross Thatcher were on board and hard at work. Collectively, the consensus of the wrestling world believes Ohio State has one of the top five staffs in America. With an Olympic Training Center at his disposal and one of the most fertile recruiting bases in the country, Ohio State was making waves.
Next on the agenda for the new coach was meeting his team. Ryan?s wanted to impress upon his wrestlers a new code of beliefs and garner a recommitment to the program. Wrestling was no longer about the individual; it was now about the team. Tom Ryan wants to see ?boys become men on and off the mat.? While individual goals still mattered, the team was the primary focus. The better the team does, the better the individual will do and become. The better the individual becomes, the better the team will be in the end. ?Wrestling is family,? a simple philosophy on paper, but a way of life for the men who wear the scarlet and gray singlet and those who coach them.
With a recruiting class of one and several holes in the line up when he took the job, Coach Ryan recognized that Lance Palmer alone was not going to fill every need. With a limited amount of scholarship money available, the current wrestlers were the first to give back. Knowing where they lacked depth, the staff hit the road to see who else would fit into the program. Their diligence was rewarded when Ryan Patrovich and Will Livingston committed to Ohio State and Mike Pucillo and Chris Vondruska transferred in. Each of the five new wrestlers could start in the next two years if not sooner.
While many use the summers for rest, relaxation and recuperation; the Ohio State coaching staff embraced the additional time and seized the opportunity to improve. Whether it was individual competition or camps and clinics, the Buckeye coaches and wrestlers did not stop working. At the U.S. Freestyle Nationals, coaches Tommy Rowlands and Joe Heskett made the US National Team with second and third place finishes respectively. Current wrestler and returning All American J.D. Bergman finished fourth. At the same time, Coach Humphrey was coaching the US Junior World Team, Lou Rosselli was coaching the US Senior World Team, and Tom Ryan was holding down the fort in Columbus.
Throughout the summer, each coach worked a variety of camps and clinics on the road and reunited for the Ohio State Summer Wrestling Camps. In an interesting twist, retired head coach Russ Hellickson assisted the coaching staff and current wrestlers throughout the summer at the camps.
Tom Ryan has made it a point to promote Ohio State Wrestling and Ohio High School Wrestling. Opening the lines of communication to the high school wrestling community and making Ohio State Wrestling more visible was a priority since day one. The coaches have gone out of their way to personally contact hundreds of high school coaches, setting up regional clinics across the state and booking a ?home match? against Northwestern at Lakewood St. Edward?s High School. If there was something that Ohio State could do for Ohio Wrestling, Coach Ryan wanted to lead the charge. For the first time in a long time, Ohio State was listening when the relationships often take years to develop, but this staff has opened doors and rebuilt bridges as fast as you can say Tressel, Todd, Matta, or Foster.
The wrestling program had a down year in 2005-2006 as the Buckeyes finish 11th at the Big Ten Championships and 45th at the NCAA Tournament. A general lack of experience, injuries, and inconsistency turned a promising season into disappointment. At face value, the Buckeyes have no where to go this year but up, but a closer look at who is returning encourages nothing but optimism. The 2006-2007 Buckeyes are led by returning All Americans Kirk Nail (HWY) and J.D. Bergman (197) and feature NCAA qualifiers T.J. Enright (133), J. Jaggers (141), Chris Vondruska (157), and Blake Mauer (174).
In one summer, a program has been transformed with new leadership at the top. The hard work of the staff and team has replaced complacency with action. While many of the faces remain the same, these aren?t the same Buckeyes that ended season last year. While the 2005-2006 Buckeyes may not be Big Ten or NCAA Champions yet, they have the potential to score a number of points and do some damage at each tournament. The foundation has now been laid and the train is ready to leave the station.

 

[osugrad21]

OZone

Wrestling
Wrestleoff Results Helps Buckeyes Set Lineup
By Kevin Schlosser​

Wrestleoff Synopsis:
On Thursday night, the Ohio State Wrestling team hosted a first ever public wrestleoff at St. John?s Arena. The squad was divided into two separate teams, the Scarlet (S) and the Gray (G). The teams were coached by former captains Frank Romano (S) and Adam DiSabito (G). The results were as follows.
125: Will Livingston (S)(freshman) tech fall 17-0 vs. Owen Shaefer (G)(sophomore)
133: T.J. Enright (S)(r-senior) decision 3-2 vs. Reece Humphrey (G)(sophomore)
141: Uncontested
149: Lance Palmer (G)(freshman) decision 5-3 vs. Jason Johnstone (S)(r-junior)
157: Jordin Humphrey (S)(r-senior) decision 9-7 OT vs. Chris Vondruska (G)(g-senior)
165: Uncontested
174: Blake Mauer (G)(r-junior) major decision 18-6 vs. Wes Bergman (S)(r-junior)
184: Uncontested
197: J.D. Bergman (S)(r-senior) decision 13-7 vs. Zach Weinrich (G)(sophomore)
285 Corey Morrison (G)(sophomore) decision 8-3 OT vs. Kirk Nail (S)(r-junior)
Team Score: Scarlet 14-10 Grey
Wrestleoff Analysis:
Coach Ryan wanted to make Ohio State Wrestling more visible and the wrestleoffs were held in conjunction with the Ohio State High School Wrestling Coaches Association Clinic. A strong base of Ohio wrestlers on the roster led to some much-anticipated matches that did not disappoint.
After several years of having a revolving door at 125, freshman Will Livingston turned in one of the brightest performances of the evening. With a 17-0 technical fall over Owen Shaefer, the New Jersey native looks to open the season as the starter.
At 133, returning lettermen T.J. Enright edged Reece Humphrey 3-2. While dropping weight has been an issue for both wrestlers, both appeared in top shape and ready to wrestle.
There was no match at 141. As it stands, J. Jaggers appears to have a lock on this weight class coming off of knee surgery. There is a possibility that Reece Humphrey could move up to challenge Jaggers for this position.
The 149 weight class was one of the most anticipated matches of the evening as it featured freshman super stud Lance Palmer against returning letterman Jason Johnstone. Palmer lived up to the hype and came away with a hard fought 5-3 decision.
Two veteran wrestlers squared off at 157 as senior Jordin Humphrey met grad transfer Chris Vonduruska. In one of the most action packed matches of the night, Jordin Humphrey kicked it into overdrive in overtime to come away with a 9-7 victory. While Humphrey is the man now, he can expect continued competition from both Vonduruska and Johnstone.
The 165 weight class was uncontested. As it stands, freshman Ryan Patrovich looks to fill this spot when the season begins.
At 174, Blake Mauer cemented his position in the lineup by hosting his own takedown clinic against Wes Bergman. Mauer is a prime candidate to qualify and place at the Big Ten and NCAA tournaments.
The 184 pound weight class was the last uncontested match of the night. This would have been a contested weight class, but injuries have prevented both Alex Picazo and Mike Pucillo from being at full strength. Look for this to a competitive weight class throughout the season.
The 197 weight class featured the return of two-time All American, J.D. Bergman to action as he picked up a workmanlike 13-7 victory over Zach Weinrich. Look for Bergman to pick up where he left off as he is fully recovered and even hungrier.
The last and most surprising match of the evening was at heavyweight. In a stunner, sophomore Corey Morrison took returning All American Kirk Nail to overtime and took him down to his back to pull off the upset 8-3. Morrison should push Nail all year, but look for Nail to rebound after a trying week that began with his grandfather passing away.
At the end of the night, questions were answered and new ones were created. Their competitive nature and progress was evident as the night went on. While this team is young and several weight classes are still contested, there is experience, talent and depth. The staff wants to put the best team on the mat and believes they can qualify everyone for the NCAA tournament. The goal is to win championships, so qualifying everyone is the start.
The Buckeyes open the season on November 12 at the Michigan State open. Ohio State will bring their varsity team as well as a number of unattached wrestlers to compete. Consider this event as the final varsity wrestleoff as the best of the best will appear in the regular season home opener against Missouri on November 16.

 

[NOTREDAMECHIEF]

Ohio State Buckeye Wrestle-offs
Live from Columbus, Ohio
October 12, 2006

Referees: Sandy Cageao and Fred Feeney

Scarlet Coach: Frank Romano
Gray Coach: Adam DiSabato


125
Scarlet: Will Livingston (Kittatinny, NJ '06)
Gray: Owen Schaefer (Sandusky Perkins '04)

Notes: Jermaine Jones is MIA ... Livingston looks lethal on top ... Schaefer is a true sophomore so he will likely redshirt.

End of 1st Period: 9-0 Livingston (2:47 Riding Time)

End of 2nd Period: 14-0 Livingston (4:02 RT)

End of Match
Will Livingston (Scarlet) tf. Owen Schaefer (Gray) 17-0


133
Scarlet: Reece Humphrey (Lawrence North, IN '05)
Gray: T.J. Enright (Galloway Westland '03)

Notes: Saw both warming up, this will be a great match ... Both cut a lot of weight ... Both look very aggressive though ... Crowd getting into it ... Enright still stocky, Humphrey is slick ... Both equally aggressive ... Great movement and tie-ups by both wrestlers.

1st period
T2 Enright (2-0 Enright)
E1 Humphrey (2-1 Enright)

2nd Period
Enright chooses bottom
E1 Enright (3-1 Enright)
Stall warning Enright with :30 remaining

3rd Period
Humphrey chooses bottom
E1 Humphrey (3-2 Enright)
Humphrey has Enright in trouble. WOW. Enright manages to get out of bounds.
Enright in on a shot, Humphrey has a great sprawl.
Both VERY aggressive now.

End of match
T.J. Enright (Scarlet) dec. Reece Humphrey (Gray) 3-2


157
Scarlet: Jordin Humphrey (Lawrence North, IN '02)
Gray: Chris Vondruska (Lakewood Saint Edward '02)

Notes: Vondruska will be a great addition to the Buckeyes ... Both are redshirt seniors ... Vondruska ranked #8 by a preseason poll (not sure which one, but they announced it) ... Vondruska seems defensive-minded.

1st Period
T2 Vondruska (2-0 Vondruska)
Vondruska clinched RT
E1 Humphrey (2-1 Vondruska)
T2 Humphrey (3-2 Humphrey)
Humphrey cancels out RT
E1 Vondruska (3-3 tied)

2nd Period
Vondruska chooses bottom
E1 Vondruska (4-3 Vondruska)
T2 Vondruska (6-3 Vondruska)
E1 Humphrey (6-4 Vondruska)
Stalling warning on Humphrey

3rd Period
Humphrey chooses bottom
E1 Humphrey (6-5 Humphrey)
Stalling warning on Vondruska
Great action, they go out of bounds.
They get in a GREAT scramble. Humphrey was on his back but comes out with Vondruska on his back. WOW.
T2 Humphrey (7-6 Humphrey)
E1 Vondruska (7-7 tied)
Another great scramble. T2 is called but called off for Humphrey. It goes to OT...

Overtime
Again it is Humphrey for 2 and again no call. Out of bounds this time.
Humphrey is relentless.
T2 Humphrey

End of match
Jordin Humphrey (Scarlet) dec. Chris Vondruska (Gray) 9-7 OT


174
Scarlet: Wes Bergman (Oak Harbor '04)
Gray: Blake Maurer (Evansville Mater Dei, IN '04)

Notes: Both are redshirt sophomores ... Maurer ranked as high as #12 in preseason polls ... Bergman is tall for this weight.

1st period
T2 Maurer (2-0 Maurer)
E1 Bergman (2-1 Maurer)
T2 Maurer (4-1 Maurer)
Maurer has clinched RT
E1 Bergman (4-2 Maurer)
T2 Maurer (6-2 Maurer)
E1 Bergman (6-3 Maurer)
T2 Maurer (8-3 Maurer)

2nd Period
Maurer chooses bottom
E1 Maurer (9-3 Maurer)
T2 Maurer (11-3 Maurer)

3rd Period
Bergman chooses bottom
E1 Bergman (11-4 Maurer)
T2 Maurer (13-4 Maurer)
E1 Bergman (13-5 Maurer)
T2 Maurer (15-5 Maurer)
E1 Bergman (15-6 Maurer)
T2 Maurer (17-6 Maurer)

End of Match
Blake Maurer (Gray) md. Wes Bergman (Scarlet) 18-6


197
Scarlet: J.D. Bergman (Oak Harbor '03)
Gray: Zach Weinrich (Kittatinny, NJ '05?)

Notes: This is Bergman's first match back, watch out for a big throw ... Weinrich transferred from Roger Williams University and wrestled in high school with Will Livingston.

1st Period
T2 Bergman (2-0 Bergman)
E1 Weinrich (2-1 Bergman)
T2 Bergman (4-1 Bergman)
Bergman clinches RT
E1 Weinrich (4-2 Bergman)
T2 Bergman (6-2 Bergman)
E1 Weinrich (6-3 Bergman)

2nd Period
Bergman chooses bottom
E1 Bergman (7-3 Bergman)
T2 Bergman (9-3 Bergman)
R2 Weinrich (9-5 Bergman)
E1 Bergman (10-5 Bergman)

3rd Period
Weinrich chooses bottom
E1 Weinrich (10-6 Bergman)
T2 Bergman (12-6 Bergman)
E1 Weinrich (12-7 Bergman)

End of Match
J.D. Bergman (Scarlet) dec. Zach Weinrich (Gray) 13-7


149
Scarlet: Jason Johnstone (Massillon Perry '04)
Gray: Lance Palmer (Lakewood Saint Edward '06)

Notes: This is the match everyone has been waiting for.

1st period
Johnstone in on single. Palmer with good defense. Stalemate.
Stalling warning on Johnstone

2nd period
Palmer chooses bottom
E1 Palmer (1-0 Palmer)
T2 Johnstone (2-1 Johnstone)
R2 Palmer (3-2 Palmer)
3rd Period
Johnstone chooses neutral
Johnstone has RT
T2 Palmer (5-3 Palmer)

End of Match
Lance Palmer (Gray) dec. Jason Johnstone (Scarlet) 5-3


285
Scarlet: Kirk Nail (Hilliard Davidson '04)
Gray: Corey Morrison (Shaker Heights '05)

Notes: After a successful summer, Morrison came in and defeated Steve Dumas 16-6 for the right to face All-American Nail in this wrestle-off. It should be a good one.

1st Period
Not much action pummeling
T2 Nail right on edge (2-0)
E1 Morrison (2-1)

2nd Period
Nail chooses bottom
E1 Nail (3-1 Nail)
Nail countering Morrison shots very well, Morrison keeps up offensive pace
3rd Period
Morrison choose down
E1 Morrison (3-2 Nail)
Morrison in on leg again, but Nail counters again
Stall warning on Nail
P1 Morrison (3-3 tied)
(Nail got hit with a stalling penalty with :02 left)
Overtime
Scramble out of bounds, no score
T2+N3 Morrison (8-3 Morrison)

End of Match
Cory Morrison (Gray) dec. Kirk Nail (Scarlet) 8-3 OT


141: No Match
Notes: Jaggers just got cleared to wrestle after his knee surgery.


165: No Match
Notes: Ryan Patrovich worked out with Joe Heskett during registration. Joe says he is one of the best true freshman he's ever seen.- very tough mentally.


184: No Match
Notes: Pucillo is out with an ankle injury and is scheduled to be back by the first dual. Picazo is out with a rib injury that is not severe, but it just happened a few days ago so he is resting it.

​

 

[OSUBasketballJunkie]

ABJ

Wrestler Weakley of CVCA picks OSU

HIGH SCHOOL
BRIEFLY
Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy senior John Weakley made an oral commitment to go to college at Ohio State and wrestle for the Buckeyes.
Weakley, a three-time state qualifier, won the Division II state championship last season in the 189-pound weight class. On the way to the state title, he won the Ironman Invitational, at sectionals and at districts.
Last season, he compiled a 38-1 record and was named the PAC-7 wrestler of the year.
The 5-foot-10, 210-pound Weakley is also a key member on the Royals football team, as a running back/linebacker.
Through nine games this season, Weakley has rushed for 818 yards on 111 carries and scored eight touchdowns.
``John is very excited about his decision,'' CVCA coach Don Lorence said. ``He plans to wrestle at 197 pounds in college. There is a lot of excitement with the Ohio State wrestling program. They are concentrating on getting the top high school wrestlers in Ohio.''

 

[wadc45]

link

Oct. 26, 2006
A new era has begun in Ohio State wrestling with first-year head coach Tom Ryan becoming the ninth head coach in the history of the 86-year-old program. Ryan was hired April 22, 2006 and upon his arrival to Columbus he immediately began putting together a world-class assistant coaching staff.
Ryan appointed former four-time OSU All-American and U.S. Senior National Team member Tommy Rowlands assistant coach. Rowlands will be joined on the staff by 2006 U.S. Senior World Team head coach and 1996 U.S. Olympian Lou Rosselli as an assistant coach. Joe Heskett, a four-time U.S. Senior National Team member and NCAA champion, also adds to the contingent as a volunteer assistant coach.
Starting anew, the Buckeyes have begun building the foundation that will support their rise to the top of the Big Ten Conference standings and national rankings.
"A staff of true champions has been assembled," Ryan, who spent 11 years at Hofstra, said. "Character, commitment and the desire to be the best is the foundation of successful individuals and successful programs."
The Scarlet and Gray has five important dates marked on its calendars, the first being March 3-4 and the second March 15-17. It is at the conference and national championships Ohio State seeks to recapture the feats from years past. With the return of six national qualifiers, including two All-Americans and a host of up-and-coming wrestlers ready to burst upon the scene, Ryan and Co. have little doubt those dates and the season as a whole will be labeled as the beginning of one of the most successful periods in the history of OSU wrestling.
125
The top contender for the 125-pound class is Will Livingston. A true freshman, Livingston demonstrates exceptional work ethic. During the first week of preseason training, Livingston arrived at Ohio State in shape and focused. He cruised through the team's first timed mile, completing it in an impressive 4:54.

"Hard work and the sheer will to win is a premiere factor for this weight class, Ryan said."
125 Notable: Anner Arroyo
133
Returning to 133 pounds after spending last season wrestling at 141, T. J. Enright found another approach to utilizing his abilities. Enright joined the OSU running club during the offseason and ran more than 40 miles a week. A disciplined wrestler, Enright's running habits should give him added endurance during matches.
Also in contention is Reece Humphrey. Humphrey, a talented and versatile wrestler, was tied for the most wins on the team with 26 among starters last season as a true freshman and was a NCAA championships qualifier. Before joining the Buckeyes, Humphrey was a Junior National Champion for Lawrence North High School in Indianapolis, Ind.
"We have great depth at this weight class with either wrestler capable of being a major impact on the national scene," Ryan said. "Reece still has a redshirt year, so we will see what happens."
133 Notable: Owen Schaefer
141
Also making a return to his original weight class is J Jaggers. A four-time Ohio high school state champion, Jaggers has recovered from two season-ending injuries during his OSU career, including an ACL injury he suffered at the 2006 Big Ten Championships. Finishing sixth, Jaggers qualified for the NCAA championships, but was forced to bow out of the tournament because of the injury. Arguably, one of the most entertaining wrestlers in the country, Jaggers has been relentlessly rehabilitating and training during the offseason for an opportunity to showcase his talents at the NCAA tournament.
"A healthy J Jaggers is trouble for anyone in the country," Ryan said.
141 Notable: Matt Fleming
149
A two-time Ohio high school state champion, Jason Johnstone is known for his aggressive style of wrestling. He is committed to making the leap from good to great and works hard to ensure his success.
A four-time Ohio high school state champion and top recruit, Lance Palmer is an extremely strong and physical wrestler who also will compete at 149. Known for his talents on top, he will transition from high school to collegiate competition with little difficulty.
"Much like 133, these two individuals have extremely bright futures in the Buckeye singlet," Ryan said. "Both are standouts and high impact wrestlers."
157
Fifth-year senior and Hofstra transfer Chris Vondruska adds great depth to the 157 weight class. Vondruska, who went 2-2 at the NCAA championships last season at 165 pounds, is an Ohio native, who finished second at the high school state tournament for St. Edwards.
Jordin Humphrey is a fifth-year senior preparing to capitalize on his last season as a Buckeye. He is state runner up from Indiana and broke the state takedown record his senior year.
"Two seniors will battle it out, but Vondruska has valuable NCAA experience that is irreplaceable," Ryan said.
165
True freshman Ryan Patrovich comes to Ohio State as a high school national runner-up and Junior National runner-up. A mature wrestler, who is game-day ready, Patrovich also will shift to collegiate competition with ease.
"Very few wrestlers, let alone true freshmen have the well-rounded tools that Ryan has," Ryan said. "It will be fun for the fans to watch him grow over the next few years."
165 Notable: Wes Bergman
174
Blake Maurer, a 2006 NCAA qualifier will continue to see action at 174 pounds. A four-time Indiana high school state champion at Mater Dei, Maurer's explosive and quick tactics gives him the tools to compete with anyone in the country.
"When someone makes a conscious commitment to excel, they can be difficult to stop," Ryan said. "Blake has made that commitment."
174 Notables: Tommy Priestley, Jon Savia and Thomas Wilson
184
Vastly improving at 184 pounds is senior Alex Picazo. During the summer, Picazo put time in on the mats, wrestling three to four times a week. His dedication only can be rivaled, not beaten. A leader by example, Picazo still has the option to redshirt or make a run at the title in Detroit.
Mike Pucillo was a three-time Ohio high school state finalist, state champion and high school national champion. Pucillo possesses an amazing fight and mat presence that is not found in many athletes. He only is a freshman, but he will compete with anyone and everyone in the country.
"Alex and Mike are both committed and passionate, with unlimited potential," Ryan said. "The Buckeyes are well represented at this weight."
197
Returning to the lineup after medical redshirting the 2005-06 season is J.D. Bergman. A 2004 All-American as a true freshman, Bergman has dedicated himself to the sport, as he is one of the nation's best in Greco Roman and freestyle wrestling. Bergman has been a member of the U.S. Greco Roman National Team and placed fourth in freestyle competition this past summer at the World Team trials.
"Talented, strong and versatile, J.D. expects nothing less than winning the NCAA title," Ryan said.
A transfer from Roger Williams University, Zack Weinrich was a Division III national qualifier at RWU. With three years of eligibility remaining, Weinrich looks to use his notable work habits as a launching pad to Division I qualifying status.
"Zack, a young hardworking wrestler, also provides the Buckeyes with added depth," Ryan said.
197 Notables: Jacob Hale, Nickolai Timbs and Brian Tucker
HWT
Kirk Nail, a 2006 All-American has made a commitment to improve all areas of his skills and with that pledge Nail has the ability to stand on top of the All-America podium.
Moving up a weight class is Corey Morrison, who has one of the premier work ethics on the team. Although Morrison is growing into the weight class, he is athletic and dedicated to advancing as a technician.
"Kirk provides success and experience at this class," Ryan said. "Corey's youth and passion will make him a serious factor. He provides the Buckeyes with great depth."
HWT Notables: Jason Cook and Steve Dumas
SCHEDULE
Ohio State faces a tough schedule in 2006-07, as two of its opponents - Iowa (4th) and Cornell (5th) - finished in the Top 5 of the 2006 NCAA tournament. Additionally, Big Ten rivals Michigan and Penn State were Top 10 contenders in the national tournament and Northwestern, Missouri, Indiana, Michigan State and Purdue rounded out the Top 20 from the NCAA championships last season.
The Buckeyes begin the season at the Michigan State Open Nov. 12 in East Lansing, Mich., before opening its home schedule in St. John Arena against Missouri Nov. 16, the first dual meet in the Tom Ryan era.
The Scarlet and Gray then will travel to Ithaca, N.Y., Nov. 26 where it will face Cornell, which won its 23rd-consecutive Ivy League Conference championship and placed second at the Eastern Intercollegiate Wrestling Association championships last season.
Sandwiched in between Ohio State's match ups with Cornell and Tennessee-Chattanooga, the 2006 Southern Conference champion, is the Las Vegas Invitational. The Buckeyes travel to Primm, Nev., Dec. 1 and then return to St. John Arena to face the Mocs Dec. 17.
The Southern Scuffle Dec. 28-29 in Greensboro, N.C., concludes the tournament portion of the schedule.
Ohio State begins the new year with a home match vs. MAC opponent Kent State Jan. 7 before opening the Big Ten season against Purdue in Columbus Jan. 14.
The Buckeyes will compete in the Ashland Duals Jan. 21 in Ashland, Ohio, and will return to conference action against Penn State, which finished ninth in the NCAA championships, Jan. 26 in University, Park, Pa.
Consecutive home duals vs. Indiana and Michigan State close out January and begins February. The Buckeyes and Hoosiers meet Jan. 28 and OSU faces MSU Feb. 2.
OSU takes a trip to St. Edwards High School in Lakewood, Ohio, for a match against Northwestern Feb. 4 before ending the regular season with three consecutive road duals.
A meeting with NCAA seventh-place finisher Michigan in Ann Arbor, is Feb. 11. In Iowa City, Iowa, the Buckeyes will face the Hawkeyes Feb. 16 and a visit to Champaign, Ill., Feb. 18, in a match up against the Fighting Illini, concludes the regular season. The postseason gets underway March 3-4 at the Big Ten championships in East Lansing, Mich. Michigan State University will serve as the host school of the league championships. The NCAA championships, hosted by the University of Michigan and the Detroit Metro Sports Commission, will be held at The Palace of Auburn Hills in Detroit.

 

[Mike80]

We practiced a lot against Grandview Heights when I was in High School. I remember when Tommy Rowlands was "only" a 215 in high school....

Adam DiSabato's dad was the coach there.

 

[wadc45]

My St. Ed's players say that Palmer and Nemec (who just committed to OSU) are the real deal...

 

[Mike80]

My St. Ed's players say that Palmer and Nemec (who just committed to OSU) are the real deal...

When we went to Top Gun in Alliance, the St. Eds guys were always head and shoulders above everyone else it seemed....

 

[BB73]

ozone

Wrestling
Ohio State opens season with successful EMU Open
By Kevin Schlosser

The Eastern Michigan Open ? 11/4/2006:

The Ohio State wrestling team opened the 2006-2007 wrestling season in Ypsilanti, Michigan at the Eastern Michigan Open. Teams sending wrestlers to the tournament included Ohio State, Michigan, Michigan State, Northwestern, US Naval Academy, Central Michigan, Purdue, Olivet, Eastern Michigan, Brockport, and Cleveland State. The regional preseason tournament is designed to allow teams to enter multiple wrestlers into a bracketed tournament. Team scores are not compiled. Ohio State entered 16 wrestlers in 9 weight classes.

Quick Review:

125 ? Will Livingston 4 th (fresh, 3-2)
133 ? DNP
141 ? Reece Humphrey 3 rd (soph, 4-1)
149 ? Lance Palmer 3 rd (fresh, 4-1)
149 ? Jason Johnstone 3 rd (r.jr, 4-1)
157 ? Chris Vonduruska 3 rd (grad, 4-1)
165 ? Non Entry
174 ? DNP ? Best finish Tom Priesly (r.jr, 3-2)
184 ? DNP - Best finish Jason Cook (r.fresh, 1-2)
197 ? DNP - Best finish Nickolai Timbs (r.jr, 3-2)
285 ? DNP - Best finish Corey Morrison (r.soph, 2-2)

Notable Non Entries: TJ Enright (r.jr), Kirk Nail (r.jr), Alex Picazo (r.sr), Ryan Patrovich (fr), Mike Pucillo (soph), Blake Mauer (r.jr), J Jaggers (r.jr), Jordan Humphrey (r.sr) and J.D. Bergman (r.jr)

Quick Analysis:

This format of a tournament is all about getting matches, matches and more matches. After opening training camp a month ago, many wrestlers look forward to facing someone from another school and the Buckeyes are no different. While the team did not send their entire varsity lineup, those who attended did not disappoint. All projected starters and returning letterman placed. A tournament like allows the young guys to gain valuable as it is not all about wins and losses, but quality of match and quality of opponent as well.

In Depth Review:

At 125, freshman Will Livingston finished 4 th losing 9-0 to Jonathan Lloyd of Lindenwood in the consolation finals. The New Jersey native dropped into the consolation round after dropping a 2-0 decision in the championship semifinals to runner-up, Alex Usztics, USNA. Overall it was a good start for the freshman as he went 3-2 on the day. In the end, his placement was a statement.

At 133, Ohio State entered junior Owen Shafer who went 0-2 and did not place. During the season this position looks to be a showdown between T.J. Enright/Reece Humphrey. The loser goes up to challenge Jaggers or in Humphrey?s case use a redshirt.

Sophomore Reece Humphrey bumped up a weight class to 141 going 4-1 and finishing a strong 3 rd with a 5-3 decision versus Tony D?Alie, CMU, in the consolation finals. The coach?s son narrowly missed the finals with a 1-0 decision loss in the semifinal to champion Ryan Lang Northwestern. While it is early in the season, Lang is expected to be an All American. Four time Ohio State Champion J. Jaggers is expected to take this spot when the regular season begins

At 149, Ohio State entered both freshman Lance Palmer and redshirt junior Jason Johnstone. Both wrestlers narrowly missed making it an all Buckeye final with both losing in the championship semifinals. Palmer dropped a 3-0 decision in his match with eventual champion Josh Churella, Michigan; while Jason Johnstone found himself on the wrong side of an 8-6 decision with runner up Josh Cox USNA. Both wrestlers finished the day 4-1.

The rematch of the Ohio State wrestleoffs didn?t occur in Ypsilanti and probably won?t occur in East Lansing either. Palmer and Johnson will continue to be a dogfight. Johnstone has used a medical redshirt and Palmer is a True freshman. Palmer will not be going 141 and it looks like 149 or redshirt.

Graduate student transfer Chris Vonduruska also had a 4-1 day by finishing in 3 rd with a hard fought 3-2 decision over Justin Jacobs, USNA. Vonduruska was knocked into the consolation bracket after dropping an 8-6 semifinal decision to champion Tom Greathouse, MSU.

Both Zac Amneh and Rob Ewing went 0-2 on the day as OSU entries at 157.

Ohio State did not enter a wrestler in the 165 pound weight class. As it stands, this position looks to be held down by freshman Ryan Patrovich once the regular season begins.

At 174, redshirt junior Tom Priesly went 3-2 on the day losing by pin to champion Steve Luke Michigan in the championship bracket quarterfinals and 7-4 Blake Mesyn of MSU in the consolation quarterfinals. Redshirt sophomore Wes Bergman went 2-2 on the day losing by pin to runner up Matt Stolpinski USNA in the championship bracket quarterfinals and 6-3 Scott Griffin of Michigan in the consolation round. During the regular season, this weight class looks to be filled by Blake Mauer.
Ohio State had two entries at 184 and both John Hawkins & redshirt freshman Jason Cook went 1-2 before exiting. This position looks to be a dogfight with senior Alex Picazo and sophomore Mike Pucillo.

The Buckeyes had three entries at the 197 weight class. The best finish of the bunch was redshirt junior Nickolai Timbs who went 3-2 on the day. Timbs lost a narrow championship quarterfinal match 3-2 to John McClure of Eastern Michigan and then battled through the consolations only to the quarterfinals before losing 11-4 to Nick Palmieri of Eastern Michigan. Sophomore, Zach Weinrich went 1-2 while Andy Mackenzie 0-2. This weight class will be filled by J.D. Bergman once the season begins.

At heavyweight, Kirk Nail was a late scratch leaving sophomore Corey Morrison as the lone entry. Morrison, the wrestle off winner, went 2-2 on the day losing a championship quarterfinal match to 11-6 Pat Bennett of Brockport and then battled through the consolations only to drop the quarterfinal match 5-3 to Rashard Goff, Cleveland State. Nail is the returning All American in this weight class, but Morrison has been pushing him hard.

Additional Thoughts & Questions:

The Buckeyes have a deep and talented team. While they have new leadership and new direction, they are still a young team. As the program moves ahead at warp speed there are still as many questions as there are answers.

Ohio State knows they have a 125 with Livingston, but will Enright be able to hold off a hard charging Reece Humphrey at 133. If Jaggers is not 100% healthy at 141, could Humphrey be the man if dual meet wins are more important than a redshirt year. At 149 does Palmer do enough to seize the position, forcing Johnstone down a weight or to the bench? Does Ryan redshirt Palmer? At 157, Jordan Humphrey won the wrestleoff; but after this weekend, Chris Vonduruska looks to have him in his crosshairs. Will the real 165 please step up? Mauer is an All American at 174 and so is Bergman at 197. Who wins the dogfight at 184? Will Kirk Nail become Wally Pipp to Chris Morrison?

Despite the questions, this will be a veteran team by the end of the year looking to contend for a Big Ten title. Ohio State wrestling is now on every map. The road to the Big Ten title still runs through Minnesota and Iowa, but the Tom Ryan Expressway is being built to Columbus, Ohio.

Upcoming Matches & Events:

The Buckeyes will be sending more wrestlers next weekend to the Michigan State Open in East Lansing. Ohio State opens the regular season at home with a dual mach against Missouri on Thursday November 16, 2006.

Recruiting Tidbits:

While it is not usually the position of the O-Zone to post on recruiting information, we do not live inside of a bubble. In the last two weeks the Ohio State wrestling program has received verbal commitments from 4 of the top 25 seniors in the United States. 152lb Sean Nemec (#2 in weight class #7 overall) Lakewood St Eds, OH; 119lb Nikko Triggas (#2 in weight class & #17 overall) Moranga HS, CA; 160 Colt Sponseller (#4 in weight class & #19 overall) West Holmes, OH; and at 189, John Weakley (#4 in weight class & #25 overall) CVCA, OH.

Triggas was one of the most sought after national recruits and looks to fill the void at 125 or add immediate depth. Getting Nemec, Sponseller, and Weakly means Buckeyes got the top three Ohio wrestlers to get. All three wrestlers will add immediate talent to the roster and depth across the middleweights. Bringing in a class of this caliber, grabs headlines. If they live up to the billing, they will be writing their own headlines.

Rankings are from W.I.N. magazine (indvl) and Rev Wrestling (ntl).
​

 

[JohnnyCockfight]

In the last two weeks the Ohio State wrestling program has received verbal commitments from 4 of the top 25 seniors in the United States. 152lb Sean Nemec (#2 in weight class #7 overall) Lakewood St Eds, OH; 119lb Nikko Triggas (#2 in weight class & #17 overall) Moranga HS, CA; 160 Colt Sponseller (#4 in weight class & #19 overall) West Holmes, OH; and at 189, John Weakley (#4 in weight class & #25 overall) CVCA, OH.

Thad who? 4 of the top 25 in the country, in 2 weeks? Are you kidding me.

 

[ysubuck]

Phenominal news.

Keeping the real Ohio talent in Ohio was something that Russ just didn't seem to be able to do.

 

[wadc45]

And the rich get richer...

LINK

Bo knows where to go... Ohio State
Dan Ransick - OhioWrestling.Net
November 8, 2006

Ohio State has just landed their fifth big recruit in this early signing period, Bo Touris. In what many could say is a resurgence in the Buckeye wrestling program, head coach Tom Ryan and the Buckeye staff have been signing up the best seniors in the state and in the nation. The Buckeyes have put together one of the best recruiting classes in the nation, if not the best. I got a chance to get a hold of Bo to see what he had to say about becoming the newest member of the Buckeyes' stellar recruiting class.

Congratulations on your commitment. What made you choose Ohio State?

I had a long talk with my dad today and we decided that it was the best fit for me. I love the talk of the team being national champions. That really sold me on Ohio State. I love the fact that I will have the best training situation in the nation. I will have Rosselli as a coach. Triggas, Livingston, and Enright will all be my training partners. What could be better? Also, I like the feeling of being part of such a great recruiting class like Ohio State has this year. It is an honor to be part of this class. Plus, you know you can't beat getting those football tickets.

What schools were you deciding between?

Ohio State and Ohio University. Ohio University was great and Coach Greenlee was too. But in the end, the coaches and facilities at Ohio State won me over. Something that Joe Heskett said really hit home with me. He said, "follow your heart." My heart told me that Ohio State is the place for me and I am happy with my choice.

Are you going to be a career 125?

Yeah, I plan on being a career 125.

What weight do you plan on going this year?

I am going 112. I want to win state and I am looking forward to my rematch with Steve Mitcheff of Elyria. He got the best of me in the state semifinals, winning 5-4. He is tough. I can't wait to wrestle him. I beat him at Brecksville, but he won when it counted.

You only won a single match in the sixth grade (obviously you've come a long way since then). What is your message to the young kids out there today that are still learning the sport and may struggle at times.

Well, if you want something in life you have to work hard at it. You can achieve anything when you work hard and have a good attitude. The attitude in the room at Ohio State is just like that and that is why I want to be part of the Buckeye program. You work hard there and they reward the hard work you put in. I just want to keep working hard and be part of something special up at Ohio State. The message is, "just work hard and you will get what you have put in."

That is great to hear about hard work paying off. Congratulations on your scholarship to Ohio State. Best of luck to you this year and thanks for your time.

Thanks and you're welcome.

 

[NOTREDAMECHIEF]

TheWrestlingMall.com 2006-07 Preseason Division I Rankings
Date Ranked:10/20/2006
Ranked By

Top 20 teams
1. Minnesota
2. Oklahoma State
3. Missouri
4. Iowa State
5. Michigan
6. Iowa
7. Penn State
8. Cornell
9. Oklahoma
10. Pennsylvania
11. Northwestern
12. Hofstra
13. Indiana
14. Michigan State
15. Edinboro
16. Ohio State
17. Cal Poly
18. Central Michigan
19. Lehigh
20. West Virginia

Individual rankings

125 Pounds
1. Troy Nickerson, Cornell
2. Sam Hazewinkel, Oklahoma
3. Nick Simmons, Michigan State
4. Chad Mendes, Cal Poly
5. Tanner Gardner, Stanford
6. Mark Moos, Michigan
7. Gabe Flores, Illinois
8. Paul Donahoe, Nebraska
9. Mark McKnight, Penn State
10. Mike Sees, Bloomsburg
11. Luke Smith, Central Michigan
12. Obe Blanc, Lock Haven
13. Pat Castillo, Northern Illinois
14. Chad Sportelli , Kent State
15. Angel Escobedo, Indiana
16. Sean Clair, Eastern Michigan
17. Javier Maldonado, UTC
18. Dave Tomasette, Hofstra
19. Tim Kephart, Missouri
20. Eric Stevenson, Oregon State

133 Pounds
1. Matt Valenti, Penn
2. Mack Reiter, Minnesota
3. Coleman Scott, Oklahoma State
4. Tyler McCormick, Missouri
5. Matt Keller, UTC
6. Darrell Vasquez, Cal Poly
7. Jake Strayer, Penn State
8. Drew Headlee, Pittsburgh
9. Robbie Preston, Harvard
10. Mark Budd, Buffalo
11. Adam Frey, Cornell
12. Joe Baker, Navy
13. Andrae Hernandez , Indiana
14. Ricky Deubel, Edinboro
15. Franklin Gomez, Michigan State
16. Nick Gallick, Iowa State
17. Zach Cunliffe, Rider
18. Mike Rowe , Nebraska
19. Jared Royer, North Carolina
20. Eric Albright, Virginia

141 Pounds
1. Ryan Lang, Northwestern
2. Andy Simmons, Michigan State
3. Brandon Rader, West Virginia
4. Nathan Morgan, Oklahoma State
5. Alex Tsirtsis, Iowa
6. Max Meltzer, Harvard
7. Derek Moore, Cal Davis
8. Jeff Jaggers, Ohio State
9. Don Fisch, Rider
10. C.J. Ettelson, Northern Iowa
11. Matt Ciasulli, Lehigh
12. Charles Griffin, Hofstra
13. Manuel Rivera, Minnesota
14. Dave Roberts, Cal Poly
15. Mitch Mueller, Iowa State
16. Vincent Ramirez, North Carolina
17. Brandon Carter, Central Michigan
18. Cesar Grajales, Penn
19. Michael Keefe, UTC
20. Kyle Larson, Oregon State

149 Pounds
1. Dustin Schlatter, Minnesota
2. Matt Storniolo, Oklahoma
3. Gregor Gillespie, Edinboro
4. Tyler Turner, Wisconsin
5. Josh Churella , Michigan
6. John Cox, Navy
7. Trevor Chinn, Lehigh
8. Troy Tirapelle, Illinois
9. David Jauregui, West Virginia
10. Jordan Leen, Cornell
11. Jason Johnstone, Ohio State
12. Matt Coughlin, Indiana
13. Andrew Schlaffer, Maryland
14. Robert Sanders, Nebraska
15. Morgan Atkinson, Cal State Fullerton
16. Josh Wagner , Missouri
17. Cyler Sanderson , Iowa State
18. Aaron Martin, UTC
19. Carter Downing, Wyoming
20. Andy Keller, Central Michigan

157 Pounds
1. Brian Stith, Arizona State
2. Trent Paulson, Iowa State
3. Brandon Becker, Indiana
4. Craig Henning, Wisconsin
5. C.P. Schlatter, Minnesota
6. Mike Poeta, Illinois
7. Matt Dragon, Penn
8. Travis Piccard, The Citadel
9. Andrew Flanagan, Harvard
10. Matt Kocher, Pittsburgh
11. Michael Chandler, Missouri
12. Tyler Sherfey, Boise State
13. Nathan Galloway, Penn State
14. Steve Luke, Michigan
15. James Strouse, Hofstra
16. Zach Fryling, West Virginia
17. Will Rowe, Oklahoma
18. Seth Martin, Lock Haven
19. Ryan Morningstar, Iowa
20. Matt Hill, Edinboro

165 Pounds
1. Johny Hendricks, Oklahoma State
2. Mark Perry, Iowa
3. Mike Patrovich, Hofstra
4. Deonte Penn, Edinboro
5. Nick Baima, Northern Iowa
6. Travis Paulson, Iowa State
7. Eric Tannenbaum, Michigan
8. Matt Pell, Missouri
9. Pat Pitsch, Arizona State
10. Steve Anceravage, Cornell
11. Keith Gavin, Pittsburgh
12. Rocky Cozart, Michigan State
13. Marc Harwood, Nebraska
14. Max Dean, Indiana
15. Larry Hall, West Virginia
16. Jarrod King, Oklahoma
17. Jake Donar, Wisconsin
18. Tyler Tisdall, George Mason
19. Dan Bedoy, Purdue
20. Dave Rella, Penn State

174 Pounds
1. Ben Askren, Missouri
2. Matt Herrington, Penn
3. James Yonushonis, Penn State
4. Ken Cook, Cal Davis
5. Brandon Mason, Oklahoma State
6. Matt Palmer, Columbia
7. Kurt Brenner, West Virginia
8. Ken Robertson, Eastern Illinois
9. Eric Luedke, Iowa
10. Gabe Dretsch, Minnesota
11. Donnie Reynolds, Illinois
12. Jeremy Larson, Oregon State
13. Nick Roy, Michigan
14. Blake Maurer, Ohio State
15. Brandon Sinnott, Central Michigan
16. David Helfrich, Lehigh
17. Matt Stolpinski, Navy
18. Shane Siebert, Oklahoma
19. Brandon Brown, Nebraska
20. Alex Maciag, North Carolina

184 Pounds
1. Roger Kish, Minnesota
2. Jake Herbert, Northwestern
3. Josh Glenn, American
4. Steve Borja, Virginia Tech
5. Raymond Jordan, Missouri
6. Alex Clemsen, Edinboro
7. Vince Jones, Nebraska
8. Joe Rovelli, Hofstra
9. Tyrel Todd, Michigan
10. Christian Sinnott, Central Michigan
11. Jake Varner, Iowa State
12. Rocco Caponi, Virginia
13. Louie Caputo, Harvard
14. Joe Williams, Michigan State
15. Tyler Bernacchi, Cal Davis
16. Mike Heist, Pittsburgh
17. Derrick Morgan, Lock Haven
18. Tony Rolen, Oregon
19. Chance Litton, West Virginia
20. Nate Shirk, Bloomsburg

197 Pounds
1. Phil Davis, Penn State
2. Jerry Rinaldi, Cornell
3. Joel Flaggert, Oklahoma
4. J.D. Bergman, Ohio State
5. Wynn Michalak, Central Michigan
6. Chris Weidman, Hofstra
7. Kurt Backes, Iowa State
8. Matt Monteiro, Cal Poly
9. Nate Moore, Purdue
10. Dallas Herbst, Wisconsin
11. Ryan Goodman, North Carolina State
12. Mike Tamilow, Northwestern
13. Max Askren, Missouri
14. Matt Cassidy, Lehigh
15. Daniel Erekson, Iowa
16. Daren Burns, UNC- Greensboro
17. David Dashiell, North Carolina
18. Jared Villers, West Virginia
19. T.J. Morrison, Rider
20. Jon Oplinger, Drexel

285 Pounds
1. Cole Konrad, Minnesota
2. Bode Ogunwole, Harvard
3. Kirk Nail, Ohio State
4. Matt Fields, Iowa
5. Spencer Nadolsky, North Carolina
6. Ty Watterson, Oregon State
7. Dustin Fox, Northwestern
8. Dave Herman, Indiana
9. Jared Rosholt, Oklahoma State
10. Andy Patrick, Boise State
11. Payam Zarrinpour, Sacred Heart
12. Adam Lopiccolo, American
13. Paul Weibel, Lehigh
14. Bubba Gritter , Central Michigan
15. Jon May, Nebraska
16. Kyle Massey, Wisconsin
17. Cody Parker, Cal Poly
18. Aaron Anspach, Penn State
19. Rashard Goff, Cleveland State
20. Zach Shaeffer, Pittsburgh
View Related News

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