Upcoming
Events
Do you want to list an
event on Onzuka.com?
Contact Us
(All events on Oahu, unless noted)
July 9-12
BJJ World Cup (CBJJO)
(BJJ)
(SESC gym, Salvador, Brazil)
Sometime
between Arnold-Gracie & Pan Ams
Pac-Rim BJJ tournament
(BJJ & Sub Grappling)
(Hawaii)
3/5-7/04
Arnold
Schwarzenegger World Gracie Professional Submission Championships
(BJJ & Sub Grappling)
(Columbus, Ohio)
2/15/04
First Maui Invitational
of Jiu-Jitsu
(BJJ & Sub Grappling)
(Kahului, Maui, Hawaii)
Punishment
in Paradise II
(MMA & Kickboxing)
(Campbell H.S. Gym)
2/7/04
Ring of Honor 3
(Sub Grappling)
2/6/04
Super
Brawl 32
(MMA)
(Blaisdell Arena)
1/31/04
UFC
46: Super Natural
(MMA)
(Mandalay Bay Events Center, Las Vegas, NV)
1/24/04
Ring of Honor 2
(MMA)
(Oahu)
1/19/04
Second 2 None Submission Grappling Tournament
(Sub Grappling)
(Oahu)
2004
12/31/03
"INOKI BOM-BA-YE 2003"
(Kobe Wing Stadium, Kobe, Japan)
(MMA)
Pride's Special Otoko Matsuri 2003
(MMA)
(Japan)
K-1
(Kickboxing & MMA)
(Japan)
12/27/03
Rumble On The Rock 5
(MMA)
(Hilo, Hawaii)
|
|
December News Part
1
Wednesday
night and Sunday classes (w/ a kids' class) now offered!
 
For the special Onzuka.com
price, click on one of these banners above! |
Quote
of the Day
"With ordinary talent and extraordinary perseverance, all
things are attainable."
Sir Thomas Foxwell Buxton, Abolitionist and Reformer
|
Stephen
Abas Wrestling Clinic
Date:
December 23, 2003
Time: 9:00 AM
Place: Moanalua High School
Price: $10 or $200 per team
This
guy is an animal. Read below to see the stats that I researched
on Stephen Abas.
Stephen Abas
Quick Bio
Three-time NCAA National Champion 1999, 2001, 2002
Four-time All-American 1998, 1999, 2001, 2002
Number 1 Ranked in the USA at 55 kg/121 lbs.
Fresno State: (2001-02) Proved himself to be the undisputed best
wrestler in the nation in the 125 division for the third time
… was consistently ranked No. 1 in the 125 division throughout
the entire season … beat Iowa's Luke Eustice 8-4 in the
finals at the NCAA Championships in Albany, N.Y., to win his
third national championship … won the West Regional Championships
and led Fresno State to a second-place finish … completed
a perfect season, going 35-0 overall and 19-0 in dual meets …
racked up 12 pins, three technical falls and nine major decision
victories … is Fresno State's first three-time national
champion and second four-time All-American … set a Bulldog
record in season win percentage (1.000) and career win percentage
(.973) … finished his Fresno State career with a record
of 144-4 … topped his brother, Gerry, in the record books
for wins in a career … led the Bulldogs to a 19th place
finish at the 2002 NCAA Championships.
(2000-01) Top ranked 125 division wrestler in the nation …
captured his second national title at the NCAA tournament and
became a three-time All-American … won the Western Regional
Championships … was the first Bulldog to go undefeated through
an entire season with a record of 34-0 … was voted among
Fresno State's Top-25 greatest athletes.
(1999-00) Took the year off from school and wrestling to train
for the 2000 Olympics. Abas placed fourth in the US Olympic Trials.
(1998-99) Captured the national title at 125 pounds, becoming
the second person in Fresno State history to earn such an honor
in wrestling … had only one blemish in his national championship
season (37-1), a loss to three-time national champion Eric Guerrero
… was the WAC champion for the second straight year …
had a dual match record of 14-1 … voted Fresno State's male
athlete of the year … ranked second in Bulldog history with
a single season win percentage of .974 … picked up the WAC
Outstanding Wrestler honor for the second year in a row …
racked up 11 technical fall victories and six pins.
(1997-98) One of the top freshman in the country … made
an immediate impact in his first collegiate season with a 38-3
overall record while going a perfect 15-0 in dual meets ... was
ranked as high as second in the nation at 118 pounds ... capped
his standout season going 5-2 at the NCAA Championships to earn
a fourth place finish and All-America honors ... was named the
WAC Wrestler of the Year and conference Freshman of the Year
after winning his first WAC championship at 118 ... opened the
season winning his first 24 matches ... took first place at the
Cliff Keen Las Vegas Invitational, All-California Open, UC Davis
Aggie Open and at the California Collegiate Invitational ...
was named Outstanding Wrestler of the Tournament at the Las Vegas
Invitational ... four times earned
|
Wanderlei
Silva - Taking Off the NEW YEAR Events
It
was recently announced that Wanderlei Silva, PRIDE's GP and Middleweight
Champion had surgery on his elbow, which was retaining water.
Check out http://news.adcombat.com/article.html?id=5554 for our post surgery
report with pictures of the elbow post surgery.
Amid
much speculation in Japan that the champion would fight on one
of the New Year's events, word is that PRIDE handlers have received
a letter authored by Rudimar Federigo, Chute Boxe's leader and
Wanderlei's principal handler. The letter states that Wanderlei's
recovery is going well from the surgery, however the recovery
will prevent him from training properly for a New Year's Eve
appearance. Reportedly, the letter was received in Japan on Tuesday,
the 9th and seems to confirm that Wanderlei will be sitting out
the New Year's events in 2004.
Source: ADCC |
Interview:
M-1 Veteran DENIS KANG
Canadian star Denis Kang earned a draw against Andrei Semenov
in M-1 “Russia vs. The World 7” last weekend in St.
Petersburg, Russia. Most observers describe a cleaner vicotry
for Kang than the judges saw, as several times Semenov would
shoot in and Kang wouldn’t go down, either by use of a guillotine
and sprawl, backing against the fence, or just punching as Semenov
came in. Semenov did get Kang down twice by clinching against
the fence and ripping Kang’s legs out, so Kang ended up
sitting down but Kang’s defense on the ground prevented
Semenov from doing much with it. Each time they hit the ground
Kang came online a little more until by the end of the single
10-minute round Kang was on top firing shots at will. Several
questionable stand ups in Semenov's favor came in to play as
well, as once they were bought up 5 seconds after the Canadian
achieved side control.
KM:
Tell me about the jetlag. DK: This is the worst I’ve ever
been jetlagged before. This is worse than Japan because this
was a fifteen hour trip here and I only came here a day and a
half before the fight.
KM:
Weren’t you saying the general rule of thumb was one day
of rest per time zone difference? DK: That is what they say you
should do. Ideally that is what you want. I understand they can’t
do that, that would be about two weeks. I think it should be
at least five days.
KM:
What effect did that have on you fight? DK: My muscles weren’t
tired but I could really feel it in my lungs. I knew I was in
good shape but I really had to push it. I got a good poker face
so I don’t show it. I could tell he was tired so I was trying
to act like I wasn’t tired.
KM:
You saw the show on closed circuit tv backstage. What was your
impression on the endurance of the Russian fighters in general?
DK: A lot of the Russians got a little tired. I think what is
happening is a lot of the Russian fighters are getting fed easy
opponents and they are getting used to it. I think maybe that
is what happened with me and Semenov is he thought he was getting
an easy opponent, he didn’t hear of Denis Kang. Maybe he
didn’t train as hard as he should have and I think that
is what happened with a lot of these other guys too. They’ve
been getting treated pretty nicely and when they step it up in
the quality of adversaries they were a little caught off guard.
KM:
To me it does seem like they have been increasing the level of
adversaries lately. How do you look back on that fight? DK: I
think it was a good fight. I think I fought well, I did everything
I should, I nullified all of his attacks, and gave him some things
to think about. You look at my face now and his face now ad you’ll
see a big difference. I think it’s really important to look
at how the fight ended. The fight ended with me on top pounding
away and landing shots at will. I’m not talking about the
last five seconds, I’m talking about the last thirty seconds.
That is a long time in a fight. If you look at the whole fight
overall it’s me dominating.
KM:
Dominating yes, but counterpunching or reacting in the beginning.
DK: I was counterpunching a lot in this fight because as I mentioned
earlier I was tired so I really wanted to save my energy. It’s
a really small cage; one step and you are pretty much nose-to-nose.
I didn’t really have to go too far to wait for him to come
in. I wanted to get in on him a little and throw some but I also
wanted to save some energy.
KM:
Tell me about the controversial ref stand-up right after you
hit side control. You two had a total of four stand-ups and one
separation clinched against the cage. How do you feel about that?
DK: I understand from their point of view they want to keep the
fight exciting, they don’t want any deadlock or stalling,
but at the same time the ref maybe has to be more educated in
terms of when a fight is really a deadlock and when both opponents
are actively working towards making a technique work. That is
what is important here, making a technique work. For example
if one opponent passes the guard and ends up in side mount you
don’t stand them up two seconds into holding side mount.
I think most stand-ups happened within five seconds of hitting
the ground or clinch. I think they could have been a little more
lenient with the stand-ups.
KM:
Did it bother or distract you in the fight? DK: I just move on
and act like it doesn’t bother me. After the fight I bitch
all I want but during the fight I don’t care. I think about
the fight and only the fight.
KM:
You look healthy today, like you don’t have much damage.
A little bit of a bruise above your left eye. How do you feel?
DK: Feel great. Still a little tired from the jetlag. Other than
that I feel fine.
KM:
Semenov is highly respected in the European community and with
me. Now that you have beaten him, in theory, do you feel any
differently about yourself or your career? DK: Of course I’m
glad it’s over and I came out and did well. I think it’s
a good win for me because he has a good record, he has beaten
some top dogs out there, and I think this solidifies my standing
in at least the top 10. It shows I’m ready for world-class
opponents.
KM:
I wanted to point one thing out; you and I agree but you just
said ‘good win’ when it was officially a draw. DK:
You can change that if you want. I don’t want to get in
trouble with M-1.
KM:
I’d like to leave that in if you don’t object because
the point I’m trying to make is everybody I’ve talked
to agrees you won that fight. How do you feel about it being
ruled a draw? DK: It is what it is. Decisions are what they are.
You know and I know how the fight went, it will come out on video,
people will know. It’s normal in a foreign country the judges
are a little biased towards the local fighter but also there
has to be some reason. It has to be within reason. That’s
ok; the crowd loved me, the promoters loved me, I’m going
to be back and hopefully next time it will be a better decision.
KM:
Suloev is around 185 also. Has anybody mentioned specific names?
DK: No names at all, just said I’d be back.
KM:
Would you recommend coming out for M-1? DK: Absolutely. I think
it’s evident they are trying to make M-1 a world-class show
with the amount of work that was put into it backstage and onstage.
KM:
Given what you said about coming back would you look for a fight
between now and a return to Russia? DK: It depends. I’m
tentatively scheduled to fight January 30th in TKO. That is not
for sure yet, a verbal agreement. After that I don’t have
too much planned.
KM:
Assuming the fight with you and Vigneault does happen what are
your thoughts on fighting Vigneault? DK: It would be an honor
because he is the champ and I wanted to fight him for a long
time. He is a good fighter, a good athlete, but I think I’m
better.
Source: ADCC |
Pancrase
12/21 Event Complete Lineup -
DAVID TERRELL To Make Pancrase Debut!
'PANCRASE
2003 HYBRID TOUR'
SUNDAY,DECEMBER 21,2003
DOORS OPEN;3:00PM
FIRST FIGHT;4:00PM
DIFFER ARIAKE (TOKYO,JAPAN)
Lineup
Subject TO Change:
PRO-MATCH
#1 / WELTERWEIGHT 2x5 MIN ROUNDS
KENJI ARAI (PANCRASEism) vs DAISUKE HANAZAWA 13 (MMA DOJO COBRAKAI)
PRO-MATCH
#2 / WELTERWEIGHT 2x5 MIN ROUNDS
TAKAFUMI ITO (OPEN-WEIGHT 2ND RANKED/PANCRASEism) vs LINSON SIMANJUNTAK
(INDONESIA/BIO FIGHTING CLUB)
PRO-MATCH
#3 / WELTERWEIGHT 2x5 MIN ROUNDS
KOJI OISHI (WELTERWEIGHT 1ST RANKED/PANCRASEism) vs TAKAHITO
IIDA (A-3)
PRO-MATCH
#4 / HEAVYWEIGHT 2x5 MIN ROUNDS
HUR SUNG JIN (KOREA/NEO FIGHT) vs YUKIYA NAITO (A-3)
PRO-MATCH
#5 / LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT 2x5 MIN ROUNDS
OSAMI SHIBUYA (LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT 10TH RANKED/PANCRASEism) vs
TSUYOSHI KURIHARA (TEAM ROKEN)
PRO-MATCH
#6/ MIDDLEWEIGHT 3x5 MIN ROUNDS
HIDEHIKO HASEGAWA (MIDDLEWEIGHT 7TH RANKED/SK ABSOLUTE) vs EIJI
ISHIKAWA (MIDDLEWEIGHT 10TH RANKED/PANCRASE GRABAKA)
SEMIFINAL/LIGHT
HEAVYWEIGHT 3x5 MIN ROUNDS
KEIICHIRO YAMAMIYA (LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT 10TH RANKED/PANCRASE GRABAKA)
vs BRET BERGMARK (U.S.A./CESAR GRACIE ACADEMY)
*YAMAMIYA WAS TRADED FROM PANCRASEISM TO PANCRASE GRABAKA
MAIN
EVENT/LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT 3x5 MIN ROUNDS
YUKI SASAKI (LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT 7TH RANKED/PANCRASE GRABAKA) vs
DAVID TERRELL (U.S.A./CESAR GRACIE ACADEMY)
Source: ADCC |
OKLAHOMA
STATE TOPS TWO NEW POLLS, AS IOWA STATE MOVES INTO SECOND PLACE
Last weekend's flurry of college wrestling activity has resulted
in yet another shuffling in the team polls.
Intermat
had ranked Illinois as first, but they only finished fourth at
the 2003 Cliff Keen Las Vegas Invitational held Friday and Saturday
in Las Vegas. Nebraska won that 43-team tournament, followed
by Michigan and Missouri.
W.I.N.
Magazine had ranked Iowa at the top of the heap. But on Sunday,
Iowa State ended a 30-meet losing streak to win six matches out
of ten, including the final five, to defeat Iowa 21-13 at home
in Hilton Coliseum in Ames.
Also
on Sunday, defending national champion Oklahoma State earned
a 23-12 victory over Oklahoma. Oklahoma State had lost its dual
meet with Missouri two weeks earlier by a score of 21-17. But
Missouri's third-place finish in Las Vegas, and the fact that
each team had won five matches at the Oklahoma State-Missouri
dual, gave enough ammunition to continue to rank Oklahoma State
ahead of Missouri.
The
result: both Intermat and W.I.N. have restored Oklahoma State
to the top spot. Both also installed Iowa State in the second
slot. W.I.N. follows with Las Vegas champion Nebraska, then Michigan,
and then Iowa, demoted from number one. Intermat follows with
Lehigh, Iowa, and Nebraska, with Illinois dropping all the way
to number seven.
Here
are their latest top 20 team rankings:
W.I.N.
Magazine- 12/9
Rank. School .................. 11/26
1 ............ Oklahoma State ...............2
2 ............ Iowa State ...........................3
3 ............ Nebraska ............................9
4 ........... Michigan .......................... 8
5 ........... Iowa ................................. 1
6 ........... Lehigh .............................. 5
7 ........ Missouri .................... 7
8 ........... Illinois ............................. 4
9 ........... Cornell .......................... 11
10 ........ Minnesota ...................... 6
11 ........ Hofstra .......................... 10
12 ........ Arizona State ............... 16
13 ........ Ohio State .................... 13
14 ........ Penn State ..................... 12
15 .......... Oklahoma ......................... 14
16 ........ Pennsylvania .................. 15
17 ........ Central Michigan ......... 18
18 ........ Northern Iowa ............ 17
19 ........ Cal Poly ........................ NR
20 ........ Michigan State .............. 21
Intermat-12/9
Rank. School ................... 12/2
1 ............ Oklahoma State ...............2
2 ............ Iowa State ...........................4
3 ........... Lehigh .............................. 5
4 ........... Iowa ................................. 3
5 ............ Nebraska ............................9
6 ........... Michigan .......................... 7
7 ........... Illinois ............................. 1
8 ........ Missouri .................... 6
9 ........... Minnesota ...................... 8
10 ........ Cornell .......................... 10
11 ........ Arizona State ............... 17
12 ........West Virginia ................ 11
13 ........ Penn State ..................... 12
14 ........ Hofstra .......................... 13
15 .......... Oklahoma ......................... 18
16 ........ Ohio State .................... 19
17 ........ Pennsylvania .................. 14
18 ........ Central Michigan ......... 15
19 ........ Wisconsin ..................... 16
20 ........ Northern Iowa ............ 20
PAC-10
RANKINGS
We
also have the latest individual Pac-10 rankings for Dec. 9, as
compiled by the coaching staff of Arizona State University:
Pac-10
Individual Wrestling Rankings Release #2 - December 9, 2003
125
1. Efren Ceballos (CS Bakersfield)
2. Eric Stevenson (Oregon State)
3. Christian Staylor (Arizona State)
4. Tom Schurkamp (UC Davis)
5. Tony Franco (Cal Poly)
133
1. Darrel Vasquez (Cal Poly)
2. Derek Moore (UC Davis)
3. Matt Sanchez (CS Bakersfield)
4. Scott Jorgensen (Boise State)
5. Tim Norman (Oregon State)
141
1. Brad Metzler (Stanford)
2. Jeff Bristol (UC Davis)
3. Juan Mora (CS Fullerton)
4. Jesse Brock (Boise State)
5. David Roberts (Cal Poly)
149
1. Patrick Williams (Arizona State )
2. Matt Cox (Cal Poly)
3. Nick Davis (UC Davis)
4. Tony Hook (Oregon State)
5. Brett Gordon (CS Fullerton)
157
1. Matt Gentry (Stanford)
2. Brian Stith (Arizona State)
3. Brian Cobb (CS Bakersfield)
4. Jeremiah Jarvis (UC Davis)
5. Ben Cherrington (Boise State)
165
1. Matt Ellis (Oregon State)
2. Luke Larwin (Oregon)
3. Mike Font (UC Davis)
4. Brody Barrios (Cal Poly)
5. Brian Perry (Stanford)
174
1. Jed Pennell (Oregon State)
2. Imad Kharbush (Stanford)
3. Ron Renzi (Arizona State)
4. Leonel Sanchez (CS Fullerton)
5. Shannon Sams (UC Davis)
184
1. Ryan Halsey (Cal Poly)
2. Nick Frost (Arizona State)
3. Casey Phelps (Boise State)
4. Dan Pitsch (Oregon State)
5. John Garfinkel (Stanford)
197
1. Ryan Bader (Arizona State)
2. Matt Monteiro (CS Bakersfield)
3. KC Walsh (Boise State)
4. Landon Seefeldt (CS Fullerton)
5. Ralph Garcia (Cal Poly)
285
1. Cain Velasquez (Arizona State)
2. Ty Watterson (Oregon State)
3. Dan Howe (Cal Poly)
4. Jacob McGinnis (Boise State)
5. Cody Parker (Oregon)
Source: ADCC |
Tyson’s
debut postponed until 2004
Controversial
boxer Mike Tyson appeared on the big screen of Tokyo Dome during
the K-1 World GP Finals, to state that he will fight in K-1 indeed.
He also hinted that he didn’t travel to Japan this time
because perhaps the country authorities would not allow him to
enter Japan. (He’s referring to his criminal record, probably).
Tyson
said also that K-1 is the biggest martial arts organization in
the world and that he will knock out everyone who faces him.
Right
after Tyson’s appearance, the former football player and
current fight idol Bob Sapp went to the ring and said he will
face Tyson in 2004. Before that, however, Sapp will fight former
Sumo champion Akebono in the Mixed Martial Art event that K-1
will hold this coming December 31st.
Source: ADCC |
Fraser,
Lewis and Seras named by USA Wrestling to coach 2004 U.S. Olympic
Team in Greco-Roman wrestling
USA
Wrestling has made its choice for the Olympic Coaches for the
2004 U.S. Olympic Team in Greco-Roman wrestling that will participate
in the Olympic Games in Athens, Greece.
Selected
to join USA Wrestling National Greco-Roman Coach Steve Fraser
of Colorado Springs, Colo. as Olympic Coaches in Greco-Roman
wrestling are Shon Lewis of Colorado Springs, Colo. and Andy
Seras of Sandy Hook, Conn. This selection has been forwarded
for final approval from the U.S. Olympic Committee.
Lewis
served as head coach of the 2003 U.S. Greco-Roman World team
that competed in Cretiel, France. The U.S. team placed 13th in
the standings. He served as the assistant coach of the 2002 U.S.
Greco-Roman World Team, which placed fifth in the World Championships
held in Moscow, Russia. Lewis has also served as a coach for
the U.S. World Military team, which competes at the annual CISM
World Military Championships. Lewis works as the coach of the
U.S. Army team, stationed in Fort Carson, Colo.
Seras
was head coach of the 2002 U.S. World Team, which competed in
Moscow, Russia. The team placed fifth in the standings. Seras
was the assistant coach for the 2001 U.S. World Team. When the
head coach could not attend the World Championships, Seras assumed
additional responsibility, serving as the head coach. The United
States won the third-place trophy, led by three medallists. As
an athlete, he competed in the 1988 Olympic Games. Seras works
as the head wrestling coach at Sacred Heart Univ.
Fraser
joined USA Wrestling as the National Greco-Roman Coach in October,
1995, serving as the full-time professional coach working with
the national Greco-Roman program. Fraser led the U.S. to its
best team performance ever at the 2001 World Championships with
the United States taking home the third place trophy. He also
led the U.S. to strong performances at the 1996 and 2000 Olympic
Games. In the 2000 Sydney Olympics, the U.S. won one gold, one
silver and one bronze medal. In the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, the
U.S. won three silver medals. As an athlete, Fraser won a gold
medal at 90 kg (198 lbs.) at the 1984 Olympics in Los Angeles,
becoming the first U.S. wrestler to win an Olympic gold medal
in Greco-Roman wrestling.
Complete
biographies of each Olympic Coach selection follows, as well
as quotes from each of the coaches.
The
two volunteer coaches selected as Olympic Coaches came from a
group of five finalists. Lewis and Seras were selected by the
USA Wrestling Greco-Roman Coach Selection Committee, then approved
by the USA Wrestling Executive Committee. All of the finalists
were interviewed by the Greco-Roman Coach Selection Committee.
The
other volunteer coaches who were finalists for the positions
were Jay Antonelli of Quantico, Va., Joe DeMeo of Niskayuna,
N.Y. and Rich Estrella of Colorado Springs, Colo.
USA
Wrestling will add one more official volunteer coach to the Greco-Roman
coaching staff at a later date.
QUOTES
FROM THE OLYMPIC COACH SELECTIONS
MEN*S
GRECO-ROMAN
Shon
Lewis of Colorado Springs, Colo.
*It
is a great honor to be recommended to be on the staff to take
our nation*s best athletes to the Athens Games to compete in
Greco-Roman wrestling. It is with pride that we work to help
develop young athletes to win medals and pursue their goals.
It is an honor to be selected to take on this task.*
*For
our team, mental toughness and mat awareness are important. We
have to learn to mentally will ourselves to victory. We have
to win the last two minutes of every match. That will be a big
focus for us, whether it is scoring points or getting the passivity
calls. Picking it up a knotch, and closing out the match is important.
As long as we stay focused, we are on the right track. We don*t
have to change anything * we just have to get better.*
Andy
Seras of Sandy Hook, Conn.
*I*m
excited. I*ve worked hard to get this opportunity. I think we
have a great chance to make history. My wife makes it possible
for me to volunteer as a coach. Joe DeMeo, my coach, mentor and
friend has shaped my entire wrestling career. Without him, it
would not have happened.*
*We
need to shore up some weaknesses, No. 1 being par terre defense.
We need to get them to believe in the depth of their minds that
they can be Olympic champions.*
(on
the difference between being an Olympic athlete and an Olympic
coach) *Part of being a wrestling is being selfish and putting
yourself and your training first. It is totally opposite as a
coach. You have to put yourself second always. You have to make
sure the athletes are happy, comfortable and have everything
provided for them in a professional manner.*
National
Greco-Roman Coach Steve Fraser of Colorado Springs, Colo.
(about
Lewis and Seras)
*Both add a freshness to our staff. They are young coaches, who
are very well respected by the top athletes. They are hungry
to win and do well. They are committed to the Greco-Roman program
and the plan. They care about all of the Greco-Roman athletes,
not just the wrestlers from their clubs. I*m real happy with
them, and all of the Greco-Roman coaches who volunteer their
time on the Senior level. We get along well, are on the same
page, and have the same commitment to the quest.*
*The
priority at hand is to get all seven weight classes qualified
at the two Olympic qualifiers remaining. It will be a great challenge.
There are about eight World medallists at every weight class
not qualified. These are serious and competitive. We treat these
events like the World Championships. We are preparing every day
for the Olympics. Our goal for the Olympics is four medals, with
two golds. Our goal is for all seven to place in the top eight,
and a first-place team finish. It is an aggressive goal for our
Greco-Roman program, but one I am confident we can achieve if
everyone prepares properly and everyone wrestles to their potential.*
BIOGRAPHY
SKETCHES OF OLYMPIC COACHES IN GRECO-ROMAN WRESTLING
Shon
Lewis of Colorado Springs, Colo.
Lewis
served as head coach of the 2003 U.S. Greco-Roman World team
that competed in Cretiel, France. The U.S. team placed 13th in
the standings, led by three athletes in the top 10 of their divisions.
He
served as the assistant coach of the 2002 U.S. Greco-Roman World
Team, which placed fifth in the World Championships held in Moscow,
Russia. The team was led by World Champion Dremiel Byers. Lewis
is also Byers* full-time club coach, a major reason that Byers
was able to develop into a World champion.
Lewis
works as the head coach of the U.S. Army team, stationed in Fort
Carson, Colo. He is responsible for training the athletes in
the Army*s World Class Athlete Program. The U.S. Army team features
a number of nationally-ranked athletes, including Byers, and
2001 U.S. World Team member Keith Sieracki. The team has won
the U.S. Nationals Greco-Roman team title for the last three
seasons.
Under
Lewis* guidance, the U.S. Army won the 2003 Armed Forces Championships,
claiming the title in both freestyle and Greco-Roman, as well
as the overall title. The U.S. Army has won the Armed Forces
title a number of times since Lewis became head coach. Lewis
has also served as a coach for the U.S. World Military team,
which competes at the annual CISM World Military Championships.
Lewis was also named 2002 Greco-Roman Coach of the Year by USA
Wrestling.
As
an athlete, Lewis competed on the 1993 and 1999 U.S. World Championships
teams. He also qualified for the 1998 U.S. World Team, but was
unable to participate in the World Championships that year. He
was a four-time U.S. Nationals Greco-Roman champion (1993-94,
1996, 1998), and was a medalist in three U.S. Olympic Team Trials
(1992, 1996, 2000).
Lewis
was a member of the U.S. Army team as an athlete, winning six
Armed Forces Greco-Roman titles and competing in the World Military
Championships. He was the 1993 U.S. Army Athlete of the Year,
an award including all sports in the Army*s program. Prior to
joining the Army, he attended the Univ. of Oregon, as well as
competing for Placer High School in Auburn, Calif.
Andy
Seras of Sandy Hook, Conn.
Seras
was head coach of the 2002 U.S. World Team, which competed in
Moscow, Russia. The team placed a strong fifth in the team standings,
led by individual gold-medalist Dremiel Byers.
Seras
was the assistant coach for the 2001 U.S. World Team, and worked
in that capacity during its training period. When the head coach
was injured and could not attend the World Championships, Seras
assumed additional responsibility on the coaching staff, serving
as the head coach. The United States won the third-place trophy,
led by three medalists: World champion Rulon Gardner and World
silver medalists Brandon Paulson and Matt Lindland. It was the
highest placement of a U.S. team ever at the Greco-Roman World
Championships.
He
was also the head coach of the 2001 U.S. Greco-Roman World Cup
team, which competed in France and placed third in the standings,
led by four individual medalists. Seras served as assistant coach
of the 2001 U.S. team in Poland, as well as assistant coach of
U.S. tour team that competed in Russia and Sweden.
Seras
was selected as the 2001 USA Wrestling Greco-Roman Coach of the
Year. He has coached a number of U.S. teams on international
tours. He is a club coach with the Atlas Wrestling Club and the
Sunkist Kids. He has also served on the coaching staff of the
Connecticut Junior National Team in 1999 and 2000.
He
works as the head wrestling coach at Div. I Sacred Heart Univ.,
where he is building a strong program. He was an assistant coach
at Sacred Heart for a number of years, and was previously an
assistant coach at SUNY-Albany.
Seras
was a member of the 1988 U.S. Olympic Team. He was a 1991 Pan
American Games champion, and placed second in the 1995 Pan American
Games. Seras claimed a gold medal at the 1994 World Cup. He competed
on five U.S. World teams, placing sixth in the 1991 World Championships
and ninth in the 1989 World Championships. Seras won five U.S.
National titles and made the finals of the U.S. Greco-Roman National
Championships for 12 straight years.
He
competed for SUNY-Albany, where he was a 1985 NCAA Div. III national
champion. He is originally from Niskayuna, N.Y., where he was
fourth in the New York state high school meet. Seras was a two-time
placewinner at the Junior World Championships.
National
Greco-Roman Coach Steve Fraser of Colorado Springs, Colo.
Steve
Fraser joined USA Wrestling as the National Greco-Roman Coach
in October, 1995. He serves as the full-time professional coach
working with the national Greco-Roman program and works to develop
Greco-Roman programs in the United States.
Fraser
led the U.S. to its best team performance ever at the 2001 World
Championships with the United States taking home the bronze team
medal. A U.S. Greco-Roman team had never won a team medal at
a World Championship.
Fraser
has worked hard to help improve the entire national Greco-Roman
effort, from youth through the Olympic levels. This was also
evident with the performance at the 2000 Olympic Games when the
U.S. won one gold, one silver and one bronze medal. Gold medalist
Rulon Gardner stunned the world with his win over unbeaten Alexander
Kareline of Russia during the Sydney Games. Fraser also coached
the 1996 U.S. Olympic team, that won three Olympic silver medals
in Atlanta, Ga.
He
also works closely with the U.S. Olympic Committee Greco-Roman
resident athlete program in Colorado Springs, Colo. Fraser has
created a number of new programs to assist in the development
of age-group wrestlers and coaches in Greco-Roman.
Fraser
won a gold medal at 90 kg (198 lbs.) at the 1984 Olympics in
Los Angeles, becoming the first U.S. wrestler to ever win an
Olympic gold medal in Greco-Roman wrestling. He won five matches
on the way to the title, including a 1-1 criteria decision over
Ilia Matei of Romania in the gold-medal finals. Among his key
victories was a 4-1 decision over three-time World Champion Frank
Andersson of Sweden.
He
also won a gold medal at the 1983 Pan American Games. Fraser
was a member of the 1979 and 1982 U.S. World Teams. He claimed
U.S. Nationals titles in Greco-Roman in 1981 and 1983, and was
a U.S. Nationals freestyle champion in 1984.
Fraser
was inducted as a Distinguished Member of the National Wrestling
Hall of Fame in 1994. He was named USA Wrestling Athlete of the
Year in 1984, and was a finalist for the James E. Sullivan Award
that year. He has been inducted into the Michigan Wrestling Hall
of Fame and the Michigan Amateur Sports Hall of Fame.
He
attended the Univ. of Michigan, where he was a two-time NCAA
All-American. Fraser received a bachelor*s degree in physical
education in 1980. He was a Michigan state high school champion
at Hazel Park High School.
Fraser
was a college and club coach after his competitive career was
over. He was an assistant coach at the Univ. of Michigan from
1980-87, and at Eastern Michigan Univ. from 1987-1993. He also
coached with the Michigan Wrestling Club for 10 years, working
with their elite wrestlers in both freestyle and Greco-Roman.
Fraser
came to USA Wrestling after serving with Domino*s Pizza for 10
years. His final position with the company was the Senior Operations
Director for the Flagship Academy for Domino*s Pizza, Inc., where
he directed 65 stores, including Domino*s Pizza*s most elite
corporate stores. Among his other positions were Special Projects
Coordinator, Manager of Public Affairs, National Director of
Sports Systems.
Source: ADCC |
Quote
of the Day
"When I hear somebody sigh, 'Life is hard,' I am always
tempted to ask, 'Compared to what?'"
Harris, American Journalist
|
Sperry
Set to Face Don Frye and Rogerio Close to Facing Sakuraba at
PRIDE!
By Eduardo
Alonso
As
the PRIDE New Year's Eve card continues to be built, a lot of
stars are being signed in an effort to be a step ahead of the
competition, as K-1 and Inoki are also putting cards on the same
day in Japan. An important part of that mix is, as it should
be, the Brazilian Top Team, and one of the most important fighters
on the team is now confirmed on the card. Jiu-Jitsu legend Mario
Sperry will be facing none other than PRIDE and UFC veteran Don
Frye in what promises to be an exciting fight matching up two
veterans with different fighting styles. DSE is likely to announce
this match-up this coming Wednesday. Another fight that is in
the works and is likely to be announced also is Rogerio "Minotoro"
Nogueira, twin brother of Rodrigo "Minotauro," facing
PRIDE legend Kazushi Sakuraba, who is coming off a win over Kevin
Randleman. Some details are still being negotiated, but this
fight is likely to be announced soon as well. Still on the subject
of the Brazilian Top Team, HEAT FC veteran Angelo Araujo, who
is fighting at the Antonio Inoki New Year's Eve show, will likely
be facing PRIDE Bushido veteran Alexander Emelianenko, brother
of Fedor Emelianenko, who defeated Assuerio Silva in his MMA
debut. FCF will keep an open eye on all the developments of the
negotiations.
Source: FCF |
4th
American International Championship of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu &
Submission Grappling
The
4th American International Championship of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
& Submission Grappling was held this past weekend in Costa
Mesa,Ca. Highlights of day one of the event were on the Black
Belts: Alberto Crane, who arm barred his opponent, James 'Avalanche'
Boran successful return to competition with a strong win and
Ryron Gracie taking the open Black Round Robin with a 7 x 4 victory
over current World Champion Cassio Werneck followed by a submission
win (arm-lock) over Valtinho' Nagakawa.
In
the Brown, once again Rafael Lovato Jr showed everyone why he
is considered one of the best in the World taking the division
easily, but the story of the tournament was the Purple belt division
with Lloyd Irvin's rising star Mike Fowler and wonder kid Ralek
Gracie facing each other in the absolute finals.
Both
Mike and Ralek won their weight division and signed for the absolute.
Fowler proceeded to mowed down his opponent's with the same efficiency
and technique that has conquered him all the events he has entered
of late while Ralek quickly submitted his opponent via foot lock
setting up the big match.
Fowler
opened up with a sweep followed by a guard pass and a quick 5
x 0 lead. At this point it appeared that his experience would
be too much for the young Ralek in just his second ever tournament.
Mike continued to attack and nearly got Ralek's back, but Ralek
mounted an offensive, first a vicious foot-lock that had everyone
grimacing including Fowler. But you don't win tournament by not
having heart and great escapes and Mike has both, he gutted out
of the lock, but the relentless Ralek went from half-guard to
pass to mount, as Mike quickly replace the half-guard Ralek went
for the arm and again appeared to have the fight ending sub,
but again 'Houdini' Fowler escaped and went back on the attack,
transforming a kimura from Ralek into an arm lock attempt that
ended up out of bounds.
In
the end of the great match it was Fowler with an 8 x 4 victory,
but both fighters showed everyone they are tops!
Lloyd's
crew continues to shine, it appears that his Grappling Blueprint
3 1/2 year plan is overshooting the mark, at this rate this kids
will start getting there in 1 1/2 : ) Lloyd stop teaching them!
! !
On
the other hand, young Ralek showed HUGE improvement in just one
year (since the USJJF tournament) and the 17 year old has a bright
future ahead of him!
Source: ADCC |
"Black
Belt Challenge - Hosted by Joe Moreira
Joe
Moreira announces the return of his famous Black Belt Challenge.
The traditional event took a hiatus but is now scheduled for
Fri., December 19, 2003, 7:00 pm to 9:00pm at the Hollywood Park
Casino in Los Angeles, CA. with a strong line up of fighters.
Scheduled
to fight:
Ricardo
Barros, Chris S., Ed Keller, Macaco, Paulo Gazze, Marc Kompaneyets,
Japa, Micah Cipili, Gustavo Moreira, Alexandre Brandao, Waldomiro,
Jr., Cleber Luciano, Joao Silva, Paolo Guillobel, Walter (Rodrigo
Medeiros), John Cunaha, Ricardo 'Franjinha' Miller, Gerald Weiner,
Wander Braga, Fabio Vinella, Dartanian Bagby & Ricardo Teixeira
. More names and the event format to be announced soon.
Tickets
will go fast so make sure to call quickly to reserve your spot.
Feel free to call Joe for more information or tickets at 949-254-3554
Prices
are:
Premier Seating: $50
Reserved Seating: $35
General: $20
Source: ADCC |
SHOOTO
ADDS LYTLE vs. SPRATT!
Friday,
January 2nd 7:30PM
Belleville Exposition Center
200 Southbelt East
Belleville, IL. (East St. Louis)
St.
Louis area fight fans are in for a monumental treat.
There's
nothing like ringing in the new year with some brews, babes and
battles and that's just what promoter Randy Greenman has in mind
for the 1/2/04 RSF/SHOOTO event.
As
with many MMA shows, keeping a rock-solid main event can be a
difficult thing to do.
The
original main event of CHRIS LYTLE vs. KARO PARISIAN was off
due to Karo accepting a UFC fight less than 4 weeks out which
is a 'no-no' for both Shooto and UFC.
Dennis
Hallman stepped up an accepted the fight but later had to pull
out. Hallman recommended northwest standout SCOTT NORTON. Norton
wanted to bring his 8-0 record to the Midwest against Lytle but
due to a severe family emergency pulled out of the fight.
'I
was to the point where I didn't even want to call anyone else'
says CO-matchmaker Jeff Osborne who shares booking duties with
Greenman and Shooto. 'I was so frustrated over keeping this one
fight together and the cost of plane tickets around showtime
that I was going nuts all weekend.'
Randy
Erikson, USA SHOOTO representative, suggested that a call to
PETE SPRATT should be made. After a few phone calls from both
Osborne and Erikson, Sven Bean called and said Pete would gladly
accept the fight.
IT
IS ON! Pete Spratt vs. Chris Lytle will do battle and both will
be brought back to UFC.....but one will get there a little quicker
after January 2nd.
Main
Event:
- Chris 'Lights Out' Lytle (Shooto Americas #3) vs Pete 'The
Secret Weapon' Spratt (A-class)
- Phil Johns (Shooto Americas #6) vs Steve Berger (A-class)
- Sam Morgan (Shooto Americas # 4) vs Manvel Gamburyan (A-class)
- Alex Steibling vs Mike Rogers (A-class)
- Curtis Stout (Shooto Americas #4) vs Mike Rothmeir (A-class)
- Ginelle Marquez vs Kelly Kobald (B-class)
- Mark Long vs Jay Estrada (B-class)
- Doug Sauer vs Travis Fulton (B-class)
- Ryan Maynor vs Heath Pedigo (B-class)
- Matt Schwinnen vs Bill Hill (B-class)
Area
fans are no strangers to Randy Greenman's RSF shows. He's drawn
as many as 2,400 fans to his events with zero advertising! This
show is no different as nearly 900 tickets have been sold at
an alarmingly fast pace.
This
event also marks the first time ever that a women's MMA bout
will take place in Illinois.
Look
for more news in the upcoming weeks!
For
ticket information call (314) 832-3489 or visit
WWW.RSFSHOOTOCHALLENGE.COM
WWW.SHOOTOAMERICAS.COM
Source: ADCC |
HORN
DEFEATS LISTER SO WHAT'S NEXT...
THE UFC OR FIGHTING DAVID LOISEAU?
The big question for Jeremy Horn, what is next? Horn looked great
against Dean Lister over the weekend at King of the Cage. The
fight turned out to be a bloody battle as Horn cut Lister early
in the fight on the forehead.
It
was a forearm/elbow that did the damage and split open Lister.
Then Horn almost finished the fight in the first round, but Lister,
somehow escaped out of a tight triangle choke in the first round.
From then on Lister wasn't able to muster much of an attack.
According to various media at the event, most people had Horn
winning the fight 3 rounds to 1 round.
Now
what is next for Horn? He most likely will give up the King of
the Cage title and pursue fighting at both 205 and 185. Horn
would prefer to fight in the UFC at 185, but there are strong
indications until the UFC calls, he will take a fight against
David Loiseau in the TKO promotion in February.
The
UFC seemed to be interested in Horn fighting at 185, but after
a lackluster performance against Vernon Tiger White in Las Vegas
last year, the UFC made it clear, you can't just win... you have
to win impressively.
Now
fast forward a year later and Horn has made it understood, he's
ready to FIGHT, with the word FIGHT being the key word in the
equation. Horn was sensational at the IFC event in Denver in
June and since then has focused on being an exciting fighter
and has delivered on becoming more aggressive in his fights including
this weekend against Lister.
So
what are the possibilites of Horn fighting in the UFC? You would
think pretty good since Phil Baroni was suspended for a year
and now the only fighter they have as a legit contender at 185
seems to be Matt Lindland. When Horn was asked about fighting
in the UFC at 185 he said "I would love to fight for the
UFC at 185, but until they call I have to keep fighting to make
a living."
Don't
look for Horn to drop to 185 immediately. Horn's promoter Monte
Cox told MMAWeekly "You got to remember the money at 205
is better than 185. So I think you will be able to see Jeremy
compete in both divisions for now."
Source: MMA Weekly |
Fanning
the Flames as the HEAT is Coming:
Forrest Griffin Returns to the Brazilian Spotlight at HEAT FC
2!
Taking
the MMA world by storm last July 31st with his submission win
over seasoned veteran Ebenezer Fontes Braga at HEAT FC 1, youngster
Forrest Griffin out of Athens, GA, suddenly got the recognition
his fighting skills and raw talent should have got him long ago.
Ever since his amateur days Forrest was adding win after win
to his record, scoring armbars and chokes and amazing those who
were close to him at that time. Later, in his first venture as
a pro, Griffin faced much more experienced and much heavier Dan
Severn, only to lose by judge's decision. His next six professional
fights saw six impressive wins, including names such as Jeff
Monson and Travis Fulton. However, as he was getting ready for
bigger opportunities a broken hand would sideline Forrest for
quite a while, making him miss a potential fight against Bobby
Hoffman and having him wonder about his future. However, it would
be a matter of time until he would be back on track again as
faith would give him a shot at facing tough veteran Ebenezer
Braga in the inaugural HEAT show, all the way down in Brazil!
In what seemed a risky move, Griffin went down to Brazil to score
a rear naked choke and get the win in under four minutes, and
doors started to open again. Next step for Forrest was his IFC
tournament appearance, where he proved his potential again in
both winning and losing efforts, as he submitted Team Quest member
Chael Sonner with a triangle choke, and lost to UFC and PRIDE
veteran Jeremy Horn by KO, in an exciting match up that he won't
forget soon. Already known in our sport's biz, Forrest Griffin
is now taking his game to Brazil once again at HEAT FC 2, where
he will most certainly prove his skills once again and show a
bit more of his sense of humor, as this guy is truly one of the
most humble fighters you'll ever meet! As HEAT FC 2 Evolution
approaches, Full Contact Fighter is gearing up the expectations
for what promises to be one of the best MMA shows in Brazil in
recent times, and so we bring you Forrest Griffin as he talks
about his last fights and his next tasks!
FCF:
Your last fights took place at the IFC tourney, where you won
your first fight before losing in the second one. Besides the
actual results of your fights, what was your general feeling
of being part of that show?
Forrest Griffin: Just being around the fighters and being at
an event of that caliber made me think, "shit this really
is a professional sport!" The athletes were there to win
and they trained and lived like professionals. They didn't mess
around, for them it was not a vacation, it was work and it showed
in their performances. The event itself was organized and ran
like a German clock.
FCF:
In your first fight you submitted wrestler Chael Sonnen by triangle.
You mentioned to me, before the tournament, that you would be
happy if you would just win the first fight. Did you really feel
happy with it after the show?
FG: Hell no! That was garbage! I don't know what I was talking
about. I think I was afraid to come out and say "I want
to win". But I should have gone Quinton Jackson's style
and just said "damn I want that money!". After I lost
I was depressed as hell and wanted to quit all together.
FCF:
What did you think of your fight against Sonnen, and do you like
to fight from the bottom, using your guard?
FG: Junk, nobody wants to see a guy just sit in his guard and
protect himself. It's performances like that that give Jiu-Jitsu
a bad name. The guard can be exciting. My guard can be exciting!
FCF:
After your win over Chael, you ended up facing experienced fighter
Jeremy Horn, in a fight that was somewhat even before you got
surprised by a kick and ended up knocked out. How do you analyze
that fight?
FG: I mostly try not to think about it, I just have nightmares.
He out worked me and he wanted to win more than I did. Oh yeah,
and he's real slick too! I really like the guy, but God, I want
to fight him again.
FCF:
You seemed to take your loss quite well, so this may sound as
a dumb question, but how did it feel to be knocked out for the
first time in your career?
FG: I'd rather get knocked out in grand fashion than lose a decision
where I fight "smart". I'm never going to be one of
the top level guys, so I don't worry about wins and losses, or
at least I try real hard not to, but I want to be exciting.
FCF:
I have to say I think you're on the verge of being one of the
top guys, and it's good to see you're still humble [Laughs].
Anyway, you're now about to return to action fighting at HEAT
FC 2 Evolution. What are your expectations for this fight?
FG: I'm ready to fight again. It's been a long time and I'd like
to fight more often, except that I keep breaking stuff and that
makes it hard [Laughs].
FCF:
Your opponent is Edson Paredao, who is somewhat unknown for the
international public. What do you know about your opponent and
what do you expect from him?
FG: I really don't know anything about him except he's big and
strong, and has anice straight right hand, which I'd like to
stay clear of.
FCF:
This is a smart move! [Laughs] Did you change anything in your
training for this fight? What did you emphasize the most training
for HEAT FC 2?
FG: All kidding aside I added alcohol, lots of it, to my diet
and went out a lot more. I also started working at a strip joint
and keeping odd hours [Laughs]
FCF:
Damn! Let's take it as an improvement on your part! [Laughs]
You also took part on HEAT FC 1, defeating seasoned veteran Ebenezer
Braga. What do you recall from that experience, and do you think
that win will give you some support and recognition from the
crowd in Brazil?
FG: Sure! The fans down there appreciate the sport and a good
"balls to wall" performance. That's what they got last
time this is what they will get this time.
FCF:
You're now fighting on a card with other famous fighters such
as Allan Goes, Carlos Barreto, Ebenezer Braga, Gustavo Ximu,
Travis Wiuff, and others you saw fighting before such as Eric
Wanderlei, who was also in the IFC. Are there any fighters that
you're looking forward to see competing live at the show?
FG: I can't wait to see some of those fights. I tell the American
fans who probably don't know of him to watch Eric Wanderlei!
He fought in the IFC with one days notice and no time to adjust
to the Denver alttitude, which is a killer. But despite all that
he still showed me how good a fight can look on the ground.
FCF:
After your win over Braga at HEAT 1, and your display of skills
at the IFC you became known and rumors are always flying around
about Forrest Griffin. After HEAT FC 2, what's next for you?
FG: A lot of dieting [Laughs], I'm fighting Marvin Eastman on
January 17th.
FCF:
This is going to be also a great fight! Any final messages for
the fans?
FG: Don't be my fans, guys in the NFL have fans. Randy [Couture],
Chuck [Liddell], and Tito [Ortiz] have fans, I just have friends.
FCF:
There you have it! Thank you very much for your time Forrest
and the best of luck at HEAT FC 2!
FG: Thank you Eduardo.
Source: FCF |
Wrestling
Weekend Wrap-Up
By: Eddie Goldman
IOWA
STATE DOWNS IOWA, 21-13, TO END 30-MATCH LOSING STREAK; OKLAHOMA
STATE DOWNS OKLAHOMA AT BEDLAM; LEHIGH, PENN, PENN STATE, COLUMBIA,
NAVY NEWS
The
last time the Iowa State Cyclones defeated their in-state rivals,
the University of Iowa Hawkeyes, in a dual meet, Ronald Reagan
was president, there was no World Wide Web, and the Berlin Wall
still stood. That was in 1987, some 30 dual meets ago.
That
all changed Sunday afternoon, as Iowa State won six matches out
of ten, including the final five, to defeat Iowa 21-13 at home
in Hilton Coliseum in Ames, before a crowd of 5149. Iowa State
upped its unbeaten mark this season to 7-0, while Iowa is now
4-1. While the Red Sox and Cubs may still have to wait, one of
college wrestling's longest losing streaks is now over.
With
unbeaten Nebraska winning the Cliff Keen Las Vegas Invitational,
in which Illinois took fourth, and Iowa falling to Iowa State,
it will once again be interesting to see just whom the pundits
anoint as number one in this week's polls. Unlike college football,
with its hopelessly flawed BCS computer rankings devised by hopelessly
flawed human beings, the real national champions in college wrestling
will be decided by head-to-head competition, in the NCAA Div.
I Wrestling Championships this coming March in St. Louis.
Also
on Sunday, Oklahoma State prevailed in the 146th edition of Bedlam
by defeating in-state rival Oklahoma, 23-12. The crowd in Gallagher-Iba
Arena totaled 7402. With over 5000 watching Iowa State-Iowa and
over 7000 watching Oklahoma State-Oklahoma in early season duals,
the popularity of college wrestling seems to be on the rise.
We
also have results from Lehigh at the Sheridan Duals, the University
of Pennsylvania, Penn State, Columbia, and Navy, all compiled
from the press releases sent to us by these teams.
THE
UNIVERSITY OF IOWA
HAWKEYES
LOSE TO IOWA STATE, 21-13
AMES,
IA -- The University of Iowa wrestling team lost its first dual
of the season, 21-13, to Iowa State Sunday in Ames. A crowd of
5,149 saw the loss that snapped Iowa's 30-match winning streak
against the Cyclones.
Iowa senior Tyler Nixt started things off with a 19-8 major decision
over Nels Matson at 174. The win was the 95th of his career,
and he improves to 15-0 on the season. Iowa State's Kurt Backes
put the Cyclones on the board with a late takedown to defeat
Hawkeye sophomore Paul Bradley, 4-3, at 184.
The Hawkeyes won the next three matches, starting with Hawkeye
senior Ryan Fulsaas' 3-2 win over Cyclone Trevor Smith at 197,
making the team score 7-3. At heavyweight, Hawkeye redshirt freshman
Ryan Fuller added three more team points with his 10-5 decision
over Iowa State's Richard Schopf. Hawkeye senior Luke Eustice
improved to 7-0 on the season with a 7-5 win over Cyclone Grant
Nakamura at 125 to make the team score 13-3.
The Cyclones started a roll of their own at 133, when senior
Zach Roberson scored a 10-5 decision over Iowa redshirt freshman
Todd Meneely. At 141, Iowa State sophomore Nate Gallick defeated
Hawkeye senior Cliff Moore, 6-3. Hawkeye sophomore Ty Eustice
scored a late escape in regulation at 149 to take Cyclone redshirt
freshman Trent Paulson to sudden victory, but Paulson scored
a takedown and backpoints in the overtime to win the match 5-1.
Iowa State took a two-point team lead at 157 when
Cyclone redshirt freshman Travis Paulson held off a late comeback
from Iowa sophomore Joe Johnston to win, 7-4. Cyclone senior
Nick Passolano sealed the streak-snapping win with his 36-second
pin of Hawkeye redshirt freshman Cole Pape at 165.
In other competition, Hawkeye freshman Mark Perry won the 165-pound
title and sophomore Lucas Magnani placed third at 125 at the
Northern Iowa Open Saturday in Cedar Falls.
Iowa (4-1) will host Northern Iowa (1-1) in its home opener Thursday
at 7 p.m. at Carver-Hawkeye Arena in Iowa City.
INDIVIDUAL
MATCH RESULTS
Iowa State 21, Iowa 13
174 Tyler Nixt (I) maj. dec. Nels Matson (ISU), 19-8
184 Kurt Backes (ISU) dec. Paul Bradley (I), 4-3
197 Ryan Fulsaas (I) dec. Trevor Smith (ISU), 3-2
Hwt Ryan Fuller (I) dec. Richard Schopf (ISU), 10-5
125 Luke Eustice (I) dec. Grant Nakamura (ISU), 7-5
133 Zach Roberson (ISU) dec. Todd Meneely (I), 10-5
141 Nate Gallick (ISU) dec. Cliff Moore (I), 6-3
149 Trent Paulson (ISU) dec. Ty Eustice (I), 5-1
157 Travis Paulson (ISU) dec. Joe Johnston (I), 7-4
165 Nick Passolano (ISU) pinned Cole Pape (I), 0:36
OKLAHOMA
STATE
Cowboys
Win Round 1 of Bedlam, 23-12
Cowboys
Win Round 1 of Bedlam, 23-12
Thompson earns fall; Ward, Lewis record major decisions.
STILLWATER,
Okla. (OSU Athletics ) ' Senior Johnny Thompson fueled the Cowboys
to a 23-12 victory over No. 14 Oklahoma in their conference home
opener Sunday afternoon in Gallagher-Iba Arena.
The
Oklahoma City, Okla., native only needed 1:54 to pin OU's Mimi
Miller, sending the crowd of 7,402 to its feet after referee
Pat Fitzgerald slapped the mat. The win gave OSU a 6-3 advantage
over the Sooners.
'It's
going to be very important in any of our dual meets to have the
opportunity to pick up a pin or a major decision,' Head Coach
John Smith said. 'Until we can establish oursevles in a few weight
classes outside of our four or five regulars, we are going to
have to pick them (bonus points) up.'
OU's
defending national champion Teyon Ware wrestled in his first
match of the season against Ronnie Delk. After a scoreless first
period, Delk got on the board first with a reversal. Ware cut
the lead to 2-1 with an escape and then took the lead with a
takedown with 11 seconds left. Delk then tied it at 3-3 with
a buzzer-beating escape.
Ware
then scored an escape and a takedown in the third to record the
6-4 victory, and to tie the team score at 6-6.
Zack
Esposito's 9-4 decision over Jeff Ecklof started a string of
five wins for the Cowboys. Kevin Ward would notch his first conference
win at 157 with a 13-3 major decision over Charles Jones, while
Tyrone Lewis recorded three takedowns and a pair of three-point
nearfalls en route to a 16-4 major decision over Rafael Maturino.
'He
(Kevin Ward) has done a good job,†Smith said.
'He's having an opportunity now to do something that he hasn't
had in two years, and he is taking advantage of it right now.
'157
pounds is another strong weight class for us right now,' Smith
said. 'Johny Hendricks just finished up winning a tournament
up at Fort Hays this past weekend, and both of those guys will
get the opportunity to go at Reno.'
Chris
Pendleton defeated E.K. Waldhaus, 4-2, and OSU's defending national
champion Jake Rosholt won his first match of the year, defeating
Justin Dyer, 3-0.
The
Sooners got decisions from Sam Hazewinkle, Joel Flaggert and
Leonce Crump.
The
Cowboys return to action on Dec. 14 with a pair of duals against
Oregon State and Oregon.
Results
OSU - 23, OU - 12
125 - Sam Hazewinkle (OU) dec. Cody Stites (OSU), 5-2
133 - Johnny Thompson (OSU) fall Mimi Miller (OU), 1:54
141 - Teyon Ware (OU) dec. Ronnie Delk (OSU), 6-4
149 - Zack Esposito (OSU) dec. Jeff Ecklof (OU), 9-4
157 - Kevin Ward (OSU) m.d. Charles Jones (OU), 13-3
165 - Tyrone Lewis (OSU) m.d. Rafael Maturino (OU), 16-4
174 - Chris Pendleton (OSU) dec. E.K. Waldhaus (OU), 4-2
184 - Jake Rosholt (OSU) dec. Justin Dyer (OU), 3-0
197 - Joel Flaggert (OU) dec. Rusty Blackmon (OSU), 2-1
285 - Leonce Crump (OU) dec. Will Gruenwald (OSU), 7-2
OKLAHOMA
Sooner
Wrestling Loses To Oklahoma State, 23-12
Oklahoma Wins Four Matches in Bedlam Dual.
NORMAN,
Okla. - The No. 15 ranked Oklahoma wrestling team lost to Oklahoma
State in front of a crowd of 7,402 fans in Gallagher-Iba Arena
on Sunday. Red-shirt freshman Sam Hazewinkel, sophomore Teyon
Ware, freshman Joel Flaggert and senior Leonce Crump won their
matches tonight at 125, 141, 197 and HWT respectively.
'We
are extremely young,' head coach Jack Spates said. 'We had six
freshmen in there. I am just disappointed in the number of warnings
that we received. You have to battle out there, and we felt that
we had a real good shot to win five matches if we wrestled the
way that we are capable of. The bottom line is that you have
to do more.'
Ware
made his return to the mat after injury held him out for the
start of the season. Ware decisioned Ronnie Delk of Oklahoma
State, 6-4 in a close match as defending national champion.
'From
the beginning I just played this match by ear,' Ware said. 'I
did not know how I was going to feel coming into this match.
I was a little nervous when I came out because this was my first
match back and it was bedlam. I am not throwing any excuses out
there. He wrestled a great match. He kept it close, which was
what a lot of the fans were hoping for. He is a tough wrestler
and I will get another chance at him.'
Hazewinkel
maintains his undefeated streak with a 5-2 decision of Cody Sites
of Oklahoma State. The win puts Hazewinkel at 12-0 on the year
with his first dual win of the season.
Flaggert
won his match with Rusty Blackmon of Oklahoma State by a 2-1
decision. Flaggert reversed Blackmon in the second period to
receive his only points of the match, which were enough to hold
off Blackmon for the win.
'Sam
and Joel Flaggert were excellent,' Spates said. 'They both wrestled
extremely hard.'
Crump
decisioned Will Gruenwald of Oklahoma State, 7-2 in the last
match of the dual. Crump pulled away in the third period after
a 2-0 lead through the first and second periods by recording
two takedowns to finish off Gruenwald.
“We
wrestled a great team, but a team that is vulnerable. We just
have to do more to put ourselves in a position to win,â€
Spates said.
Oklahoma
will next travel Edmond Okla. to take on Bacone College and Central
Oklahoma on Dec. 12, at 4 p.m.
LEHIGH
Bethlehem,
PA - In Lehigh's first match of the day, the Mountain Hawks overpowered
EIWA foe American, winning by a score of 38-9. Head coach Greg
Strobel elected to use the match get some mat time for more of
the wrestling squad, as Mario Stuart, Matt Ciasulli, and Matt
Cassidy were the only starters to wrestle. The match only included
seven matches, as American forfeited at three weights.
At
125, Mario Stuart came out firing, executing a takedown and a
three-point near fall in the first period. He never let up either,
winning over Matt Pelligrino by tech fall at 6:44 by a score
of 20-3. Then, at 133, Matt Ciasulli gained his team-leading
third pin on the season, toppling Ben Lamson in just 1:13.
Mark
McCauley made his first appearance of the year at 141, losing
a very close match to Daniel Lobsenz. Lobsenz executed a takedown
with just :10 left on the clock in the third period to take the
victory 3-2. Tommy Rohn returned to the mat at 149, and Lehigh
lost another thriller when Tim Kneizewski beat the buzzer with
a match-tying takedown in the third, then scored another takedown
in overtime to win 11-9.
The
Mountain Hawks then took the next three weights by forfeit, with
Derek Zinck, Mike Maceroli, and Brad Dillon picking up the wins.
At 184, Dan Waters continued American’s efforts,
beating Dave Helfrich with the only takedown of the match, winning
3-2. At 197, Matt Cassidy improved to 5-1 on the season with
his first pin, taking down Adam Montgomery at 1:51. Finally,
at heavyweight, Anthony Livecchi won his first match by besting
Jared Hyman 8-6.
In
an exhibition matchup, Lehigh’s Jon Bruno defeated
Joe Maroney of Rider by tech fall, 16-0. Lehigh will finish off
the Sheridan Duals with a match with Rider at 2:00. In an earlier
match at 10:00am, Rider defeated American 46-3.
Weight
Matchup Result
125 Mario Stuart (LU) over Matt Pelligrino (AU) WTF, 20-3 (6:44)
133 Matt Ciasulli (LU) over Ben Lamson (AU) WBF, 1:13
141 Daniel Lobsenz (AU) over Mark McCauley (LU) 3-2
149 Tim Kniezewski (AU) over Tommy Rohn (LU) 11-9 (OT)
157 Derek Zinck (LU) forfeit
165 Mike Maceroli (LU) forfeit
174 Brad Dillon (LU) forfeit
184 Dan Waters (AU) over Dave Helfrich (LU) 3-2
197 Matt Cassidy (LU) over Adam Montgomery (AU) WBF, 1:51
HWT Anthony Livecchi (LU) over Jared Hyman (AU) 8-6
Bethlehem,
PA – Senior Mario Stuart began the match by
picking up his second win of the day with a 5-3 win over Jim
DiCisco in a match that was tight throughout. Don Fisch of Rider
than controlled the next match as he defeated Matt Ciasulli of
Lehigh by a score of 7-1, to tying the team scores at three.
Ninth ranked Cory Cooperman helped the Mountain Hawks regain
the lead with a 12-6 victory over Mike Molosky of the Broncs,
in a match that Cooperman controlled throughout.
Freshman
Matt Anderson then dueled with Labe Black in a bout that was
close throughout, but Anderson was able to prevail as he came
out on top with a 5-4 victory at 149. At 157, Derek Zinck engaged
in a very close and entertaining battle with Dave Miller, as
both wrestlers tried to gain control of the bout, but neither
able to pull away. In the end, Zinck prevailed with a 3-1 victory
and the Mountain Hawks led 12-3.
Mike
Macerolli then got on the mat for the first time this season,
after winning a decision by forfeit earlier in the day against
American. Macerolli had a tough time against Ryan Cunningham,
who came out fired up early and took control of the bout. Cunningham
won the 165 pound by major decision with a score of 15-7, as
the Broncs closed to within 12-7 overall. But, senior All-American
Brad Dillon quickly put an end to that with a win by technical
fall, as he defeated Chris Marold 20-5, and put the Mountain
Hawks back up by ten, 17-7.
| |