Mike Garcia, Junior Director
Richard Fergola, Cadet Director
Jason Blanding
Shawn Bunch
Dennis Charbonneau
Austin DeVoe
Russ Hermreck
Brent Lane
Luke Metzler
Chad Parks
Tom Peterman
Scott Rieck
Kenny Taylor, Jr.
Beau Vest

It was a pleasure to be able to work with the kids and coaches at this year's championships.  Also, I'd like to recognize the work performed by our Kansas officials at Fargo.  On the mat were Mark Anderson and Charles Knox, and working at the pairings table were Sheryl Anderson, Marcie Altman, Cherie Elvin, Leanna Grater.  Without these volunteers, and hundreds of others from around the country, this event would not be possible.

Furches #2279
Nathan Furches scored his points one at a time in his matchup with Wisconsin. Nathan was in control for the duration and won the match, 4-0.

Women’s Division:

Mercer #5
Wrestling for the first time in Fargo, Emma Mercer made the most of her opportunity. Emma competed against a wrestler from Oregon and it was all Emma. She scored a 3-point takedown and a 2-point tilt to take the early lead. Then it was a 1-point takedown a tilt using the power half and then a crotch lift to earn the tech fall with 1.49 remaining in the first period.

Karol #14
In her first match of the tournament, Tina Karol was not so lucky. She gave up the takedown to a gal from Pennsylvania and then didn’t have the defense to stop successive guts. Tina loses by tech fall in 0.59.

Mercer #70
After the initial scramble in which Tina Mercer was credited with 2-points and North Carolina with 3, Tina could not stop the Tarheel. Tina loses by fall in 0.56.

Junior Division:

Garcia #1649
Making quick work of his opponent from Iowa, Cody Garcia advances and remains undefeated. Cody scored the initial takedown and scored on three gut wrenches to earn first period tech.

Baldridge #1655
I joined this match in progress with Josh Baldridge holding an 11-8 lead over a foe from Illinois. Over the next few moments the Illini took the lead 12-17. Josh tried to come back but fell just short, losing by a tally of 15-17.

Cornejo #1710
After a fairly shaky day yesterday Joe Cornejo remained undefeated with a solid performance against a wrestler from Georgia. Neither wrestler managed a takedown in the match but Georgia was called for passivity. Joe locked up the high gut and turned his opponent with it four times. Cornejo wins, 11-0.

Grater #1730
Taking the early 3-0 lead in this match was Danny Grater. Though the wrestler from North Carolina did score 3-points of his own, Danny controlled the match, winning it 10-3.

Fitzgerald #1800
It was Conor Fitzgerald’s turn in his match against a competitor from Oklahoma. This match was a donnybrook if I’ve ever seen one. The combatants took turns exchanging the lead four times. Conor took the lead one last time late in the second period, 8-7. But then Conor was caught in a hip toss and pinned with 1.08 remaining.

Shumate #1859
Nick Shumate made lightening quick work over a wrestler from Connecticut. Nick scored the initial takedown then successive guts to win by tech with only 0.48 seconds gone.

Garcia #1909
Using a couple of takedowns and a couple varieties of tilts Cody Garcia dismantled a foe from Pennsylvania. Cody scores an 11-0 tech fall.

Cornejo #1954
Staying on a roll, Joe Cornejo pinned a chap from Illinois. Joe with the fall at 1.58.

Anderson #1988
Dave Anderson would come up short in his matchup with Minnesota. Though he fought hard he was unsuccessful, losing by tech fall, 0-11, at 2.36 in the second.

Fitzgerald #2010
It was back on the winning track in Conor Fitzgerald’s match with Ohio. From the opening whistle Conor put on a wrestling display. Conor wins, 8-1.

Garcia #2073
Suffering his first loss was Cody Garcia as he waged war with a foe from Maryland. The combatants exchanged the lead several times till with 0.23 Cody scored on a 2-point monkey roll that led the wrestlers out-of-bounds. Restarting on top Cody gave up a reversal and then a 2-point gut. In overtime the Terrapin scored a 2-point takedown to steal the win. Cody loses by the count of 10-12.

Cornejo #2006
Keeps it rolling along might be the theme for Joe Cornejo in this bout against Michigan. Joe wins the 7-3 decision.

Grater #2116
Only in Greco and Freestyle bracketing can you suffer a loss, and in the very next round face an even tougher obstacle. But that is exactly what happened to Danny Grater. In his last match, Danny lost to Matt Collum, an All-American from Illinois and in this match he faced Michigan’s super sensation, Brett Metcalf. Danny really wrestled well but it was not good enough. Grater loses by tech fall, 0-11.

Hansen #1965
Needing this match to stay alive, Paul Hansen faced a foe from Iowa. But Paulie could not mount enough offense as he lost by tech fall, 3-13.

Edison #2062
Waiting till the last moment was Jarrett Edison in this bout against Virginia. The Cavalier capitalized on a 3+1 toss to take the lead at the end of the first period. The second began and at 1.03 the Virginian was charged with passivity. Jarrett scored a 2-point tilt and at 0.39 they were put back on their feet. At 0.17 the wrestlers returned from going out-of-bounds. Then at 0.02, Jarrett hit a 3-point throw. Edison wins, 5-4.

Altman #2095
Giving up an early takedown and 2-point gut, Donny Altman was trailing a wrestler from Massachusetts. Donny would begin a comeback with his own 1-point takedown a 2-point gut. Then Donny would go ahead, stopping a shot attempt with a monkey roll for 2. The lead was 5-3 after one period and after the second started, the opponent would score a 1-pointer. On bottom in par terre Donny would allow a 2+1 tilt before they were put back to their feet. With 24 seconds left, Donny was looking, but the defense was too good. Donny loses, 5-7.

Ely #2103
Using a series of 1-point takedowns and a 2-point gut Aaron Ely built his lead to 6-0. The Californian finally managed a last second takedown but Aaron had earned the win.

Fisher #2126
Using the cross-knee pick, Blake Fisher took an early lead. Blake used another 1-pointer on the chap from Washington before he figured out his own offense. The opponent hit a 3-pointer and a 2-point gut to take the lead, which he would not give up. Blake loses, 3-7.

Edison #2159
The tournament would come to an end for Jarrett Edison as he faced a wrestler from Pennsylvania. Though one always waits till the final whistle with Jarrett, this time he suffered a 0-4 loss.

Ramirez #75
In his opening bout of the tourney, Josh Ramirez really handled a competitor from Indiana. Josh took an early 5-point lead but gave most of it back when the Hoosier hit a throw for a 3+1. Josh fought off his back and earned his feet. Once there, it was all Ramirez as he secured the 14-4 tech fall with 2.03 left in the match.

Nothern #107
A wrestler from Colorado provided a stern test for Nick Nothern. Perhaps a bit too stern as Nick went down to defeat, 6-10. But that doesn’t quite tell the whole story. Nick was slick on his feet, 6 nice takedowns for a total of 6 points and complete domination of 5 ½ minutes of the match. His opponent hit a couple of reversals and a couple of tilts and controlled 30 seconds of the bout. Regardless, a loss for Nick.

Woodford #122
The first 30 seconds of Jeb Woodford’s match was quite a battle but Jeb could not score against New Jersey’s challenger. From that point on, the Garden Stater dominated the match earning a 0-10 tech fall in the first period.

Bloodgood #167
Pennsylvania proved to be too tough for Cory Bloodgood. The PA wrestler earned a first period, 0-10, tech fall.

Knox #205
I thought I was attending some gymnastic meet as Charles “Toast” Knox pulled a very slick move to escape his opponent’s early takedown. The Iowan was not impressed though he gave up the takedown. Toast went on to lose by a 2-12 tech fall.

Ellison #211
It seemed to be a bit of a trend that unfortunately, Aaron Ellison could not break. Aaron an accomplished folk style wrestler is finding the competition pretty tough in this discipline. California taught him a lesson to the tune of 2-12.

Cornejo #262
Even an experienced freestyler can find some real challenges in Fargo, North Dakota. That was the case for Joe Cornejo as he matches skills against Pennsylvania. It was PA on the board first earning a 3-pointer from Joe. Joe quickly closed the gap earning a reversal with exposure for 2. Early in the 2nd period, Joe scored the equalizing takedown. The next 2 ½ minutes were a real battle. They went out-of-bounds and restarted with 1.04 remaining and again at 0.32. Finally, Joe earned a 2-pointer with 5 seconds on the clock. Final score, 5-3.

Grater #348
A beautiful inside trip for three points, off the Russian 2-on-1, was the highlight move in Danny Grater’s dismantling of a foe from Virginia. Grater earns a 11-0 tech fall in 1.37.

Erisman #370
A 2003 Cadet National Champ, Neil Erisman, opened up his 2004 Junior division campaign. He used a snap and spin to score the initial takedown and scored 3, 2+1 trapped arm guts for the balance. Neil wins, 10-0.

Keane #389
For Patrick Keane, a California opponent would give him an awakening in the tournament. The score was reasonably close at the break, 1-3, but in the second Keane had 10 additional points scored on him. Keane loses by tech fall, 1-13.

Fitzgerald #448
The highlight of this match was a freight train double leg. Conor Fitzgerald hit a chap from Louisiana with it for 3. It took Conor, 1.37 seconds to earn the 10-0 tech fall.

Caylor #493
Cole Caylor opened the tourney against a foe from Oregon. Unfortunately Cole did not have a successful audition. Caylor loses by tech, 2-13 at 0.57 in the first.

Cisper #502
The state of North Carolina provided the competition for Neil Cisper. The Tarheel scored first on 1-point takedown and a 2-point tilt before Neil managed a 1-point reversal. The ref put them back on their feet where Cisper scored a 1-point takedown that carried the wrestlers out-of-bounds. On the restart Neil scored 2+1 on the high gut. His opponent did work for the 1-point reversal as the period ended. Ahead 5-4, Neil was charged with fleeing before giving up a 2-point tilt. In the process of the tilt Neil was charged with an infraction and was trailing 5-8 as they were back on their feet. The last 32 seconds clicked off with a scramble. The result was a loss for Cisper, 7-9.

Elliott #613
Obviously, the man was in a hurry. Tim Elliott ran onto the mat, hooked a lad for Indiana in a front headlock for two, then Tim commenced to bow-and-arrow the Hoosier four times. Tim stayed around long enough for the ref to raise his hand and for the post match formalities, then, Tim ran off the mat. He earned the tech fall in about 40 seconds.

Wall #640
Though not quite as speedy as his teammate, Isaac Wall earned his own tech fall. Isaac opened with a near-arm-far-leg takedown for 3, and then he scored on 4 or 5 arm drags, and a far side cradle. Wall wins over Connecticut, 12-1.

Baldridge #705
The trend of speedy tech falls continued as Josh Baldridge dismantled a wrestler from Arizona. In 2.18 Baldridge tallies the 11-1 tech fall.

Baker #739
Again he have a wrestler that is great on his feet in Grant Baker matched against the mat skills of a wrestler from Indiana. It seemed Grant would score the 1-point takedown and the Hoosier would score the 2-point reversal. Baker trailed 3-5 at the end of the first. The trend continued until late in the second when Grant pulled ahead scoring a 3-point takedown. With 15 seconds left and Grant ahead 9-8 one was hopeful. The Hoosier scored the equalizer and in overtime scored again to dash away any hopes.

Weatherbee #800
A sweet back trip put a wrestler from Utah ahead of Tait Weatherbee, 0-3. Back on their feet Tait would manage a 1-pointer and a 2-point crotch lift to tie the match. It was Weatherbee hitting the lift again and then a 3-pointer of his own to build a 10-4 lead. Then Utah came storming back with another 3-pointer. But Tait would hold on for the 11-7 win.

Cornejo #837
I joined this match in progress with Joe Cornejo leading, 4-2. In the early part of the second period Joe was trying to stay busy but his opponent from Idaho earned the 1-point takedown. Breaks in the action occurred at 1.33, at 1.08, at 0.45, and at 0.38 before the Idaho coaches getting what they were screaming for as Joe was determined to be passive. At 0.14 left the Idahoan did manage to score 1-point on a hand-to-hand. Both wrestlers were “gassed” as overtime started. Neither wrestler was willing to commit too much. Finally, with 1.46 left in the 3-minute overtime, Joe managed a 2-point takedown.

Erisman #902
This match had Neil Erisman facing a wrestler from Idaho. Saying that these wrestlers were evenly matched might be an understatement. The first period ended with the score 5-5. The local contingent is not accustom to seeing Neil give up points, let alone points in bunches. With 1.10 left in the match, Neil was trailing by a count of 6-11. Neil was frantically looking to score and did on a driving double leg that led the combatants out-of-bounds. Neil was awarded three points for the move and his opponent had the wind knocked out of him. The score was 9-11 as the action restarted in the center circle. With about 20 seconds to go, Neil trapped the arm and scored on the gut wrench. (here we go again, I will try to explain the next events) As Neil broke 90 with his opponent’s shoulders, the referee began the count. The ref counted 5 and signaled the one additional. Neil seeing this let his opponent back to his belly and tilted him again during which, the Idahoan managed a 2-point reversal and the wrestlers scrambling as the referee blew the whistle with 0.07 in the match. We have a conference. We have confusion! The result … after the mat referee signaled his one hold down point, both the mat judge and the mat chairman “white paddled” the hold down. This means that the point was not confirmed and then the Idaho wrestler did score the reversal with exposure. This meant Neil was still trailing by 2, 11-13, but the wrestlers were on their feet. In the remaining seven seconds, Neil did manage a 2-point takedown but his opponent also scored an exposure. Final score, 13-15.

Wiscombe #1020
Justin Wiscombe needed a victory in this bout to keep his tournament hopes alive. But against a foe from Minnesota, he would find the road a rough one. Justin did score the first takedown but it was all Minnesota from there on out. Wiscombe loses, 1-11.

Cisper #1048
Finding himself also in need of a victory was Neil Cisper. His foe from Ohio was not in an accommodating mood. Neil loses by the score of 0-11.

Marrs #1070
Gaining his second victory in the tourney is Jacob Marrs. He handled his opponent from Ohio with relative ease, securing a 8-1 win.

Wall #1232
Needing a win to stay alive is Isaac Wall and his match against a foe from Washington. Unfortunately he wouldn’t get it. Isaac loses by a 0-11 count.

Bingham #1289
Sometimes, it is difficult to say, but our wrestlers simply get “out-classed.” I would expect Aaron Bingham to admit that very fact in this match with Angel Escebedo of Indiana. He suffers a first-minute pin but Aaron (that’s my mullet) Bingham survives to fight another day.

Nothern #1291
He fought valiantly but Nick Nothern was knocked out the tourney suffering a 0-3 loss at the hands of a wrestler from the Showme state.

Cornejo #1364
Returning a bit to customary form was Joe Cornejo in this bout against Missouri. Joe appeared a bit more lively in this 9-2 win.

Grater #1401
Not showing any signs of the injury that plagued his showing in Greco, Danny Grater put together a tech fall win over an opponent from PA. Grater wins, 10-0.

Anderson #1438
Coming from behind for wins, seems to be a trademark of Dave Anderson. In this match against a lad from Ohio, Dave would find himself trailing 0-4. It should come as no surprise that Dave reversed the Buckeye and secured the fall at 1.11.

Fitzgerald #1488
“Mr. Freight Train” or Conor Fitzgerald for those of you out of the loop, made an appearance in this match against a foe from Missouri. Conor hits his nasty double-leg and a few trapped arms to secure the tech fall, 10-0, with 1.56 in the first.

Marrs #1518
Sometimes, the trip from the penthouse to the outhouse can be very short. That was the case as Jacob Marrs faced a wrestler from North Carolina. Jacob was working hard and earned a 6-2 lead in the first. He built that lead to 8-3, midway through the second. Then Jacob was working for another takedown when he was “caught” in the spladdle. When applied correctly, the “Schalles cradle” is a match ender. Unfortunately North Carolina knows its correct application.

Cordts #1588
A nifty fireman's carry put Tyler Cordt behind 0-4. Tyler did fight off his back but the California opponent turned to the farside cradle. Tyler lost by tech fall, 0-10 at 1.26.

Freeman #145
Russ Freeman started his campaign in freestyle with a close, 5-2 win. Early, both wrestlers scored a 1-point takedown but Russ managed a sweet reversal with exposure for 2. Back to their feet Russ scored a takedown to close out the period. In the next frame, Freeman scored again, from a front headlock to a go behind. Russ continued to attack but did give up a takedown as the bout ended.

Stephens #182
It was A.J. Stephens turn and his turn did not take too long. A.J. scored a first period tech fall over Missouri.

Flynn #222
The ball kept rolling as Sean Flynn was pitted against a foe from Florida. Sean scored the first and the only takedown of the match as he used a series of 2+1 guts to gain the grand superiority win, 10-0, with 0.32 seconds in the first.

Isenberg #235
It was a valiant effort but Aldon Isenberg would suffer a loss at the hands of Pennsylvania. The wrestler from PA used a variety of maneuvers to score the 0-10 tech fall in the 2nd period.

Bailes #321
Having been a Greco All-American, hopes were high as Matt Bailes was next up against a California wrestler. It looked as though Matt was still asleep as his opponent was in deep on a double leg. Matt locked up the crotch lift and when the dust had settled, Matt was credited with 2 but gave up 3. On their feet Matt scored a two-point takedown. On their feet again it was the Golden Bear that scored a beautiful firemans’. The score at the end of the period was 4-6. The whistle sounded again Matt allowed a deep shot and scored on the crotch lift but the time was held in peril and was trailing 6-10. There was 1.10 left in the bout and Matt needed to score with out giving up more points than he gained. Cali was charged with passivity but did not budge on attempts to turn him. With 0.10 seconds left Matt needed something big … and it came in the way of a head-and-arm with a hold down. As the clock hit zero the referee hit his five count. Matt had tied it up. In overtime, again the Californian was in deep but Matt scored 2-points on a monkey roll.

Hardy #396
Disappointed in his Greco performance, Jesse Hardy started this session against a foe from Washington. Jesse used a takedown and tilt, then another takedown and tilt and a tilt to take the 7-0 lead after one. The second had just started when Jesse hit a 3-point head-and-arm. Hardy wins by technical fall with 1.19 left in the match.

Starr #446
Minnesota provided the challenge for Mark Starr. Mark has done a good job during the week in accepting the challenges and so he did earning a 2nd period tech fall.

Hansen #558
Wanting to equip himself better in Freestyle, Paul Hansen was matched against a Virginia wrestler. Hansen scored first on a takedown but later gave one up. Again it was a takedown and Hansen was trying hard for a turn but gave up the reversal. The period ended, 2-2. In the second the Cavalier scored 2+1 before they were put back to their feet. Paulie scored the single-point takedown but fell victim to a two-point reversal. Hansen loses, 3-7.

Fisher #628
This report on this match will take longer to type up than the bout lasted. Blake Fisher scored a fall in 10 short seconds. Blake hit an obviously sweet cross-knee pick, putting a Colorado kid on his back.

Koehn #681
A California foe scored 3 quick points on Derek Koehn. But Derek came back scoring 3 of his own. Unfortunately, they would be the last points Koehn would score. He lost by a 3-14 tech fall in the second period.

Freeman #735
After a great scramble with counters following counters, Russ Freeman did catch a wrestler from Idaho for a 3-point lead. Russ would score again countering a shot with the double underhook, Russ ripped the Spud to his back 2+1. The Idahoan was successful on one attempt as the period ended. Leading 6-1, Russ scored 3 additional single pointers for the 9-1 win.

Eck #855
Indiana provided the next wrestler for Peter Eck. Eck made quick work of the Hoosier in 12-2 tech fall at 1.42 in the second.

Fisher #1052
Next on the mat, Brent Fisher, wrestled a foe from Iowa. Brent was hoping to use the showcase stage of Mat 1 to shine. However, he found the lights or more precisely, the Iowan too tough. Fisher fell by a fall late in the first period.

Elliott #1093
New York was the state that provided the foe for Scott Elliott. Scott gave up two, single-point takedown in the first. In the second, Scott fell victim to the New Yorkers’ 3+1 and gave up a fleeing point before he gained a 1-point reversal. Elliott loses by decision, 1-8.

Schields #1160
A snap-and-spin followed by a 2-point tilt were the first points for Brett Schields in his match against Illinois. And he used the snap again to take a 4-0 lead. Brett found himself trailing after getting tossed and tilted. With the score 4-5 Illinois scored again after a 1-pointer. In the second, the Illini was scoring quickly before securing the fall against Schields.

Eck #1159
After exchanging early takedowns, Peter Eck scored 2-points on a crotch lift. His opponent from Colorado scored a reversal and a 2-point tilt. Eck loses by a 3-5 decision.

Berscheidt #1229
Aaron Berscheidt would give up the early takedown in his match with Montana. The wrestler from MT would go on to earn a 2-point gut, a crotch lift, and two more takedowns. Aaron scored 1-point on a reversal. The final results were a 1-7 loss.

Edison #1281
Sometimes, your opponent travels a bit further than you do, as Jarrett Edison faced an opponent from Puerto Rico and it was the Puerto Rican that took the early lead, 0-1. But Jarrett would come storming back earning a first period tech fall.

Juby #1311
Oregon was the competitor for Alex Juby in this bout. After being charged with passivity, Alex fell behind when the Oregonian scored a 2-point gut. Back of their feet, Juby forged ahead using a nice firemans’ carry to score 3+1. The mat official called for a fall, but did not receive confirmation from the judge as time ran out in the period, with Juby leading 4-2. Early in the second period, Alex was trying to work but was caught and pinned by the head-and-arm.

Furches #1369
This was a solid win for Nathan Furches against an opponent from Indiana. Nathan scored a 6-0 decision.

Altman #1389
As was the case last year, this year again, the target is squarely on the chest of Donny Altman. But Donny handled the challenge of the foe from Pennsylvania. Donny did take the full 4-minutes but he did earn the tech fall, 11-1.

Ely #1443
Aaron Ely remained undefeated in this competition but it would not be easy against a wrestler from Colorado. Aaron did hit a very sweet ankle pick in route to a 4-1 win.

Fisher #1451
I’ve watched Blake Fisher well enough to know that he has a great, cross-knee pick. It was too bad that California was not privileged to that information. Blake used it to score 3 separate times and earned a 7-1 decision.

Fisher #1481
On the same mat as his brother had wrestled, next up we have, Brent Fisher also facing California. Although he had a bit more trouble, a win … is still a win. Brent secures the 8-4 decision.

Elliott #1526
This bout, Scott Elliott won by a convincing tech fall with 1.04 remaining in the match.

Bailes #1601
Being knocked out earlier than expected, Matt Bailes loses to a wrestler from Minnesota. The only points Matt managed were on an early front headlock for 3. He losses by tech fall, 3-13.

Edison #1654
Ohio was the challenge for Jarrett Edison. After a scoreless first period, the Ohioan was the first to lock in the clinch. And it was Jarrett to score from the position. With 0.57 left, Edison allowed the tying point. I saw an overtime clinch if Jarrett’s future but a scramble with 12 seconds left took place. The results were, 2 points for Jarrett, 3 points for his opponent. Jarrett suffers his first loss in this tournament.

Altman #1729
Remaining undefeated is Donny Altman. Donny faced an opponent from Iowa and the Iowan was a test. Donny never trailed in this bout building a 7-0 lead. And Donny did hold on as the final score was 7-4.

Fisher #1781
Evidently Idaho had not scouted Blake Fisher because, Mr. Cross Kneepick made a return visit. Blake scored three times using the knee pick, once with exposure, and when the Spud kept his legs back, Blake scored twice on the snap-and-spin. Blake Fisher wins, 6-0.

Hardy #1912
An all too familiar foe was next up for Jesse Hardy as he faced a wrestler from Oklahoma. Having faced the Sooner at the duals and at the Southern Plains, they also knew what to avoid. However, having the knowledge and having the execution are often two different items. The tall lanky Sooner, scored on a couple of beautiful double legs that drove Jesse out-of-bounds on his back. The shorter and powerful Jesse, hit an explosive head-and-arm. When the dust cleared, Jesse had lost, 6-13.

Edison #1936
Getting back on the offensive and back on the winning track was the plan for Jarrett Edison. And the plan worked to perfection. Jarrett earned a tech fall over his opponent, 10-0.

Altman #1950
Could Donny Altman keep his perfect record for 2004 Fargo in tact? That was the question … the answer … you bet! Altman scores the tech fall in 70 seconds.

Metzler #1481
Seth Metzler stayed on the winning course with a tech fall. After the first part of the bout, where both wrestlers were being extremely cautious, Metzler took control after earning a passivity call on his opponent. A few lifts and throws later and it was a 12-1 win for Seth.

Shumate #1483
Sometimes it’s hard not to be boring in my reports but sometimes that is dependant on the bout. Nick Shumate used a head-and-arm, followed by a head-and-arm, followed by a head-and-arm with a hold down to gain the 10-0 tech fall in 1.02.

Baldridge #1534
… and some matches are just heartbreakers! Josh Baldridge showed a whole lot of desire in this bout against a foe from Utah. The first period showed the Utah lad build a substantial, 2-9 lead as it appeared Josh was just a half-a-second slow. In the intermission, Josh must have found his groove. He used a takedown and turn to inch closer and he climbed back into the match with a 2-point high gut. The score was 6-9 and the wrestlers were back on their feet. Baldridge scored a 1-point takedown and a 2-point turn to tie the match. Josh was grinding hard and took the lead on a 1-point, hand-to-hand gut. Baldridge was expending a lot of energy and gave up a takedown 20 seconds to go. Back of their feet it again, the Utah wrestler scoring the 1-point takedown. A second loss for Baldridge but he did fight like a champion.

Bailes #1797
Having one the match to insure his All-American status, perhaps Matt Bailes had a bit of a letdown in his next bout. That, coupled with the fact he was wrestling the eventual champ of the bracket, and Matt lost by technical fall in 1.32.

Starr #1803
Mark Starr had a tough draw in this match against a foe from Illinois. The opponent had an excellent arm throw and Mark had no defense for it. Starr lost by tech fall, 5-16.

Altman #1806
At this point in the tourney there are never any easy matches. But Donny Altman completely destroyed an opponent from New Jersey. The match began with each wrestler trying to see what the other would offer. A scramble for position caused the wrestlers to go out of bounds. There were no points scored but Donny had the superior starting position in the center circle. Donny lifted the Jersey boy three times and scored a variety of points. Then it was one more lift and as we have become accustom, it was over-the-top for a five-point throw. Altman wins, 11-0.

Ely #1808
Pennsylvania provided the test the Aaron Ely. Though he battled the entire bout Aaron could never score. It was a 0-6 decision for PA.

Edison #1835
This match was underway when I joined it with Jarrett Edison ahead of Deron Winn from Missouri, the score was 6-0. Winn is an accomplished wrestler and a past Triple Crown winner. Winn began to climb back into the match scoring a 3-point toss and a 2-point tilt. Jarrett was fighting to keep his lead and at 0.18 left was charged with passivity. With a great defense, Jarrett warded off the attempts to turn him. With 4 seconds to go and Winn completely out-of-position, Edison stepped over and looked to have Winn pinned. But the referee indicated the match was over and Jarrett the winner.

Eck #1836
This match was fairly close in the beginning, as Peter Eck matched his skills against a wrestler from Oklahoma. The Sooner scored first on a 1-point takedown and a 2-point trapped arm gut. Eck scored on a 3-point toss but those would be the last points Peter would score. The Sooner went on to control the match. Eck loses by the count of 3-15.


As sometimes happens in Freestyle and Greco wrestling a wrestler that advances to the finals might get the spot over an opponent who defeated him. The Kansas Cadets were on both ends of this outcome as the finals matches were set. Larry Perez advances to the finals, having lost to Fred Santaite who was in the 3rd place match. And Deron Winn advances to the finals even with a loss to Jarrett Edison.

84 lbs. Championship Match
This match saw Nathan Furches going against his opponent, Eric Grajales of Florida. The whistle started the action and it looked like it was going to be a battle. Nathan was working hard to get control and Grajales was charged with passivity. Furches capitalized on the advantage and scored on a 1-point hand-to-hand exposure. Back on their feet, Grajales scored on a 2-point takedown to end the period. In the second period, it would be all Grajales as he scored in a variety of ways. Furches loses by tech fall, 1-11. Although he had to be disappointed in his performance, Nathan Furches wrestled well, earning All-American status.

91 lbs. Championship Match
Jake Quinten from Pennsylvania was on the other side of the bracket from Donny Altman. Donny is a defending National Champion in Greco and now, Donny Altman is a repeating National Champion. In dramatic fashion, Donny scored 3-points on a head-and-arm and the wrestlers went out-of-bounds. A brief conference and Donny was awarded an additional point as Quinten committed a leg foul. There were 15 seconds gone in the match and as the whistle blew Donny lifted a tossed and again lifted and tossed his opponent. Donny earned 3-points on each toss. The match lasted a total of 38 seconds. Donny Altman is a National Champion!

98 lbs. 5th Place Match
Aaron Ely would wrestle in this bout against Anthony Jorge from Florida. The match started with a great flurry. A slip throw by Jorge put Ely on top. Aaron pulled out an arm bar and walked over Jorge’s head for a 2-point tilt. Another flurry ended the first period with Aaron ahead, 2-0. With 1.14 left in the match, Aaron was charged with passivity. With 1.03 left in the match, it was over. Jorge expertly gutted Aaron and arched to the top of his head. This pressed Ely’s shoulders to the mat. Again, it may not of been the way he would have chosen to end the tourney but Aaron Ely is an All-American nonetheless.

105 lbs. Championship Match
In this match we saw Larry Perez pitted against Zachary Sanders of Minnesota. In the early going, it was a real battle for position but Perez was charged with passivity. Sanders capitalized and gutted Larry for two-points at the period ended. Larry was trying frantically to penetrate Sanders defense. He milked him down in a front headlock but could not score any points. The second period started with both wrestlers still battling each others position. Again, Larry was charged with passivity and Sanders scored two on a gut. Back on their feet, they continued to battle, Sanders holding on to the 2-on-1 and Larry trying to snap him down into the front headlock. The final scoring in the match was Sanders scoring 3-points on a toss. The final score was 0-7 a victory for Sanders but Larry Perez was still an All-American.

140 lbs. 5th Place Match
Peter Eck would do battle with Vince Ramos from Illinois. The bout looked to tight early as an early 3-point toss by Eck was countered by Ramos’s reversal with exposure. Peter did manage another takedown and a 2-point gut to close out the period. Ramos countered the head-and-arm for 1 and scored again on a 1-point takedown. Peter closed the match out with great defense. Peter Eck finishes fifth in this tournament which means he is an All-American.

152 lbs. 5th Place Match
Oregon provided Zach Geisen who provided the competitor for Matt Bailes. Matt was coming off of a lack luster performance in his last bout but he would shine in this one. Matt turned a fairly close bout into a fall at 1.14 in the second. Matt Bailes is an All-American, finishing in 5th place.

171 lbs. Consolation Match
Jarrett Edison was perhaps a bit distracted in this bout against John Weakley of Illinois. Weakley turned a first period takedown into a fall at 1.37. Jarrett with his fourth place finish earns All-American status but one has to wonder … what could have been, as the man he defeated in an earlier bout was the champion.

275 lbs. 5th Place Match
Mark Starr faced Kurt Klimek from California. Mark battled hard and the score was 2-3 before Klimek earned the fall at 0.48 in the first. Regardless, Mark Starr is an All-American.

Furches #1677
As is often times the case, with 23 mats and over 35 Kansas wrestlers still alive, two matches were in progress at the same time. This was the case as Nathan Furches and Donny Altman would both be in action. Nathan was facing an opponent from Minnesota and it was the Gopher scoring first on a 1-point takedown and a 2-point turn. It looked like Furches may be in trouble but the action that followed indicated the Nathan was just slow to wake up. With the Gopher on top, it was Nathan scoring on the reversal with exposure and a 2-point gut to take a 4-3 lead. Furches went on to score 9 more points on a series of takedowns and turns. Furches remains undefeated, winning by tech fall.

Altman #1679
Donny Altman would be in the spotlight of the elevated stage and mat #1. Perhaps Donny was having a bit of trouble adjusting to the altitude as he was trailing a foe from Nebraska, 0-5. As the second frame started the Husker built on his lead, scoring a 1-point takedown and a 1-point, hand-to-hand. At this point things looked bleak but Donny was about to make a transformation. I didn’t see it happen but clearly it did. Like Popeye, Donny said, “that’s alls I can stands, I can’t stands no more,” as he reached in his singlet an opened a can of … spinach. (once again, I find myself trying to relate this tale at 1 a.m. but I will try the best I can to describe the action) Donny, on bottom and trailing by a score of 0-7, reversed the position and scored on a 2-point gut. Then Donny lifted the Husker, hit a back arch for 5+1, then hit a turn for 2 and gained 2 more on the Huskers leg foul. If you are keeping score, I hope that adds up to Donny being in the lead, 13-9. While he was at it, he gained 2 more on a gut. The Nebraskan did manage a 1-point takedown but that was not enough to gain the win nor to wipe the ear-to-ear grin off of Donny’s face. Final score, 15-10.

Perez #1684
Still out of breath from Donny’s match, Larry Perez would take his turn on Mat #1. Facing an opponent from Oklahoma, this match was over quickly. Larry scored on his patented duck under and 2 more points on a gut. The Sooner would have been wise to stay on the mat because Perez again hit a duck. Larry gave the Sooner a flying lesson as Perez scored his own 5+1, back arch throw. Then Larry went to the reverse lift, picked his opponent up, and tossed him again. Wow … a dramatic tech fall in under a minute.

Eck #1716
How could Peter Eck possibly live up to the buzz created by the last few matches? I joined his match in progress with Peter ahead, 5-1. There was less than a minute remaining but Eck was not going to coast out. I don’t know if there are records kept but this class of 2004 Kansas Cadets seem to have a knack for the 5-pointer. Add one more … Peter Eck hit his opponent with a 5 of his own. Eck wins, going away, 10-2.

Bailes #1725
This match would be a departure from the recent Cadet matches. In this bout, Matt Bailes was charged with passivity, which put his opponent from Pennsylvania in the superior position. Matt’s defense was rock-solid and the first period ended scoreless. Bailes was the first to lock as the second frame opened in the clinch. PA locked and the battle ensued. While each fought to maintain their position while breaking the others, a minute had nearly expired. If Matt did not score in that minute, he would lose a point, being the first to lock. Suddenly, Bailes shifted his weight and scored the 1-point takedown. Then a lift and exposure scored 3 more. Ahead 4-0 Matt did give up two, single point takedowns.

Ramirez #2
In a sign that the Juniors might be facing a tough session, Josh Ramirez found little to enjoy in his first match of the day.  The first indication was the five-point throw in which Ramirez participated ... on the receiving end.  After a couple of trapped-arm guts and back exposures, the match came to a quick 0-11 end.

Elliott #10
This match was practically over before I settled in to a good note taking position. Tim Elliott was paired with a wrestler from Idaho. The spud offered little resistance as he was quickly mashed by Elliott’s head-and-arm. Tim wins by pin in 0.46 seconds.

Wall #24
Some fear it, while some desire it, but the center mat at the Fargodome nearly always invokes a special response for those few who get assigned to this showcase mat.  Isaac Wall acquitted himself well on the mat, although he ultimately lost his match.  At the midpoint of the highly charged and fast-paced bout, following momentum swings both ways, the score was a very close 10-11.  However, 38 seconds into the second period, Wall was caught on his back for a fall.

Bloodgood #68
The first round match for Cory Bloodgood would end up being a tough one as he faced an opponent from Minnesota. Cory did put up a valiant fight but did not dent the scoreboard. Bloodgood loses by tech fall.

Baker #77
Keaton Baker took a quick lead in the match, but fell behind 6-9 shortly before the end of the first period on a series of high gut turns.  Trailing by two points with six seconds remaining in the match, Baker attempted a desperation move to turn his opponent, getting caught in the attempt and losing a meaningless two points for a final score of 9-13.

Baldridge #109
Next up was Josh Baldridge and his match against a Georgian. Josh opened the scoring by effectively countering the Georgians throw attempt scoring 2-points on the takedown. Then Josh scored two more with a high gut wrench. After they regained their feet it was the Georgians turn as he scored 3+1 on the head-and-arm. The score of the match was 4-4 after little more than 30 seconds was off the clock. The pace of the scoring continued as Josh scored 3+1 plus earned two points for his opponents leg foul. A gut wrench earned 2 and an arm throw scored 3 as Baldridge wins by tech fall with 0.54 in the first.

Cornejo #177
Joe Cornejo was an All-American last year in the Cadet division but this year Cornejo moves up to the Juniors. His opponent was from Michigan but he offered little opposition. Joe earned a quick tech fall with 1.28 remaining in the first.

Grater #213
We traveled to the State of Washington for Danny Grater’s first round foe. Grater tech falled his opponent in very quick order, taking only 0.53 seconds to close out the match.

Anderson #230
This bout featured several head & arms, some successful and other less so.  Dave Anderson was caught in the first throw, but rolled thru to earn two points, keeping the match close at 3-2.  Anderson was not able to roll thru the next successful head & arm, however, ending the first period behind 4-7.  After his opponent scored on another throw in the second period, increasing Anderson's deficit to 4-11, Dave decided to try his own throw.  Unfortunately, his two attempts were unsuccessful, resulting only in his giving up two final takedowns, for a final score of 4-13.

Miller #241
Pennsylvania offered a very stern challenge for Mike Miller and his first round match. Mike was caught in a head-and-arm and succumbed to the fall at 2.07.

Keane #254
In his first round match, Patrick Keane was compete against a wrestler from Florida. Keane went for the early throw but slipped, giving with opponent to upper position. The Floridian capitalized, scoring on a 2-point gut wrench that took the action out-of-bounds. The restart had the same results as Patrick was trailing 0-4. Florida was charged with passivity late in the first period and Keane quickly on his own 2-point gut. The Floridian seemed content to score off of Keane’s attempts earning two 1-point takedowns. Keane loses by a 2-6 decision.

Pietrzyk #339
Next, it was Sean Pietrzyk’s turn. Illinois was the competition. Sean found hard but lost this match by a score of 0-10.

Shumate #406
Wrestling at 98-pounds for Kansas was Nick Shumate. His opponent was from Connecticut. Scoring came quick for Nick as he opened with a 5-point throw and earned 2 more on a gut that took the action out-of-bounds. The whistle blew and Shumate scored again earning 2+1 on a high gut. Shumate wins by tech fall with 1.46 left in the first.

Grater #491
Danny Grater would face a tough opponent from Montana in his second round match. After an early battle, Montana was charged with passivity. Grater capitalized on the position scoring 2-points on a high gut. Back on their feet they battled again before Danny scored on a duck under to close out the period. Danny seemed to have a bit of an injury as they broke for their 30-second intermission. The second started with the Montana wrestler scoring on a 3-point throw and he quickly lifted Danny for a 3+1 toss that took them out-of-bounds and under the mat judges table. Danny earned his feet after the restart where he scored a 1-point takedown and a 1-point gut. The score was 5-7 with 0.44 seconds remaining. Grater desperately tried to score but couldn’t.

Session #2 of Juniors

Shumate #645
Beginning the second session of competition, Nick Shumate would face a tough challenge in Pennsylvania’s Joe Weygand. Nick seemed to be capable of facing that challenge as he scored early on a 3-point toss. Weygand would come back with a 1-point takedown and a 1-point gut. Weygand tied the match with another 1-point takedown to close out the first period. Shumate looked to be “fired up” and Weygand looked to be out of condition during the intermission. The whistle blew and it was Nick Shumate scoring a 2-pointer that went out-of-bounds. Nick hustled back with intensity in his eyes and Weygand did not get up. After the two-minute injury clock had expired Nick was declared the winner. Weygand was on the mat for several minutes and had to be carted off. I will report on his condition later.

Wall #703
Isaac Wall would make fairly quick work of his competition from Maryland. Isaac used the whizzer to expose the Terrapin for the first two-points and would later score a 3+1. Wall would finish his opponent, not letting the Terrapin off of his back (pun intended).

Knox #749
I joined this bout at the start of the second period, with Charles "Toast" Knox having a 4-0 over a foe from California. Toast would open up the lead scoring three, 1-point takedowns. With less than a minute to go in the match, the “left-coaster” scored on a 3-point toss and on a 2-point reverse gut. Knox would win by a 7-5 decision.

Ellison #788
The next bout I covered was Aaron Ellison and an opponent from Florida. This match was a barn-burner as Ellison was attempting to use, 1 and 2 pointers, to overcome the Floridians 3-point head-and-arms. The Gator would score on five, 3-point head-and-arms and a 1-pointer. Ellison did manage 10 points of his own but lost the match by decision, 10-16.

Orozco #814
Iowa would provide the competition for Simon Orozco in this bout. The Iowan scored first as Simon was penalized for fleeing under attack. The Iowan attempted a lift but Simon kept his belly down and covered the Iowan for 2-points as they went out-of-bounds. Back to their feet the Iowan hit a 3-pointer to take the 2-4 lead. Simon battled back scoring a single on a takedown and 2 on a trapped arm gut. The score was 5-4 as the period came to an end. The next point was to the Iowan but Simon was charged with a leg foul. Behind 5-7 Orozco tried to come back but came up one-point short.

Wall #1045
Pennsylvania provided the next opponent for Isaac Wall. PA opened the scoring with a 3-point head-and-arm. But Wall battled back. Isaac used his own H/A for 3+1 and gained 2 more as his opponent committed a leg foul. 6-3 would be the score at the end of the first. Pennsylvania would surge back ahead using the H/A to score a 3+1. Isaac did a great job of fighting off his back to avoid the pin but ended up losing the match by a score of 7-11.

Bingham #1107
Next up for the Kansas faithful was Aaron (that’s my mullet) Bingham. He was matched a home stater from North Dakota. Bingham thanked his opponent for his hospitality and won the match by tech fall, 13-3.

Cornejo #1168
The Hoosier State was the foe for Joe Cornejo in this bout that I joined at the start of the second period. Joe was trailing by the score of 4-5. Joe was attempting to tie the Hoosier up and he gained a point as the Hoosier fled under attack. The score was tied at 5’s. But as is the case in Greco matches, the tide can change in a hurry. As Joe reached to tie the Hoosier up again, the Hoosier hit a beautiful duck under and with his belly to Joe’s back, hit an impressive 5+1 point throw and then lifted Joe for another 3-pointer. Back on their feet the lad from Indiana again hit his duck under for the 1-point takedown and a loss for Joe by tech fall.

Elliott #
Tim Elliott would match his skills against a wrestler from Washington. Elliott would look very impressive, in spite of a nagging rib injury, as he opened up a 17-5 lead before he pinned his foe.

Furches #8
The honor of wrestling in the first match for Kansas this year fell to Nathan Furches. Although Furches got off to a quick start, scoring the first two takedowns to take a quick 2-0 lead, he was unable to score again in regulation. Although he lead the match 2-1 at the end of the second period, the rules require the victor to score at least three points; therefore, the match went into overtime. Starting from the clinch position, Nathan secured his lock first (and a very advantageous lock it was – look in the photo gallery to see a shot of it), and quickly dropped his opponent directly to his back to secure the 5-1 victory.

Ely #51
This match up saw Aaron Ely facing a foe from Connecticut. The opening whistle saw Ely score on an arm drag and then turned his opponent with a trapped arm gut, scoring two for the turn and earned an additional point for holding-in-peril. The action went out of bounds. Aaron was on top when the action continued and he quickly closed out the match with a series of 2+1 trapped arm gut, the last he held for the fall.

Perez #65
Larry Perez began his quest for a National title earning a quick tech fall over a competitor from Michigan. Perez scored on a takedown, a gut wrench, a trapped arm gut, and a reverse lift and throw.

Hudgins #92
Although this was not a victory for Kyle Hudgins, there were some positives that came out of the match. In the first period, trailing 0-4, Hudgins gave up two points in literally the last couple of seconds. Faced with a similar situation in the second period, when he trailed by nine points with ten seconds remaining, and with a determined opponent on top, Hudgins refused to allow the additional points. Wrestling strictly for pride at that point, he successfully avoided the technical fall.

Noblet #111
Next, was first year Cadet, Matt Noblet. One might worry that a newcomer to Fargo might have a few first match jitters. But there were no signs of any, as Matt earned a first-period tech fall over a wrestler from North Dakota.

Baumfalk #153
Jonathan Baumfalk faced an opponent from New York in his first round match. Jonathan was behind early as he fell victim to the head-and-arm, a hold in peril, and a 1-point gut as the first period ended. The New Yorker extended his lead to 6 before Baumfalk scored. And the final score was 1-6.

Elliott #212
Scott Elliott suffered a loss in his first round match. Scott appeared a bit out of his element as an opponent from Washington earned a tech fall in the second-period.

Stephens #241
The State of Missouri provided the competition for A.J. Stephens. A.J. found this to be a stern test as he fell to the Showme by a 2nd-period, 0-12, tech fall.

Flynn 267
This match did not get off to a good start for Sean Flynn, as he found himself being thrown to his back by a head & arm. Flynn aggressively battled from the par terre position, returning to his feet without sacrificing any further points, whereupon he proceeded to control the remainder of the first period. He first tied the score 3-3 with a hip toss, then scored again when his attempt at a head & arm was blocked. Instead of giving up position, or bailing out, he adjusted to re-counter, scoring 2+1 points. In the second period, Flynn gave up one point when he was caught for a takedown, but held on for the 6-4 victory, even when forced to wrestle the last 20 seconds from the par terre position.

Eck #286
We now come to a newcomer to Fargo, Peter Eck, to reverse the recent losing trend. Peter faced an Illinois wrestler as the opening whistle blew. Eck quickly disposed of the challenge earning a tech fall at 0.31 in the first-period. Peter used a body lock to score a couple of takedowns and the high gut wrench to score a couple of turns.

Hentzen #325
Again, Illinois was the provider of competition for Zach Hentzen in his opening bout. Zach took the early 3-0 lead by using the head-and-arm. Back on their feet to start the 2nd, Hentzen lost the lead, giving up a 3+1 lateral. Zach next lost a point as he was dinged for fleeing. The Illini scored again on a 2-point gut. Hentzen loses this match, 3-7.

Bailes #335
Matthew Bailes got off to a good start in the tournament, effectively scoring off of his opponent’s mistakes. First came one point as a result of a successful counter to an attempted arm throw. Next, Bailes earned 3+1 points when he countered a head & arm, throwing his opponent to his back. After earning the additional back point, he continued to hold his opponent on his back until he secured the fall with :12 remaining in the first period.

Hazard #348
Next, it was Cody Hazard’s turn. Michigan was the competition. Cody did fight till the second-period before he would lose by fall.

Edison #406
At 171-pounds Kansas offered Jarrett Edison while Florida provided the opposition. This match was one of the closest of the first round. As is sometimes the case this match was a defensive battle. Jarrett took the 1st-period scoring a 1-point takedown and a 1-point turn. In the second, Florida would take the lead, scoring 3-points on a lateral drop. On their feet, the lad from the Sunshine State seemed content but perhaps was a bit too cautious. With 0.15 we was charged with passivity. Edison was on top and behind by one. The clock was counting down and with 4 seconds to go, Jarrett scored 2-points on a high gut wrench. Edison wins, 4-3.

Hardy #435
Patience was the keyword in this match, as Jesse Hardy continued to look for his opening. Although falling behind 0-1 in the first period, he eventually found the head & arm that he wanted, and used it to secure the fall :32 into the second period.

Starr #464
It was Mark Starr who faced an Iowan in this next bout. Mark expertly countered the Iowans’ attempt at a lateral, scoring 3-points. Back on their feet the Iowan would try again but Mark still remembered the counter. This time, he worked for the fall.

Perez #482
Beginning the second round of competition, Larry Perez was planning on maintaining a clean record. And he did. However, his opponent from Pennsylvania would put up a challenge. Perez squeaks by with a 4-2 decision.

Isenberg #673
For Aldon Isenberg, a wrestler from New York would offer a stern challenge. Aldon scored early using a 1-point takedown and a nice lateral for 3 to take the advantage, 4-0. The New Yorker would battle back to tie the match as he scored a 3+1 on a head-and-arm. Aldon quickly scored 2-points on the reversal to close out the period. In the second, it was all Isenberg as he won the match by a score of 11-4.

Garcia #724
Up at 145-pounds it was Cole Garcia facing competition from Oklahoma. Cole did not show much neighborly hospitality as he whooped the Sooner with a first period tech fall.

Furches #732
In his second match of the tournament, Nathan Furches again got to experience a clinch start. After a scoreless first period, Furches started the second period in a clinch, although this time he locked up second. The results were the same, however, as he used the position to take his opponent directly to his back, thereby taking a 3-0 lead. Although he subsequently gave up a takedown, he hung on to take the 3-1 victory.

Altman #742
We turn to Donny Altman for our next wrestler and we turn to Missouri for his competition. Donny opened the scoring with a 3-point head-and-arm. Donny went for a quick lift and threw the Showme, over the top, for a beautiful 5-pointer, scoring an additional 1-point for appreciation. (the 5+1 throw is the ultimate in Greco and Freestyle, to gain the 5+1, the throw must be made with the feet passing over the head or as they say, with great amplitude, the throw should be finished with a deep back arching by the thrower) Donny then scored 3 more points on a lift and throw. Donny wins, 12-0.

Caldwell #761
Defending the gut wrench proved to be Tyler Caldwell’s undoing in this match. After finding himself in the bottom position following a slipped throw, Caldwell gave up the first two points to a gut. After giving up a takedown, Caldwell trailed 0-3 at the end of the first half. In the second half, he again went down, this time due to a passivity call, where he gave up another two point gut wrench. Although he then performed a terrific defense to a reverse lift, getting back to his feet in the process, he was unable to score on his opponent, losing by a final 0-5.

Isenberg #911
What a comeback for Alden Isenberg in the match!  Unfortunately, it ended up being just a little short.  Isenberg did not get off to a good start, going down 0-7.  However, he showed no sign of giving up, as he began to whittle away his opponent’s lead.  The start of the comeback came late in the first period, as he countered his opponent’s gut wrench, exposing his back for five seconds to earn three points.  Going into the second period with a 3-7 deficit, Isenberg hit a vicious head & arm, putting his opponent on his back and earning 3+1 points, thereby tying the match.  In a move that Isenberg later conceded was ill-timed, he attempted one last head & arm with only three seconds remaining in regulation.  When his opponent slipped the headlock, catching Isenberg for the takedown, the match ended in a tough 7-8 decision.

Bailes #974
Matt Bailes stayed on the winning track with a quick and dramatic pin of an opponent from Washington. Matt used a lateral throw to take the opponent to his back. After a few pounces on the chest, the Apple was sauce. Matt wins by fall at 0.20 in the first.

Edison #1042
Washington provided the competitor for Jarrett Edison in his next match. Jarrett again was very cautious in this bout. In the first period, neither competitor could crack the scoreboard. A scoreless first-period leads the competitors to the “clinch.” Edison locked first and as the critical first minute was winding down, Washington broke without scoring. This earned Jarrett a one-point lead. With 1.09 left in the second the action restarted. Washington scored on a 1-pont takedown with 0.19 seconds remaining. The score was tied at 1-1 to end regulation. In overtime, we again go to the “clinch.” This time Washington locked first and ultimately scored on a 3-point throw. Edison loses, 1-4.

Hardy #1071
Jesse Hardy was next up for Kansas. Jesse scored quick and often earning a fall after leading by 12-0.

Altman #1098
Donny Altman dominated another opponent in this match. He used his perfected head-and-arm and a couple of lifts and throws to earn the win, 11-1.

Bailes #1282
Oklahoma was again looking for a bit of hospitality but would find none as they were matched up with Matt Bailes. Matt used a body lock and gut to take the early lead. The Sooner battled back a bit scoring a 3-pointer of his own. Matt closed the Sooner out in the second, winning by tech fall, 14-4.

Furches #1381
I had missed all of the matches of Nathan Furches up till now. And if I would have arrived 30 seconds into the match, I would have missed this bout. Pennsylvania is very well known for having real tough lightweights. But Pennsylvania was no match for Nathan. Furches scored on a sweet duck and throw to take the early lead. Then it was the hammerlock to and under hook to the back for the dramatic win by fall at 1.21.

Eck #1477
Next up was Peter Eck. His opponent was from New York. Eck gave up the first takedown but that would be the last points the New Yorker would manage. Peter won the match by decision, 7-1.

Hardy #1539
Jesse Hardy had to face a familiar foe from Oklahoma. In this case, familiarity bred caution as first period ended without a score. To the clinch we went where Jesse was pushed towards the edge of the mat. Jesse stepped out-of-bounds giving the Sooner the 1-point lead. Later in the period, the Sooner did manage a 1-point takedown. The period ended with Jesse trailing 0-2. But in order to be named the victor, you have to have scored 3 points, it was back to the clinch. Déjà vu … Jesse again stepped out of bounds which gave the 0-3 victory to the Sooner.

Perez #1562
Larry Perez seemed as though he had someplace to be, as he only took 48 seconds to dispose of his next opponent from New Jersey. In the midst of winning the bout Larry did toss in a 5+1 lift and throw.

Eck #1608
The session was winding down and there was only action on a few (of the 23) mats. The Kansas coaches were gathered around, basically feeling fairly pleased with the days results. Someone asked if we were done and I said, “Eck’s up next on Mat 5.” The contingent arrived matside to watch Peter Eck in the last match of the day against a Buckeye from the land of Ohio. I’m glad we did. It looked a bit dismal for the faithful as Peter found himself trailing 0-4. But Eck is a warrior and he battled back to even the score. Then Peter took the lead on a 3+1 head-and-arm as the period ended.

(It’s 1 a.m. as I’m typing this up but I will try to relate the events of the next few seconds of this match the best I can)

The whistle blew to open the second and the combatants were battling for position. The Buckeye saw an opening and went for the head-and-arm. But Eck saw the attempt coming, took a hard step with his right foot and sagged back. The result was Peter was standing behind the Buckeye in a belly-to-back position. The Ohioan was trying his best to just give up the 1-point and fall to his belly. But Peter would have none of it. Peter lifted his opponent and adjusted his grip. Then Peter did a textbook perfect back arch. The Buckeye was helpless, going straight over the top. The first that landed of the Buckeye was the back of his head and then his shoulders. Peter, maintaining his hold, was bridging, arching, and pressing his opponents shoulders to the mat. The result for Peter Eck was a 5-point throw and a fall.

The results for the contingent were hoops and hollers. Thrown in to the mix, were a few “sweet” and “nice” and “great job.” What a way to end Day One of the 2004 Cadet tourney. I’m really looking forward to the Juniors tomorrow!