The Lakers were led by freshman Matt Jordan at 125lbs. Mat went 4-1 on the day losing in the finals 3-4 capturing runner up honors in his first college competition. Matt was dominate on his way to the finals winning two matches by pin and two by major decision.
"Matt has been committed since the first day he got to Iowa Lakes and that work is paying off. Good things will continue to happen for Matt as he builds off this first weekend. We are excited for Matt because he is determined and as coachable as they come," says Coach Alesch.
Robert Hall and Mitchell Williamson also had good days for the Lakers both capturing 3rd place finishes. After losing close semifinal matches they both battled back to win their 3rd place matches. Robert went 4-1 on the day and this was a breakout day for Robert. He has been at Iowa Lakes for past two years behind All-American Anthony Fisher and now is stepping up for the Lakers.
"It was so great seeing Robert compete the way we know he is capable of. The past couple years we have seen flashes of what he can do but today reflected the consistency we have seen from him in his training the past couple months. He has been working hard, taking care of school and driven to make this year special," said Coach Alesch.
Mitchell had a good day losing a close 1-3 match in the semi's but will have many opportunities to battle with that opponent from Iowa Central through the season. Mitchell finished 3-1 on the day and the Lakers look for him to be a big part of their success as one of the leading returners on the team.
Some other individuals on the team with good days were Deville Dentis going 3-1 at 149 lbs. before injury defaulting out. Austin Hinzman went 3-1 at 184 lbs. before also defaulting out. "Both Deville and Austin injury defaulted out to ensure they are healthy for Wednesday's dual vs IA Western. Nothing serious for injuries but their days were hard on a couple things they have been dealing with and we didn't want to push their situations any further," said Coach Alesch.
"We had a few guys get banged up and days ended early due to the fact. We saw what we needed to see from the team for the most part. Overall as a coaching staff we thought the guys fought hard and showed us what we were looking for. We need to get tougher, but we are a young team that will grow and the potential for a great season is there. We have a group that needs to see that picture like we do as coaches then believe in themselves. We are looking forward to what is ahead for us," said Coach Alesch.
PHOTO: Photo of the 19-20 attached.
MEDIA: For more information, please contact Head Wrestling Coach Cody Alesch at (712) 362-7930 or the Iowa Lakes sports information office at (712) 362-7928.