Sonnabend comes up big for Trojans!

Freshmen Tyler Sonnabend comes up big for HLGU last night with a win over Esmond Ford who is ranked 15th in the NAIA!

Follow this link to recap of last night's dual vs. Mo. Baptist.
http://www.hlgtrojans.com/article/386.php

Middleburg High School Bronco Wrestler Signs with HLGU

Hannibal, MO - The Hannibal-LaGrange University Wrestling program is pleased to have signed Kyle McClinton. McClinton will graduate from Middleburg High School of Middleburg, FL in May of 2013. 

McClinton’s combined career record leading up to his senior year is 63-21. McClinton is a three year captain of the Middleburg Bronco’s wrestling team. “McClinton is a tough wrestler. I’ve seen him wrestle and was impressed with his love for wrestling and desire to improve on the mat. I’m looking forward to seeing how Kyle performs throughout his senior season and I can’t wait to get him in our room next fall’, said HLGU Head Wrestling Coach Scott Hawes. McClinton plans to wrestle at 141 pounds for the Trojans. McClinton also played football for the Middleburg Broncos. McClinton plans on majoring in Media Communications at HLGU.

McClinton is the son of Allen and Erika Hilty.

HLGU is a Division I NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics) school and a member of the American Midwest Conference.

First Tournament of the Season in the Record Books

Dubuque, IA- Last Saturday the Trojans competed in the Loras Open. The Loras Open host the Gold Division for all sophomores and above wrestlers and the Silver Division for all freshmen wrestlers. This year there were more division one wrestlers in Silver Division than in previous years. As a team we had more tournament placers than in previous years and also had more individual wrestlers start out the season with wins at the first tournament than previous years.

 

Below is a list of wrestlers who placed in the 2012 Loras Open.

 

Gold Division

165- Bryce Alexander took 6^th place. He had a win over University of Illinois' Adam Acheson before loosing in the consolation semifinals against Dallas Houchins from Grandview.

174-Nathan Downs started out the day with a 6-5 win over Loras College's Tom Gross. He then faced Ethan Ball from Coe College and lost by fall. Ball went on to become the tournament champions. Downs battled back after this loss and ended the day in 4^th place.

197- Dan Capp took 4^th place. Dan had a win over University of Wisconsin’s Brandon Weber before loosing to Dalton Peterson in the consolation finals. Capp is decending down to 184 lbs this season.

 

Silver Division-Freshmen

157- James Townsend took 7^th place. Townsend's first match of the tournament was against Dustin McClintlock of Truman State. Townsend had wrestled McClintlock in high school and Townsend had never won. This wasn't the case on Saturday Townsend handled the former Ozark High School wrestler nicely and came away with a 8-3 decision over McClintlock.

 

184-Steven "Brady" Ruby took 2^nd place and lost to Parker Hines a University of Wisconsin Unattached in the finals.

Other freshmen wrestlers with wins on the day for the Trojans were Bryar Ginther, Matt Mattingly, Tyler Sonnabend


Gold Division Brackets

 

Silver Division Brackets

Trojans Open Season Ranked 22nd

HANNIBAL, Mo – The Hannibal-LaGrange wrestling squad will start the 2012-13 season just outside of the NAIA Coaches Top-20 Poll. The Trojans currently sit with 17 points, just half a point away from William Penn University and one point away from breaking into the top-20.
Hannibal-LaGrange has received votes for the NAIA rankings in the past, but has never been as close to breaking into the top-20 as it is now.
The team also supports three nationally ranked individuals in junior Bryce Alexander, junior Nathan Downs and sophomore transfer Dan Carey.
After finishing last season with the most wins in team history, Alexander opens the 2012-13 season ranked seventh in the 165 pound weight class. The Maryville, Mo. native is a two time NAIA national qualifier and has accumulated 60 wins in his collegiate career.
"Bryce is going to move up throughout the season in the rankings," stated Head Coach Scott Hawes, "but it all matters what you do at the end of the year in the last tournament. I'm confident that he has as good of a chance as anyone."
"Nathan Downs has that same potential. Any of the top eight guys in his weight class could end up, at the end of the year, on the top of the platform. Nathan has just as good of a shot at that as anyone else."
Downs will start the season ranked eighth in the 174 pound weight class after qualifying for and finishing 12^th in the NAIA National Tournament last season. Carey begins the year ranked 14^th in the 197 pound weight class in his first season at Hannibal-LaGrange.
"Dan Carey is definitely a huge addition to the program this year. Coming in as a newcomer and being nationally ranked is a big plus for us. We're really excited to have him with the program and to get him out there representing the scarlet and blue."
Junior Trojan Dan Capp (184 lbs.) is another wrestler to watch this season as he is currently ranked fifth in the Central Region. He is a two year national qualifier and is tied for the second most wins in a season behind Alexander.
The Trojans will open its season November 3 at the Loras Open in Dubuque, Iowa before getting a chance to prove itself in a road dual at No. 10 Missouri Baptist University on November 7.
Hannibal-LaGrange University is a Division I NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics) institution and a member of the American Midwest Conference.

-Jordan Argo, HLGU SID

2012-13 Trojan Wrestling Team

The 2012-13 Trojan Wrestling pre-season is off to a great start. The returning upper classmen leadership of Bryce Alexander, Dan Capp, Nathan Downs, Tommy Pickens, and Jake Hare is setting the pace for training. Junior transfer 197 lb wrestler Dan Carey (Waubonsee College) is also helping taking the lead with the upper weights.  New comers to watch out for this season are freshmen Bryar Ginther, Caleb Shuck, Matt Mattingley, Tyler Sonnabend,  James Townsend, Brady Ruby, Nigel Burnett, and Mike Wright. Pictures of each 2012-13 Trojan Wrestling team member and managers have been posted on our Facebook team page. Join our Facebook page by clicking here.

Updated Season Schedule

Hannibal- LaGrange University

2012- 2013 Wrestling Schedule

Blue and Red Dual (Intersquad Dual)....................... October 20^th, Hannibal, MO 10 am

IL State...................................................................... October 27^th, Hannibal, MO 4 pm
Loras Open................................................................. November 3^rd Dubuque, IA/ All Day
Missouri Baptist Dual................................................. November 7^th St. Louis, MO/ 7 pm
Knox College Invite.................................................... November 10^th Galesburg, IL/All Day
Truman State Dual ................................................... November 13^th Hannibal, MO/ 7 pm
Lindenwood University Open .................................... November 17^th  St. Charles, MO/ All Day
Missouri Baptist University Dual.............................. November 27^th   Hannibal, MO/ 7 pm
Maranatha Baptist Bible College................................. November 30^th Watertown, WI/ 5pm
Carroll College
Milwaukee School of Engineering Invite.................... December 1^st   Milwaukee, WI/ All Day
Grandview University................................................. December 6^th Des Moines, IA/ 7 pm
Indiana Tech Duals..................................................... December 8^th Fort Wayne, IN
Campbellesville.......................................................... 10 am
Indiana Tech............................................................... 11:30 am
Calumet College......................................................... 1 pm
University of Cumberlands......................................... 2:30 pm
Truett-McConell College.......................................... December 13^th Hannibal, MO/ 7 pm
University of Great Falls ......................................... January 3^rd  Hannbial, MO/ 7 pm
Knox College Dual Tournament................................. January 7^th Galesburg, IL/ All Day
Central College Invite................................................. January 12^th Pella, IA/ All Day
Missouri Valley College Invitational........................... January 19^th   Marshall, MO/ All Day
Grandview Open........................................................ January 26^th Des Moines, IA/ All Day
Harper Open............................................................... February 2^nd  Palatine, IL/ All Day
William Penn University............................................. February 7^th Oskaloosa, IA/ 7 pm
Central Regional Tournament..................................... February 18^th Marshall, MO/ All Day
NAIA National Tournament....................................... March 1^st -3^rd  Des Moines, IA

Wrestling Camp Photos

We had a great week of Trojan Wrestling Camp this summer!I can't wait to hear how our campers do this season!
Join Hannibal-LaGrange University Wrestling Group page on facebook to see more pictures!
-Coach Hawes

2012-13 Wrestling Schedule

Here is what I have of next years schedule so far. We will wrestle MO Bapt. at their place but I don't have the date yet. I will add the Knox College Duals oppenents when I find out the order and who we will end up wrestling. At least for now we have the date.

Hannibal- LaGrange University

Wrestling Schedule

2012- 2013

Loras Open................................................................. November 3^rd Dubuque, IA/ All Day

Knox College Invite.................................................... November 10^th Galesburg, IL/All Day
Truman State Dual ................................................... November 13^th Hannibal, MO/ 7 pm
Lindenwood University Open .................................... November 17^th  St. Charles, MO/ All Day
Missouri Baptist University Dual.............................. November 27^th   Hannibal, MO/ 7 pm
Maranatha Baptist Bible College................................. November 30^th Watertown, WI/ 6pm
Carroll College
Milwaukee School of Engineering Invite.................... December 1^st   Milwaukee, WI/ All Day
Grandview University................................................. December 6^th Des Moines, IA/ 7 pm
Indiana Tech Duals..................................................... December 8^th Fort Wayne, IN
Campbellesville.......................................................... 10 am
Indiana Tech............................................................... 11:30 am
Calumet College......................................................... 1 pm
University of Cumberlands......................................... 2:30 pm
Truett-McConell College.......................................... December 13^th Hannibal, MO/ 7 pm
University of Dubuque Jim Fox Open ....................... December 17^th Dubuque, IA/ All Day
Knox College Dual Tournament................................. January 7^th Galesburg, IL/ All Day
Central College Invite................................................. January 12^th Pella, IA/ All Day
Missouri Valley College Invitational........................... January 19^th   Marshall, MO/ All Day
Grandview Open........................................................ January 26^th Des Moines, IA/ All Day
Harper Open............................................................... February 2^nd  Palatine, IL/ All Day
William Penn University............................................. February 7^th Oskaloosa, IA/ 7 pm
Central Regional Tournament..................................... February 18^th Marshall, MO/ All Day
NAIA National Tournament....................................... March 1^st -3^rd  Des Moines, IA

HWT Missouri State Record Holder Joins Trojans

Hannibal, MO - The Hannibal-LaGrange University Wrestling program is pleased to have signed Mike Wright from St. Clair, MO. Wright will graduate from St. Clair R-13 High School in St. Clair, MO in May of 2012. 

This season Mike Wright compiled an outstanding record of 54-3 and an overall career record of 145-55. Wright is a two time state finalist at 220 lbs. Wright also garnered first team all-conference in 2010, 2011, and 2012. Wright capped off his last three years of wrestling as conference champion as well for the Bulldogs. This year Wright set a school record of most falls in a season at 40 pins and tied for the state record of 40 pins in one season. “Mike Wright is a pinning machine. I’m really excited to have a strong heavyweight joining us for next season. We have some returning heavyweights who are looking forward to the challenges Wright will be bringing into the wrestling room. I’m very impressed with how ever year of high school Mike Wright has gotten better. He went from his freshmen year record of 17-30 to his senior season record of 54-3, and on the way to an outstanding record tied for a state individual pin record. Not only is Mike Wright a good wrestler, but he is a wrestler with excellent character. We are proud to have him on our team next year!”, said HLGU Head Wrestling Coach Scott Hawes. Wright plans to wrestle at HWT for the Trojans.  Along with Wrights wrestling accomplishments he was a 1^st team all-conference soccer player for the Bulldogs. Wright has not declared a major at HLGU at this time.
Wright is the son of Cathy Wright.

HLGU is a Division I NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics) school and a member of the American Midwest Conference.

Shuck Joins Trojans

Hannibal, MO - The Hannibal-LaGrange University Wrestling program is pleased to have signed Caleb Shuck from Willard, MO. Shuck will graduate from Willard High School in Willard, MO in May of 2012. 

This season Caleb Shuck compiled an impressive record of 35-15 and an overall career record of 118-48. Shuck is a three time state qualifier and was part of a team that finished 6^th in the Class 3 team standings. Shuck is a two time all conference wrestler and also led the Tigers in most technical falls and most near fall points. Along with his wrestling success Shuck stood out in Cross Country and Track for the Tigers. “Shuck is a tough wrestler. I’ve seen him wrestle and was impressed with his fearlessness wrestling stronger and heavier opponents. Being part of a strong wrestling program at Willard will allow Shuck to help make a difference in our lighter weights right away. He will be part HLGU wrestling's largest growth in numbers and talent ever”, said HLGU Head Wrestling Coach Scott Hawes. Shuck plans to wrestle at 133 pounds for the Trojans.  Shuck plans on majoring in Nursing at HLGU.

Shuck is the son of Clark and Kimberly Shuck.

HLGU is a Division I NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics) school and a member of the American Midwest Conference.

Marksmen Sets His Mark on Hannibal

Hannibal, MO - The Hannibal-LaGrange University Wrestling program is pleased to have signed Matt Mattingley from Garden City, MO. Mattingley will graduate from Sherwood High School in Garden City, MO in May of 2012. 

This season Matt Mattingley compiled an impressive record of 27-3 and an overall career record of 126-16. Mattingley is a four time state qualifier and a two time medalist. Mattingley held the team record of most takedowns and pins, and also holds the career records for most takedowns and wins for the Marksmen. “I’ve seen Matt wrestle and he is a talented and tough wrestler. Wrestling comes natural for him. Many people have to work hard to develop the talent Matt has naturally. I can’t wait to help him continue to develop as a college wrestler. Matt comes from a small high school program that has been growing, but hasn’t had many practice partners close to his own weight who could really push him. He will fit in here at HLGU. We will provide many practice partners close to his own weight who will push him to be the best that he can be. Matt will be part HLGU wrestling's largest growth in numbers and talent ever.”, said HLGU Head Wrestling Coach Scott Hawes. Mattingley plans to wrestle at 141 pounds for the Trojans.  Mattingley plans on majoring in Recreational Management at HLGU.

Mattingley is the son of Jerry and Tina Mattingley.

HLGU is a Division I NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics) school and a member of the American Midwest Conference.

Sonnabend Joins Trojans

Hannibal, MO – The Hannibal-LaGrange University wrestling program is pleased to have signed Tyler Sonnabend from Manchester, MO. Sonnabend will graduate from Parkway South High School in May of 2012. Sonnabend is a 2 time state qualifier who compiled a high school record of 89-39. In 2010 Sonnabend led the Patriots with the most escapes and reversals. In 2011 Sonnabend once again led the Patriots with the most escapes and reversals and added to the list most technical falls and most near falls. Topping off his career as a Patriot, Sonnabend finished 2012 with the most pins, most takedowns, most escapes, most reversals, most wins, and fastest pin. “Sonnabend clearly improved each year in high school topping off his career with 35 wins. I’ve seen Sonnabend wrestle and I’m certain he will come in and work hard and help us make our Trojan wrestling middle weights much stronger.”, said Head Wrestling Coach Scott Hawes.

Sonnabend will be majoring in Criminal Justice at HLGU.

Sonnabend is the son of Gary and Kathy Sonnabend.

HLGU is a Division I NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics) school and a member of the American Midwest Conference.

Trojan Wrestling Banquet

Click Here to see photos of our wrestling banquet!

Peterson to Celebrate 40 years since Olympic Gold

Many of you know that I had the privilege of wrestling for Olympic Champion Ben Peterson at Maranatha Baptist Bible College. This morning as I was talking to Coach he told me that he was on his way to the Olympic trials this weekend and asked if I was going to be able to attend. Unfortunately, I will not be able to attend as I will be busy showing recruits around campus and I have a work day at my church. However, this weekend will be a special time for everyone at the Olympic trials as their will be a special reunion for the 1972 Olympic Team. Click here to read Ben Peterson's perspective of the reunion and first hand experiences since he won his Olympic Gold in 1972.

Enjoy!

-Coach Scott Hawes

Ruby Makes History

Hannibal, MO - The Hannibal-LaGrange University Wrestling program is pleased to have signed Brady Ruby from Hannibal, MO. Ruby will graduate from Hannibal High School in May of 2012.
This season Brady Ruby compiled an impressive record of 38-18. This season Ruby led the Hannibal Pirates in most escapes, decisions, and reversals “Brady was hampered this season by a knee injury that resulted in surgery after his season was over. I was impressed to see him wrestle through the injury even through the state tournament. I’ve seen Brady compete and I know he has heart and has the potential to be a competitive college wrestler.” said HLGU Head Wrestling Coach Scott Hawes. “We have had two other former Hannibal High School wrestlers compete for us, but they didn’t come to HLGU directly from high school. Ruby is making history by being the first Hannibal High School wrestler to sign with us directly from high school.” Ruby will become the third Hannibal High School wrestler to join the Trojans, but the first Hannibal Pirate to sign during his senior year. Ruby plans to wrestle at 157/165 pounds for the Trojans.
Ruby plans on majoring in Biology at HLGU. Ruby is the son of Rachel Buster and David Ruby.

HLGU is a Division I NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics)
school and a member of the American Midwest Conference.

Trojan News Network Interviews Alexander

Click Here To See Alexander Interviewed and Other HLGU Sports Coverage!

The Hillcrest Hawk's Burnett Signs with the Trojans!

Hannibal, MO - The Hannibal-LaGrange University Wrestling program is pleased to have signed Nigel Burnett from Hazelcrest, IL. Burnett will graduate from Hillcrest High School in Country Club Hills, IL in May of 2012.

This season Nigel Burnett compiled an impressive record of 34-12 and an overall career record of 52-14 in only 1 ½ seasons of wrestling. In his single full season of wrestling Burnett set the Hillcrest Hawks single season pin record at 19 and single season tech fall record at 4. “Burnett is a basketball player turned wrestler who God has gifted with tremendous athleticism. I have had the opportunity to watch Nigel wrestle and was impressed with how naturally he caught on to wrestling. Although Nigel hasn’t had a tremendous amount of experience he does have heart and the natural talent that can be trained to be a very competitive wrestler. I believe Burnett is a diamond in the rough.” said HLGU Head Wrestling Coach Scott Hawes. Burnett plans to wrestle at 184 pounds for the Trojans. As an athlete Burnett has played Basketball, Baseball, Tennis, Football and Wrestling. Burnett has also received numerous awards for his vocal performance. Burnett is an IMEA All-State Bass, SCC All-Conference Bass, and received a superior ranking at IHSA Solo and Ensemble as a student of Hillcrest High School choir.

Burnett plans on majoring in Business at HLGU. Burnett is the son of Kevin Burnett.

HLGU is a Division I NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics)
school and a member of the American Midwest Conference.

NEOSHO WILDCAT SIGNS WITH TROJANS!

Hannibal, MO – The Hannibal-LaGrange University wrestling program is pleased to have signed James Townsend from Goodman, MO. Townsend will graduate from Neosho High School in May of 2012.
Townsend wrestled his freshman through junior year on Neosho High School’s JV as he wrestled behind his upperclassmen teammates who were multiple state champions and state place winners. Townsend wrapped up an impressive 44 wins his only year as a Varsity Wildcat wrestler and ended the season with a 5th place finish in the MSHAA State Wrestling Tournament.
“I’m really excited to have James Townsend be a Trojan wrestler next year!”, said HLGU Head Wrestling Coach Scott Hawes. Hawes explained his reason for being excited, “Townsend is one of those guys who has worked hard day in and day out in high school and didn’t get much re cognition. He knows what it is like to persevere and keep doing the hard things to get better. Townsend’s hard work paid off with a really good senior season and placing 5th in state. Townsend has a positive attitude that I’m sure will be contagious in our room. His experience being part of a State Championship program will be a tremendous asset in our wrestling room. I believe his best wrestling is yet to come!”
Townsend will be wrestling at 157 lbs for the Trojans, and will be majoring in Bible at HLGU.

Townsend is the son of Warren and Debbie Townsend.

HLGU is a Division I NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics) school and a member of the American Midwest Conference

NAIA Champion of Character Jake Hare

Des Moines, Iowa- Every year the NAIA recognizes one wrestler per wrestling program for their outstanding character. This year HLGU's Champion of Character is Jake Hare. Jake has improved as a college wrestler and almost doubled his wins over his freshmen season last year at HWT. Hare is a diligent student and hard worker in the class room. Hare also had the opportunity to participate in NAIA Champions of Character Wrestling Clinic held at the NAIA National Wrestling Championships in the Jacobson Center.

NAIA Championships Trojan Update

Click here for update.
One correction to the article is that Capp was not pinned in his first match. He lost 4-8.

Live Scoring of NAIA National Championships

Click Here

Alexander Home Town Hero

Click here for article

Hannibal Courier Post coverage of Trojan Wrestling

Click here
http://www.hannibal.net/features/x1055695007/Trojans-prepare-for-NAIA-tourney

Brackets Announced for National Tournament

Wrestling National Championships Brackets Announced 322 Individuals from 35 teams set to participate in the three-day event

February 29, 2012 By Alan Grosbach, Manager of Communications & Sports Information

DES MOINES, Iowa – (Brackets – PDF) The 2012 NAIA Wrestling National Championships official brackets have been released, the national office announced Wednesday. Action at the Jacobson Exhibition Center at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines, Iowa, is scheduled to get underway Thursday at 11 a.m. CST. The 55th annual event will consist of six sessions, concluding on Saturday with the championship finals starting at approximately 7 p.m.

There will be 322 wrestlers representing 35 teams taking to the mat, including 26 All-Americans, four previous national champions and a pair of individuals that took top-honors in 2010.

For live match-by-match results, click here.

NeuLion will stream live all 10 individual weight class championship bouts on March 3 and will be available to view starting at approximately 6:45 p.m. CST. A fee of $9.95 is set to view the finals. Click here for more information.

For more information on the NAIA Wrestling National Championships, click here.

Alan Grosbach National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics Manager of Communications and Sports Information 1200 Grand Boulevard | Kansas City, MO 64106

Alexander Breaks Single Season Win Record and Becomes the First HLGU Wrestler to Earn a Seed at the NAIA National Wrestling Championships!

Hannibal, MO - Bryce Alexander a sophomore from Maryville, MO has surpassed the Hannibal-LaGrange University Wrestling’s most wins in a season and also becomes the first HLGU wrestler to earn a seed at the NAIA National Wrestling Championships. The record of 27 single season wins was held in a three way tie last year between Alexander, former HLGU wrestler, Jobi Hambrick (2009-10 Lexington, MO) and current HLGU wrestler sophomore from Kansas City, Dan Capp. After the Central Regional Qualifier tournament Alexander had earned 32 wins so far for the 2011-12 season. HLGU Head Wrestling Coach Scott Hawes says, “Alexander has wrestled the top two wrestlers in the nation in the NAIA. Although he did not beat either of them he took away valuable experience which will help prepare him for his future success. Alexander had a decent college record last season with 27 wins at 157 lbs, and now he has 32 wins at a tougher weight class at 165 lbs.” When Coach Hawes was asked which one of Bryce’s wins this season stuck out in his mind, he replied, “ Well, two wins specifically. One was a win in the finals of the Harper College Open over a University of Illinois wrestler, and secondly was this last weekend when Bryce had to wrestle a match to challenge him for true fourth in our regional tournament. What was significant was Bryce had already wrestled tough for five matches, including a fall over the NO. 8 in the NAIA Rashad Moss from Waldorf, and out of the blue the challenge match came up against Brandon Perkins from Missouri Valley. Perkins medical forfeited to his teammate and then received a forfeit so he was fresh not having wrestled for two rounds. Alexander wrestled a tough consolation finals match and now had to wrestle this challenge match. If Bryce won the challenge match he would become the first HLGU wrestler to be seeded at the national tournament. Also if he wins Perkins doesn’t qualify for the national tournament because he didn’t qualify earlier in the season. There was a lot at stake in this match and Bryce demonstrated the heart of a champion to finish the tournament with a win and he did so in the face of adversity.” Alexander will be joined by red shirt sophomore Nathan Downs (Troy, MO) and sophomore Dan Capp at the NAIA National Wrestling Championships hosted by Grandview University in Des Moines, Iowa, March 1-3, 2012.

Trojans Have Best Regional Finish In Program History

Hannibal, MO - This season proves to be the best performance by HLGU wrestlers in the young program's history. The Trojans finished in 9th place by 13 points over NO. 17 William Penn. Three wrestlers placed in a region marked with heavy team players such as NO. 1 ranked Grandview University, NO. 5 Oklahoma City, NO. 7 Baker, and Missouri Valley. Bryce Alexander lead the way for the Trojans topping off a 32-13 record with a fourth place finish. Alexander's highlight in the tournament was winning by fall over NO. 6 ranked Rashad Moss from Waldorf College and a true 4th challenge match victory over MO Valley's Brandon Perkins. Nathan Downs battled his way to a 5th place finish. Downs had a win by fall over NO. 8 ranked Parker Owen from Baker. Dan Capp lost a close match 2-1 to the NO. 1 seeded Jarid Price from Baker as the result of the officials failure to award two points by take down. Coaches from other institutions were also calling out to the official that two points should have been awarded. Capp battled back but was injured in the consolation semis and was unable to wrestle for 5th place. Capp finished the day in 6th place.
Overall I was proud of the efforts of our team and the improvement we have seen throughout the season. One parent commented on what a difference a year has made. After looking at the results and comparing them to our past, I would have to agree with them. Great Job Trojans! Time to set some more records in Des Moines!

-Click Here for Central Regional Brackets

-Coach Hawes


149: Price, Jarell (Baker (Kan.)) MD Pickens, Tommy(Hannibal La Grange) 12-2

149: Cloud, Carey (William Penn (Iowa)) DEC Pickens, Tommy(Hannibal La Grange) 9-2

165: Moss, Rashad (Waldorf (Iowa)) DEC Alexandar, Bryce(Hannibal La Grange) 18-11

165: Alexandar, Bryce (Hannibal La Grange) FALL Martinez, Anthony(William Penn (Iowa))
5:34

165: Alexandar, Bryce (Hannibal La Grange) DEC Sommer, Nathan(Baker (Kan.)) 4-0

165: Alexandar, Bryce (Hannibal La Grange) FALL Moss, Rashad(Waldorf (Iowa)) 4:53

165: Jackson, Damon (Missouri Valley) DEC Alexandar, Bryce(Hannibal La Grange) 5-9

165: Alexandar, Bryce (Hannibal La Grange) DEC Perkins, Brandon(Missouri Valley) 8-7

174: Vasquez, Gabe (Waldorf (Iowa)) TF5 Taylor, Ian(Hannibal La Grange) 22-7

174: Owen, Parker (Baker (Kan.)) DEC Taylor, Ian(Hannibal La Grange) 8-3

174: Downs, Nathan (Hannibal La Grange) DEC Ward, Jordon(Bethany (Kan.)) 7-2

174: Peperas, Derek (Oklahoma City) FALL Downs, Nathan(Hannibal La Grange) 2:29

174: Downs, Nathan (Hannibal La Grange) DEC Wagner, Brad(Bethany (Kan.)) 5-2

174: Downs, Nathan (Hannibal La Grange) FALL Owen, Parker(Baker (Kan.)) 2:45

174: Knowler, Ty (Grand View (Iowa)) FALL Downs, Nathan(Hannibal La Grange) 5:51

174: Downs, Nathan (Hannibal La Grange) Mfor Swim, Cody(Grand View (Iowa)) -

184: Price, Jarid (Baker (Kan.)) DEC Capp, Dan(Hannibal La Grange) 1-2

184: Capp, Dan (Hannibal La Grange) MD Massay, Mark(York (Neb.)) 13-4

184: Capp, Dan (Hannibal La Grange) DEC Soderblom, Kyle(William Penn (Iowa)) 8-2

184: Franco, Teagan (Oklahoma City) DEC Capp, Dan(Hannibal La Grange) 7-3

285: Duffy, Jason (Bethany (Kan.)) FALL Hare, Jake(Hannibal La Grange) :55

285: Hare, Jake (Hannibal La Grange) Mfor Morrow, Kory(William Penn (Iowa)) -

285: Hare, Jake (Hannibal La Grange) FALL Cook, Tyler(Hannibal-LaGrange (MO)) 4:15

285: Lawrence, Carl (Missouri Valley) FALL Hare, Jake(Hannibal La Grange) 1:09

285: Gebhardt, Brandon (Baker (Kan.)) FALL Cook, Tyler(Hannibal La Grange) 1:13

285: Hare, Jake (Hannibal-LaGrange (MO)) FALL Cook, Tyler(Hannibal La Grange) 4:15

NAIA National Tournament Information

http://www.naia.org/ViewArticle.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=27900&ATCLID=205337111

Trojans Nearly UPSET #17 William Penn University

HANNIBAL, Mo. – The Trojans battled No. 17 William Penn University Tuesday night in a 23-24 loss. Hannibal-LaGrange spotted the Statesmen 18 points after forfeiting the 125 lb., 141 lb. and 157 lb. matches.Senior Tommy Pickens (149 lb.) earned the first points for the Trojans in a 10-7 decision over Charlton Benjamin. Hannibal-LaGrange gained three points off of the decision to close the Statesmen lead to 12-3.The Trojans were forced to forfeit the next match, giving William Penn six more points. However, sophomore Bryce Alexander (165 lb.) closed the gap to 10 for the Trojans after picking up five points in a 17-2 major decision over Anthony Martinez.Sophomore Ian Taylor‘s 5-2 decision over Joe Sumner in the 174 lb. match kept things rolling for Hannibal-LaGrange. Taylor's three points for Hannibal-LaGrange made it 18-11 in favor of the Statesmen.William Penn solidified its win after Kyle Soderblom pinned sophomore Nathan Downs in the fifth minute of the 184 lb. match. Downs, who wrestled a weight class up Tuesday night, looked overmatched against the No. 12 wrestler in the 184 lb. NAIA weight class. The six points put the Statesmen up 24-11.The Trojans picked up the final 12 points of the dual to come within one point of the Statesmen. Sophomore Dan Capp (197 lb.) pinned Chris Diaz with 5:54 on the clock to pull the Trojans within seven before the Statesmen forfeited the heavyweight match to give the Trojans six more points.Hannibal-LaGrange will now travel to Des Moines, Iowa on February 18 to compete in the Central Regional Tournament.Hannibal-LaGrange University is a Division I NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics) institution and a member of the American Midwest Conference.

4 HLGU Wrestlers Place at the Harper Open

Bryce Alexander takes first place over University of Illinois' Matt Nora with a 6-0 decision.
After beating a Northern IL University Wrestler, Dan Capp lost in the finals to NIU wrestler Shane Rosenberry with a 7-4 decision. Ian Taylor placed 4th and Tommy Pickens took 6th place.


Harper Open Results for Hannibal-
LaGrangeCollege 149 - Tommy Pickens's place is 6th and has scored 8.00 team points.Champ. Round 1 - Tommy Pickens (Hannibal- LaGrange) won by major decision over Matt McNulty (Triton College) (Maj 12-4)Quarterfinal - Tommy Pickens (Hannibal- LaGrange) won by forfeit over Tyran Claypool (Calumet college) (FF)Semifinal - Ramsey Beard (Waubonsee) won by major decision over Tommy Pickens (Hannibal- LaGrange) (Maj 12-2)Cons. Semi - Mike Anderson
(kennedy king) won by decision over Tommy Pickens (Hannibal- LaGrange) (Dec 12-7)5th Place Match - Dan Reimer (Calumet college) won by pin over Tommy Pickens (Hannibal- LaGrange) (Pin 2:08)College

165 - Bryce Alexander's place is 1st and has scored 26.00 team points.Champ. Round 1 - Bryce
Alexander (Hannibal- LaGrange) received a bye () (Bye)Quarterfinal - Bryce Alexander (Hannibal- LaGrange) won by forfeit over Ryan Peters (Calumet college) (FF)Semifinal - Bryce Alexander (Hannibal- LaGrange) won by decision over Nick Finkenbinder (Harper College) (Dec 7-6)1st Place Match - Bryce Alexander (Hannibal- LaGrange) won by decision over Matt Nora (University of Illinois) (Dec 6-0)College

174 - Ian Taylor's place is 4th and has scored 13.00 team points.Quarterfinal - Ian Taylor Hannibal- LaGrange) won by pin over Michael Murray (Triton College) (Pin 0:45)Semifinal - Jeff
Kopeke (University of Illinois) won by decision over Ian Taylor (Hannibal-LaGrange) (Dec 8-4)Cons. Semi - Ian Taylor (Hannibal- LaGrange) won by major decision over Mark Daugherty (Calumet college) (Maj 17-3)3rd Place Match - Khari Washington (Harper College) won by decision over Ian Taylor (Hannibal- LaGrange) (Dec 7-1)College

184 - Dan Capp's place is 2nd and has scored 22.00 team points.Champ. Round 1 - Dan Capp (Hannibal- LaGrange) received a bye () (Bye)Quarterfinal - Dan Capp (Hannibal- LaGrange) won by pin over Ameer Bogan (kennedy king) (Pin 3:27)Semifinal - Dan Capp (Hannibal- LaGrange) won by decision over Arber Bebo (Northern Illinois University) (Dec 7-3)1st Place Match - Shane Rosenberry (Northern Illinois University) won by decision over Dan Capp (Hannibal- LaGrange) (Dec 7-4)

THREE WRESTLERS PLACE IN TWO TOURNAMENTS IN A ROW

Last weekend was a tough day of wrestling as Hannibal-LaGrange competed at the Missouri Valley College Invitational Wrestling Tournament. Four out of the top ten teams in the NAIA were present including number one ranked Grandview College. Grandview, William Penn and Morningside were all at the Central College Invite the weekend before. Alexander, Downs and Capp all placed in each of the last two tournaments.
165 lb Sophomore Bryce Alexander (23-11)won the Central College Invite two weeks ago and placed third at the MO Valley Invite this week. At Central invite he pinned Jacob Bohler from St. Olaf in the finals. Bohler earlier in the day beat Wildeboer from Morningside who was ranked 12th in the NAIA. This Weekend at the Mo Valley Invite he pinned Kafuba Donzon from Indiana Tech who beat 8th ranked Barkett from Cumberlands (KY). Finishing in third place Alexander’s only loss in the day Saturday was to number one Kevin Hardy from OK City University.
Red shirt sophomore Nathan Downs (18-10) is ranked 5th in the NAIA Central Group. Downs placed 2nd at Central . At the MO Valley Invite Downs placed 7th.
At 184 sophomore Dan Capp (10-7) Placed 2nd at the Central Invitational and 3rd at the MO Valley Invitational. Capp wrestled 197 lbs all first semester. Since wrestling 184 lbs this semester his record is 6-2. Capp took 2nd place at Central Invite to a Basil Minto (NIACC) 3-1 final score. Capp beat Andrew Anthofer (ranked 11th) from Morningside 7-2. In the same tournament after Capp and Anthofer match, Anthofer beat Soderblom(ranked 10) from William Penn 11-3. During a winnable match at the Mo Valley Invite Capp lost his first match of the day to Pontikes from OCU. Pontikes is ranked 8th in the NAIA and Capp lost the match by a score of 3-2. Capp then won three straight matches with a win in the consolation final over Alba from Mckendree. Alba beat Pontikes who Capp had lost to in his first match. Capp also placed Higher thanLindenwood’s Harrison who placed 8th last year in the NAIA’s.
Overall it the last two weekends have been good for these three wrestlers. I’m looking forward to seeing how they do this weekend at the
Grandview Open in Des Moines, IA.

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Odessa Bulldog Signs with HLGU

Hannibal, MO – The Hannibal-LaGrange University wrestling program is pleased to have signed Michael Boyd from Odessa, MO. Boyd will graduate from Odessa High School in May of 2012. Boyd is the second signee of the 2012 HLGU recruiting class. Boyd is wrestling at 170 lbs for the Odessa Bulldogs this season. Last season Boyd qualified for the MO State tournament with a 32-15 record on the season. This season Boyd has seen much improvement with a 26-1 record on the season and has his eyes set on a state championship this year.

“Last summer I got a chance to know Michael at our Trojan Wrestling Camp and was impressed with his character and hard work. Michael loves wrestling and he believes in our program. He has been enthusiastic about HLGU and wrestling for HLGU next year. I’m looking forward to his enthusiasm and hard work in the room”, said HLGU Head Wrestling Coach Scott Hawes. Boyd also took 2nd in the 2011 Greco State tournament. Along with Boyd’s wrestling accomplishment he has also played football, baseball and track for Odessa High School. Michael plans on wrestling 149/157 next year for the Trojans.

Boyd will be majoring in Secondary Education at HLGU.

Boyd is the son of Mike and Patty Boyd.

HLG is a Division I NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics) school and a member of the American Midwest Conference