Burke Signs With The Trojans

Hannibal, MO - The Hannibal-LaGrange University Wrestling program is pleased to have signed Thomas Burke from New Port Richey, FL. Burke graduated from River Ridge High School in May of 2013. 

In his senior season Thomas Burke compiled a record of 44-12 and an overall career record of 105-46. Burke was a 2013 Disney Duals All-American, 2012 Sunshine State Games Freestyle Champion. Burke was All-Conference from 2009-2013 and was a 2013 District Champion. Burke was a four year varsity wrestlers for the River Ridge Royal Knights and also a team captain.  Burke also helped lead his team to a 2013 team runner up finish in conference and a team District Championship.  “Thomas loves wrestling and misses wrestling after attending his local community college last year. He is hungry to get back into competition and we are excited to have him be part of our program this year. ”, said HLGU Head Wrestling Coach Scott Hawes. Burke plans to wrestle at 141 pounds for the Trojans.  Burke plans on majoring in Criminal Justice at HLGU.

Thomas Burke is the son of Kevin and Geralyn Burke.

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

Texan Joins the Trojans

Hannibal, MO - The Hannibal-LaGrange University Wrestling program is pleased to have signed Joshua Nidever from Houston, TX. Nidever is a 2014 graduate from Mirabeau B. Lamar High School in Houston, TX. 

In his senior season Joshua Nidever compiled an excellent record of 48-8 and an overall career record of 120-48. Nidever was also a team captain for the Lamar High School Redskins.  “Nidever is a hard working wrestler. I’ve seen him wrestle and was impressed with his tenacity wrestling stronger and older college opponents.  Coach Alberto Rodriguez, a Cuban Olympian and World Champion, is Nidever’s personal coach. Coach Rodriguez  and I agree that Nidever is a diamond in the rough.  Coach Rodriguez has been working with him over the last couple of years and Nidever has been consistently improving. Nidever has been broadening his experience in wrestling and finished 4^th in the Texas Freestyle State Tournament. Nidever is hungry to continue his wrestling in college. I’m looking forward to this hunger to grow Nidever into being a very competitive college wrestler”, said HLGU Head Wrestling Coach Scott Hawes. Nidever plans on wrestling at 149 or 157 pounds for the Trojans. When Nidever was asked why he chose HLGU he responded, “I chose HLGU because I believe it to be a place where I can wrestle and serve the Lord at the same time.” Nidever plans on majoring in Business at HLGU.

Joshua Nidever is the son of Cecil and Nadia Nidever.

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

Rowdy Miller Inks with Trojans

Hannibal, MO – The Hannibal-LaGrange University wrestling program is pleased to have signed Rowdy Miller from John’s Creek, Georgia. Miller wrestled for the Chattahoochee High School Cougars in John’s Creek, GA. Miller wrestled 152 lb weight class last season and is planning on wrestling in the 157 lb weight class for the Trojans next year. Miller led the Chattahoochee Cougars in team points scored on route to 4^th place in the GHSA Class 6A State Championships. Miller’s other wrestling accomplishments include freshmen state champion, 8^th place at Brute Nationals 2012, 4x Georgia National Team Member, 3 times State Freestyle and Greco Runner up, and 2010 Dixie All-American. Miller finished his High School career record with 106 wins which put him in the 100 win club.  

“Because of the distance the first time I watched Rowdy wrestle was on the web, and when he came for his campus visit I had a chance to see him wrestle with some of our current wrestlers. Miller faced some injuries in his sophomore and junior season and he stayed dedicated and overcame obstacles to finish 4^th in Georgia. His losses in the state tournament were to the state champion and state consolation champion. He has a mental toughness and dedication that got him there. I am impressed with his character and hard work. I can tell Rowdy has had a family that supported him and coaches who have trained him well. Rowdy loves wrestling and he believes in our program. He is enthusiastic about 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. When Rowdy was asked, “Why did you choose to wrestle for HLGU?”  Rowdy replied, “ I felt like this school could bring me to my full potential as a wrestler and a student.”

Miller will be majoring in Mathematics at HLGU.

Miller is the son of Jeff and Karen Miller.

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

Hauser Joins Trojans

Hannibal, MO - The Hannibal-LaGrange University Wrestling program is pleased to have signed Anthony Hauser from Orange Park, FL. Hauser will graduate from Oakleaf High School of Orange Park, FL in May of 2014. 

This season Anthony Hauser compiled an impressive record of 35-12. This season Hauser also joined the Oakleaf Knights 100 win club. Hauser was a team captain, 2 time district champion, regional runner up and a state place winner. He also placed 3^rd in Freestyle state. Hauser was asked the reason why he chose HLGU.  Hauser replied, “I felt that HLGU is the best fit for me academically and athletically. I wanted to surround myself with people with good intentions who are going to help me succeed on and off the mat.”  HLGU Head Wrestling Coach Scott Hawes stated “I’m looking forward to having Anthony on the team this season. He had a solid high school career with 119 wins and finishing 4^th in the 2A Florida state tournament. I’ve seen his video and he is a hard worker. He will continue to get better in college and the sky is the limit for Anthony.”  Hauser plans to wrestle at 133 pounds for the Trojans.

Hauser is currently undecided on his major at HLGU.

Hauser is the son of Michael and Samantha Hauser.

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

 

Beaver Dam High School (WI) Wrestler Signs with the Trojans

Willie Roth pictured with his parents Joe and Judy Roth

and Beaver Dam High School Head Coach Jeff Slayton. 

 

 

Hannibal, MO - The Hannibal-LaGrange University Wrestling program is pleased to have signed William (Willie) Roth from Beaver Dam, WI. Roth will graduate from Beaver Dam High School in May of 2014. 

In his senior season Willie Roth compiled a record of 28-14 and an overall career record of 98-44. Roth’s season this year was hampered by injury. However he provided leadership for his team as a team captain. Roth also led his team as holding the 6^th place for most career wins for the Beavers. Roth also earned over 120 team points for Beaver Dam High for three seasons.  “Roth is a hard working tough wrestler. He wrestled his senior season having to face the pain of a nagging injury every day. Some people would just hang up the shoes, but Roth is hungry to keep wrestling. I’ve seen him wrestle and was impressed with his fearlessness wrestling stronger and older opponents. I’m excited to have Roth be part of our continued growth as a program”, said HLGU Head Wrestling Coach Scott Hawes. Roth plans to wrestle at 174 pounds for the Trojans. Roth also played Football, Baseball, and competed in Track for the Beavers. Roth plans on majoring in Biology at HLGU.

Willie Roth is the son of Joe and Judy Roth.

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

Hazelwood Central Hawk State Champion Commits to the Trojans

Hannibal, MO - The Hannibal-LaGrange University Wrestling program is pleased to have signed Khial Jamison from Florissant, MO. Jamison will graduate from Hazelwood Central High School in May of 2014. 

Khial Jamison compiled an impressive record of 42-2 during his senior season for the Hazelwood Central Hawks. At the Class 4 MO state wrestling tournament Jamison overcame Dustin Gray of Timberland with a 4-2 decision. The state finals matchup between Jamison and Gray at 170 lbs was a rematch between the two who had faced each other in the district finals. Gray was a returning state finalist facing Jamison who finished 6^th in the previous state tournament. In the district matchup Gray was the winner. However, Jamison changed up his strategy in the finals match and stepped to the top of the winner’s platform as the 2014 Class 4 170 lb  MO state wrestling champion. Jamison makes history with the Trojans as the first MO Class 4 State Champion to wrestle for the Trojans.

To accompany Jamison’s monumental achievement in the Missouri state tournament he has also been recognized by the Hazelwood Central Hawks as the 2013&14 Outstanding Wrestler, 2014 SLOWA Supreme Wrestler Achiever, and 2014 SLOWA Senior of the Year. Jamison also led the Hawks this year with most falls, most takedowns, most wins, most match points. Jamison’s overall career record is 120-25. “I’m really excited that Khial has decided to be part of making history here at HLGU. Khial is an overcomer. He proved that this year facing a disappointing loss in districts to come back and win in the finals over Gray. He has the heart of the competitor that we are looking for in our program.  His achievements on the mat speak for itself. Khial knows college wrestling is a big step up, but we both believe he can come into our program and help make a difference.” said HLGU Head Wrestling Coach Scott Hawes. Jamison plans on wrestling at 174 pounds next season for the Trojans.

Jamison plans on majoring in Business at HLGU.

Jamison is the son of Greg and Karen Stevens and Howard Jamison III.

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

Excelsior Springs Tiger Joins The Trojans

Hannibal, MO - The Hannibal-LaGrange University Wrestling program is pleased to have signed Braxxtin Todd from Excelsior Springs, MO. Todd will graduate from Excelsior Springs High School in May of 2014. 

This season Todd compiled an impressive record of 36-8 and an overall career record of 115-52.  Todd is a 3 time state tournament qualifier qualifying in his sophomore, junior, and senior seasons. Todd had a strong showing at the 2014 Missouri State Championships making it to the consolation finals and finishing 3^rd at 160 lbs.  Todd was also a two-time 1^st team All-Conference wrestler for the Excelsior Springs Tigers. “Braxxtin Todd has done a lot of off season wrestling and that shows he is dedicated wrestler. Todd has a history of working hard as he improved every season of his high school career. I’m looking forward to him making this next step of wrestling for me at the college level.  Todd has what it takes to be a competitive collegiate wrestler,” said HLGU Head Wrestling Coach Scott Hawes. Hawes continued, “Braxxtin is a great addition to our program. I’m excited to see what Braxxtin will accomplish next year." Todd plans on wrestling in the 157 lb weight class next year for HLGU.

Todd plans on majoring in Biology/Dental at HLGU.

Todd is the son of Fred and Stacey Todd.

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

Alexandar and Capp HLGU's First Wrestling All-Americans

TOPEKA, Kan. – Seniors Bryce Alexander and Dan Capp finished in sixth and eighth place, respectfully, in the NAIA National Championships, becoming the first NAIA All-Americans in HLGU wrestling history.
Alexander (165) started the tournament off with a bye before defeating Malcolm Johnson (Morningside) by fall in 6:54, advancing him into a quarterfinal match against Kafuba Donzon (Indiana Tech).
Alexander was awarded the third round win and advanced into the semifinals after Donzon was disqualified for an illegal move. However, the Maryville, Mo. native was given a concussion in his quarterfinal match, forcing him to medically forfeit his remaining matches and end the national championships in sixth place.
Capp (184) lost his first match of the championships by way of a 10-5 decision to Rulin Pederson (Morningside), sending the senior down into the consolation bracket where he finished 3-2 for an eighth place finish.
Capp bounced back from his early defeat with three straight wins by decision. His first win came against Marcus Zachary (Simpson) in a 4-2 decision while the Kansas City, Mo. native picked up another 4-2 win against Cody Sivertsen (Oklahoma City).
Capp guaranteed himself a top-eight finish and All-American status after defeating Kamron Jackson (Great Falls) by an 8-4 decision.
His winning streak finally came to an end in the next consolation match as Capp lost to Pederson again, this time by a 4-1 decision, to fall into a match against Jacob Abrams (Southern Oregon) for seventh place.
Capp lost his second straight as Abrams won by a 7-4 decision, giving Capp an eighth place finish.
Freshman Grant Godfrey joined Alexander in the 165-pound bracket, but was unable to make his way past the first day of the tournament.
The Ozark, Mo. native lost his first match by fall in 1:49 to Jacob Shirley (Cumberlands), sending him into the consolation bracket.
Godfrey pinned his next opponent, Jordon Ward (Bethany), in 1:08 before being knocked out of the championships by a 9-0 major decision to Trey Rhodes (Campbellsville).
Along with claiming their first two All-Americans, the Trojans finished the tournament in 21st place as a team, it's highest ever while competing in the NAIA National Championships.
-Jordan Argo/ HLGU SID

Alexandar, Godfrey, Capp Trojans 2014 NAIA National Tournament Qualifiers

MARSHALL, Mo. – Hannibal-LaGrange qualified three wrestlers for the NAIA National Championships and finished eighth as a team Saturday while competing in the NAIA Central Qualifying Tournament.
Senior Bryce Alexander (165 lb.), freshman Grant Godfrey (165 lb.) and senior Dan Capp (184 lb.) all qualified for the NAIA Championships with top-five finishes at the qualifying tournament.
Alexander qualified for his fourth showing at the NAIA Championships with a third place finish in the 165 pound bracket. The Maryville, Mo. native closed out the tournament with a 4-1 record, including a victory over teammate Godfrey.
Alexander started the day off with back-to-back wins over Courtney Shavers (Benedictine) and Joshua Eidson (Lindenwood-Belleville) by way of a 6-0 decision and 13-3 major decision, respectfully. The senior suffered his lone loss of the tournament in an 8-3 decision against Jordon Ward (Bethany), placing him into the consolation bracket against Godfrey.
Alexander made quick work of his teammate, winning by fall in 33 seconds before taking third place with a 6-1 decision over Dylan King (Missouri Valley).
Godfrey also won his first match of the day, defeating Jamie Shawver (Oklahoma City) by a 12-6 decision. However, the freshman lost his next match by fall to eventual champion Chad Lowman (Grand View), placing him into the consolation bracket.
The Ozark, Mo. native followed the loss with a win by fall over Josue Terrones (Benedictine). Godfrey pinned Terrones in 1:37 before losing by fall to Alexander. The loss to his teammate placed Godfrey into the fifth place match against Eidson where he won by fall in 1:24 to claim a top-five finish in the 165 pound weight class.
Capp claimed an at-large bid into the NAIA Championships, giving the senior his third trip to the national championships after placing fifth in the Central Qualifying Tournament.
The Kansas City, native won his opening match with a 10-0 major decision over Vincent Opuiyo (Benedictine) before losing a 4-2 decision to Parker Owen (Baker). The loss sent Capp into the consolation bracket where he defeated Jose Hernandez (Benedictine) and Spencer Wilson (Bethany) by 7-2 and 5-4 decisions, respectfully.
Capp then fell by a 6-2 decision to eventual third place finisher Cody Sivertsen (Oklahoma City) and defeated John Hambleton (Baker) 5-3 to claim fifth place in the 184 pound weight class.
The three Trojan wrestlers will now prepare for the NAIA National Championships held in Topeka, Kan. on March 7-8.

--Jordan Argo, HLGU SID

Preliminary Brackets and NAIA Press Release

Trojans Claim Victory Over RedBirds

HANNIBAL, Mo. – Hannibal-LaGrange defeated Illinois State 33-18 Saturday afternoon in its first match of the season.  The win gives HLGU its second straight victory over the Red Birds as the Trojans took last year's match 40-6.
"[Woods, McElfresh, Townsend, and Wright] have been working hard and they came through big for us and got us six points each [by fall] to help us win the dual," commented Head Coach Scott Hawes.  "I'm very proud of the team.  We had a lot of guys out with sickness and injury as well as some eligibility issues.  We had a young lineup step in and take the lead and they did a good job for us."
Sophomore Brady Sloup (125 lb.) opened the dual for Hannibal-LaGrange with a win by forfeit, giving HLGU an early 6-0 lead.
Sophomore Gary Woods (133 lb.) and freshman Caleb McElfresh (149 lb.) increased the Trojans' lead by 12 as each won by fall.
After giving up three points to Illinois State, HLGU pushed ahead with another win by fall.  Sophomore James Townsend (157 lb.) pinned Ryan Loy to up the Trojans' advantage to 24-3.  Freshman Jeremiah Reed (165 lb.) followed the pin with a 2-1 decision over Marcus McCall, giving Hannibal-LaGrange three more points.
Illinois State picked up 15 points during the next three matches to cut the Trojan lead down to 27-18.  Steve Burling won by fall over Trojan freshman Jacob Kaibel (174 lb.), Julio Perez won by a 3-2 decision over sophomore Seth Pierce (184 lb.) and Tom Mitrenga won by forfeit in the 197 lb. weight class.
In the final match of the afternoon, sophomore Michael Wright (285 lb.) put the finishing touches on the Red Birds with Hannibal-LaGrange's fourth win by fall.  Wright's victory over Kyle Ressinger gave HLGU six more points and a 15 point win.
The Trojans will now prepare for their next match on Thursday, Nov. 7.  The home dual against Benedictine is set to begin at 7:00 p.m. inside the Mabee Sports Complex.
-Jordan Argo, HLGU SID

Trojan Wrestling Kicks Off 6th Season

Hannibal, MO  - Hannibal-LaGrange University Trojan Wrestling program started its sixth season of competition this fall. After several weeks of lifting, conditioning, open mat and the start of practice, the Trojan wrestlers are starting to show signs they are ready to rumble on the mat. The Labor Day Weekend Camp out has become an annual Trojan wrestling tradition. The purpose of this camp out is for the coaches and wrestlers to have a team bonding experience. This year’s Labor Day camp out has sparked the fire for good team chemistry which has led to a high level of intensity in practice.  From the beginning of preseason our returning wrestlers have set the tone for the intensity of our practices and the new wrestlers have jumped right in giving us some spirited and intense practices. This season we have three seniors, Bryce Alexandar (184 Maryville, MO), Dan Capp (184 Kansas City, MO), and Dan Carey (197 Batavia, IL), who will lead the Trojans this year.  Returners who are back who will make an impact this season are Caleb Shuck (141 Willard, MO), Tyler Sonnabend (149 St. Louis, MO), James Townsend (157 Neosho, MO),  Mike Wright (HWT St. Clair, MO). Some newcomers to watch will be Brady Sloup  (125 Quincy, IL), Gary Woods (125/133 Fredricksburg, VA), Caleb McElfresh (125 Colorado Springs, CO), Kyle McClinton (141 Middleburg, FL)  Kyle Lippman (157 Winfield, MO), Jeremiah Reed (165 St. Peters, MO), Jacob Kaibel (165 Troy, MO), Seth Pierce (174 Liberty, MO), Robert Simons (197 Mustang, OK).  Other wrestlers who will be competing for HLGU throughout the season are Cameron Lanterman (165 Lake Isabella, CA),  LJ Downey (165 Baltimore, MD), Colton Bock (197 Monroe City, MO), Konner Braughton (197 Kansas City, MO),  Justin Whitaker (197 Kansas City, MO) Cody Carter (HWT Pittsfield, IL), Kenneth Stanger (HWT Troy, MO).  On a spiritual level I have been challenging our wrestlers daily to not strive for excellence just on the mat, but in the classroom and in life in Christ. This year I have been using legendary basketball Coach John Wooden and Jay Carty’s book called Coach Wooden’s Pyramid of Success Playbook-Applying The Pyramid of Success To Your Life to guide us with Biblical principles which lead to successful living. We aren’t just training for wrestling at the Secker Fieldhouse we are training for life.

Hannibal- LaGrange University

2013- 2014 Wrestling Schedule 

Blue and Red Dual (Intersquad Dual)............................ October 26^th, Hannibal, MO 10 am

IL State........................................................................ November 2^nd, Hannibal, MO 4 pm

Benedictine................................................................. November 7^th Hannibal, MO/ 7 pm

Knox College Invite...................................................... November 9^th Galesburg, IL/All Day

Truman State Dual ....................................................... November 14^th Kirksville, MO/ 7 pm

Luther Open................................................................ November 16^th Decorah, IA/All Day

Joe Parisi Open ........................................................... November 23^rd St. Charles, MO/ All Day

Maranatha Baptist Bible College................................... December 6^th Watertown, WI/ 5pm

Milwaukee School of Engineering Invite....................... December 7^th  Milwaukee, WI/ All Day

York Open................................................................... December 14^th York, NE

Knox College Dual Tournament.................................... January 4^th Galesburg, IL/ All Day

Central College Invite................................................... January 11^th Pella, IA/ All Day

Missouri Baptist University.......................................... January 14^th, Hannibal, MO/7pm

Missouri Valley College Invitational............................... January 18^th   Marshall, MO/ All Day

Grandview Open......................................................... January 25^th Des Moines, IA/ All Day

Graceland University (Senior Night)......................... January 21^st, Hannibal, MO/ 7 PM

Baker University.......................................................... January 28^th, Ballwin City, KS 7 pm

Harper Open................................................................ February 1^st   Palatine, IL/ All Day

William Penn University............................................... February 13^th Oskaloosa, IA/ 7 pm

Midwest Qualifying Championship............................... February 22^nd, Marshall, MO/ All Day

NAIA National Tournament         March 7-8 Topeka, KS  

Ragsdale Makes Early Commitment to HLGU Wrestling

 

By Clint Mitchell

clintm@marshfieldmail.com

For Marshfield senior Micah Ragsdale, all of his years of hard work and dedication have finally come to fruition.

The Blue Jays senior wrestler secured a college future last Friday in the Marshfield High School library, signing his National Letter of Intent to wrestle at Hannibal-LaGrange University next season.

“This is such a good day for me,” Ragsdale said. “It’s very exciting. Overall, they have such a nice campus at Hannibal, and the coaches are all good guys. It was just a perfect fit for me.”

A large crowd of family, friends and coaches piled into the high school library to witness Ragsdale’s signing. And as one-by-one they came to shake the senior’s hand, he admitted, the support was overwhelming.

“That means a lot to me,” he said. “I really didn’t expect to see that many people show up. To have that kind of support, that just means so much to me, more than I can explain.”

Ragsdale is coming off a 44-8 junior campaign, in which he won the Class 3, District 3 title in the 195-pound weight class. He qualified for the state tournament, compiling a 2-2 record en route to a second-place consolation-bracket finish. The 6-0 senior also racked up a 31-14 record as a sophomore, just missing out on state qualification.

But it was a trip to the Hannibal-LaGrange wrestling camp in the summer leading into junior season in which Ragsdale made the biggest impact on the Trojan coaching staff.

“He was such a hard worker, and she showed us that he wanted to be a student of the sport,” said Hannibal-LaGrange University head wrestling coach Scott Hawes. “He worked really hard, and really focused on taking on the technique that we taught him.”

Hawes and his staff — who have qualified 10 wrestlers for the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics National tournament since 2008 — stayed in touch with Ragsdale over the following seasons, watching him improve each time on the mat. But just as important as wins and losses, Hawes said, was Ragsdale’s work ethic.

In fact, Ragsdale’s hard work was enough to earn him a spot on the Missouri National team last summer, after the he finished fourth at the State Freestyle/Greco tournament.

Though Ragsdale finished 0-4 at the National Freestyle/Greco tournament in Fargo, N.D. — the premier event for high school wrestlers — his participation alone in the highly-prestigious tournament was enough to leave an impression on Hawes.

“That’s one thing we really look for,” Hawes said. “We saw him out there wrestling in some big summertime tournaments. A lot of guys are at home enjoying the summer off, but Micah was out there working. That’s important to us.”

The fact that Ragsdale’s work ethic has carried him so far comes as no surprise to Marshfield head wrestling coach Chris Teed, who has seen his senior’s growth and maturity firsthand.

“It’s so exciting for me to see this for Micah,” Teed said. “I’ve seen him put a lot of time and effort into getting this far. I have no doubts he’s going to succeed at the college level, just because of how hard he works.”

Teed took over as the Jays’ head coach this summer, after spending two years as an assistant, and he admits, without Ragsdale, the Marshfield program would not be where it is today.

“Micah is such a good leader,” he said. “He’s not always the most vocal, but he leads by example. That’s very important for a coach to have somebody like that who’s going to take on some sort of leadership role. He’s helped build this program up, and people have come out for us just because they’ve seen how Micah handles his business.

“I’ve enjoyed seeing Micah go from where he was when I got here, to where he is now. I’ve felt him getting better and getting tougher. I know it’s encouraging to him to see all his hard work pay off.”

In addition to wrestling this winter, Ragsdale is also a standout offensive lineman on the Blue Jays football team. And though he said he enjoys his time on the grid iron, Ragsdale knows when the winter rolls around, he’ll be putting in countless hours on the mat to ensure not only a successful senior campaign, but an optimistic start to his college career.

“I really feel like I’m prepared (for college wrestling),” Ragsdale said. “But I know I have a lot to work. I need to get better in the top and bottom positions. But I have confidence in myself, and I know I can do good and be successful when I get to Hannibal.”

Quincy Blue Devil Joins Trojan Wrestling

Hannibal, MO – The Hannibal-LaGrange University wrestling program is pleased to have signed Brady Sloup from Quincy, Illinois. Sloup wrestled for the Quincy High School Blue Devils in Quincy, IL and graduated in May of 2012. Sloup wrestled in the 120 lb weight class for the Blue Devils and is planning on wrestling in the 125 lb weight class for the Trojans next year. Sloup compiled a career record of 111-35. Prior to his senior year season being cut short due to an injury, Sloup compiled an impressive 29-1 record.

 “I’m excited to have Brady wrestling for us next season. After getting hurt and not being able to compete at state, I know Sloup left high school wrestling with a bad taste in his mouth. After a year off of wrestling Sloup is hungry for competition. I’ve seen him at open mats and he is intense and has heavy hands for a light wrestler. Sloup is a hard worker and every year in high school he got better and did the things in the off season to get better. At the J Robinson 28 day Intensive Wrestling Camp Brady was recognized as a top 5 wrestler. I am confident that we will see much improvement in Brady’s wrestling ability as he has the opportunity to build on the foundation his high school coaches laid. I’m looking forward to having Brady in the room next season”, said HLGU Head Wrestling Coach Scott Hawes.

 Sloup was also a captain for the Blue Devils his senior year and all-conference wrestler in the Western Big 6. Sloup is also the first Quincy High School wrestler to wrestle for the Trojans.

 Sloup will be majoring in Criminal Justice at HLGU.

 

Lippman Becomes First Winfield Warrior to Join Trojan Wrestling!

 

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

Lippman’s combined career record on varsity is 131-63 and he was a four time state qualifier. His best season record was this year with a 45-8, 1^st place in the GAC North Conference Championship, District Champion and 4^th place finish in the MO State Tournament. “Lippman is only going to get better in college. He loves wrestling. I’ve seen him wrestle and I can see his desire to improve. Lippman will bring intensity to the room. He will be a great addition to our room next year”, said HLGU Head Wrestling Coach Scott Hawes. Lippman also set the Winfield Warriors school’s records of first 4x state qualifier, most wins in a season at 45, and record for fastest pin at 7 seconds. Lippman also shined last year for the Warrior track team by qualifying in the high jump in the MO state tournament.  Lippman plans to wrestle at 157/165 pounds for the Trojans. Lippman plans on majoring in Nursing at HLGU.

Lippman is the son of Jason and Cara Lippman.

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

Mustang High School Bronco Joins Trojan Wrestling

Hannibal, MO – The Hannibal-LaGrange University wrestling program is pleased to have signed Robert Simons from Mustang, Oklahoma. Simons wrestles for Mustang High School in Mustang, OK. Simons wrestled 195 lb weight class last season and is planning on wrestling in the 197 lb weight class for the Trojans next year. Simons started wrestling for the Mustang High School Broncos his sophomore year and has seen his record improve every year since. Simons attained a 6-19 record his sophomore season and this year finished with a much improved record of 23-14.  

 “I had the opportunity to see Robert wrestle when he came for his campus visit. Robert is a hard worker and will develop more as a college wrestler. I am confident that we will see much improvement in Robert’s wrestling ability as he has the opportunity to build on the foundation his high school coaches laid. I am impressed with Robert’s desire to improve and his hard work. Robert loves wrestling and he believes in our program. I’m looking forward to having Robert in the room next season”, said HLGU Head Wrestling Coach Scott Hawes.

This season Simons was also named the Mustang High School Sr. Wrestler of the year and was the Mustang High School Bronco Spirit Award winner his junior year .

Simons will be majoring in Art at HLGU.

Simons is the son of Kevin and Rene’ Simons.

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

Marauder Joins Trojans!

Hannibal, MO - The Hannibal-LaGrange University Wrestling program is pleased to have signed Caleb “Chip” McElfresh from Colorado Springs, CO. McElfresh will graduate from Mitchell High School in May of 2013. 

This season McElfresh compiled an impressive record of 27-9 which was a huge improvement over his freshmen year record of 6-10.  McElfresh is a Colorado state tournament qualifier and was a regional runner up this year for the Mitchell High School Marauders. “Chip is a tough wrestler and a hard worker. Mcelfresh improved every season of his high school career and he knows how to work through the tough times in a wrestling season. His high school coaches, Coach Kevin Meyer and Coach Tim Bonebright, believe Chip is only going to get better in college. I’ve seen Chip wrestle and I agree with their assessment. I’m looking forward to him making this next step of wrestling for me at the college level.  McElfresh has what it takes to be a competitive collegiate wrestler,” said HLGU Head Wrestling Coach Scott Hawes. “Chip will be a great addition to our program. I’m excited to see what Chip will accomplish as a freshman."

Along with wrestling McElfresh competed in Football, Cross Country, Baseball and Track at Mitchell High school. McEfresh was also a three sport athlete for all four years for the Marauders. Chip was a two time team captain and received the Most Improved Jr. Award. This year Chip received another team honor by receiving the Marauders Team Leadership Award.  McElfresh will be wrestling in the 125 lb weight class next year for HLGU.

McElfresh plans on majoring in Media Communications at HLGU.

McElfresh is the son of Tina Cooper.

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

 

2013 Troy Buchanan MVP Grappler Signs with HLGU Trojans

Hannibal, MO – The Hannibal-LaGrange University wrestling program is pleased to have signed Jacob Kaibel from Troy, MO. Kaibel will graduate from Troy Buchanan High School in May of 2013. Kaibel wrestled at 152/160 lbs for the Troy Buchanan Trojans this season. Kaibel qualified for the MO State tournament and had a 35-7 record on the season. Kaibel has seen much improvement since his junior season where he had a 20-12 record.

“I have been working with Jacob since his sophomore year and I have seen him improve every season. I continued to be impressed with his character and work ethic when he attended our Trojan Wrestling Camp. Jacob is a good student and loves wrestling and he wants to continue to improve. He is 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. Kaibel also is in third place for most pins in a season for Troy Buchanan. Kaibel’s overall varsity record is 79-45. Jacob plans on wrestling 165 lbs in the 2013-14 season for the HLGU Trojans. Some of Kaibel’s honor’s include: Troy Buchanans 2013 MVP, 2013 2^nd place in the GAC, 2^nd Place in Districts, and All Conference Scholar Athlete.

 Kaibel is undecided on his major at HLGU at this time.

 Kaibel is the son of Ken and Traci Kaibel.

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

Topeka, Kan., to Host 2014 and 2015 NAIA Wrestling National Championships

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) is proud to announce that the 2014 and 2015 NAIA Wrestling National Championships will be held in Topeka, Kan., and hosted by Visit Topeka Inc., Topeka Shawnee County Sports Council and the Heart of America Athletic Conference (HAAC). The 2014 national championships are scheduled for March 7 –8, and the 2015 event will be March 6 –7. The venue is the Kansas Expocentre in the capital city of Kansas.

The Expocentre offers 210,000 square feet of event space. This venue has served as the site for numerous national sporting competitions, including the 1988 US Olympic Trials, the USA Wrestling Kansas State Folkstyle Championships and the USA Wrestling Kids Folkstyle Nationals. Click here for facility map of the Expocentre.

The Expocentre held its first event in 1987 with a sold-out concert featuring Kenny Rogers, T. Graham Brown and Ronnie Milsap. At times, there are six events hosted simultaneously in the facilities, and typically over 600 events are booked annually. Landon Arena is located inside the Expocentre and currently is home to the Topeka RoadRunners NAHL hockey team and the Kansas Koyotes APFL football team.

Topeka will welcome the wrestling national championships for the first time in the 56-year history of the event. The city is listed with a population of nearly 123,000 and located approximately 60 miles from Kansas City, Mo. The state has hosted three previous NAIA Wrestling National Championships in the city of Hays in 1980, 1990 and 1992.

“We are looking forward to having the NAIA Wrestling National Championships in Topeka for 2014 and 2015,” said Jim Carr, NAIA President and CEO. “The sport of wrestling has a strong presence in the state of Kansas. The city of Topeka has proven that they have hosted successful national events. The NAIA is excited to have this friendly community provide a wonderful experience for all NAIA student-athletes and teams.”

The Kansas chapter of USA Wrestling, which is the national governing body for wrestling in the United States, ranks No. 1 in the nation in certified coaches and No. 4 in the nation in youth participation.

Visit Topeka Inc., is a non-profit organization created to promote Topeka as a tourist destination and a great place to hold conventions, trade shows, tournaments and other sporting events. The city’s inception dates back to 1854 and is remembered for one significant piece of American history – the United States Supreme Court case between Brown v. Board of Education.

The Topeka Shawnee County Sports Council is in existence to enhance the quality of life and the economy in the Topeka community by leading the effort to develop and promote youth, amateur and collegiate sporting events.

“We are so very excited to work with the NAIA to welcome the NAIA Wrestling National Championships for 2014 and 2015 to Topeka,” said Jeffrey Alderman, Director of Sales at Visit Topeka Inc. “This outstanding competition will allow us to showcase our wonderful city to the many participants and thousands of spectators, and is a win-win for our community and the NAIA.”

The Heart of America Athletic Conference (HAAC) was founded in 1971 and is the governing body of 10 conference schools located in Iowa, Kansas, Missouri and Nebraska. Three schools have been members of the conference since its inception – Baker (Kan.), Graceland (Iowa) and Missouri Valley. Peru State (Neb.) became the newest school to join the storied conference as the Bobcats began full competition during the 2011-12 academic year. Baker, Benedictine (Kan.) and Missouri Valley sponsor the sport of wrestling in the HAAC.

The national championships consist of 10 individual weight classes. Those competitions occur during four sessions with two each day. There are currently 41 NAIA Wrestling varsity programs for the 2013 season. For a complete list of wrestling schools, click here.

Since 1937, the NAIA has administered programs and championships in proper balance with the overall educational experience. In 2000, the NAIA reaffirmed its purpose to enhance the character-building aspects of sport. Through Champions of Character, the NAIA seeks to create an environment in which every student-athlete, coach, official and spectator is committed to the true spirit of competition through five core values: integrity, respect, responsibility, sportsmanship and servant leadership.

To learn more about NAIA wrestling, click here.

 

 

Alan Grosbach

National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics

Manager of Communications and Sports Information

1200 Grand Boulevard | Kansas City, MO 64106

www.NAIA.org

Alexander, Downs Qualify for NAIA Championships for the Third Time in Their Career!

BALDWIN CITY, Kan. – Both junior Bryce Alexander (165 lb.) and junior Nathan Downs (174 lb.) earned at-large bids into the NAIA National Wrestling Championships as each fell short of an automatic berth. The two came away with fifth and sixth place finishes in their respected weight classes at the Central Qualifying Tournament, but needed a top four finish to automatically qualify for nationals.
Alexander finished the day 4-2 to place fifth at the tournament. The Maryville, Mo. native won his first match of the day in an 8-6 decision over Trevor Dice (Bethany) before falling into the consolation bracket with a second round loss to Zach Skates (Oklahoma City) by way of a 12-6 decision.
Alexander followed the loss with consecutive wins to find himself just two wins away from a third place finish. The junior pinned Tylor Pitcher (William Penn) in 2:16 and pinned William Lutz (Bacone) in 1:03 before losing for the second time in the tournament by a 4-3 decision to Gian Traverso (Missouri Valley).
Again, Alexander followed the loss with a win as he defeated Nathan Sommer (Baker) by a 7-0 decision to finish in fifth.
Downs finished with a 3-3 record to finish sixth at the tournament. The Troy, Mo. native pinned his first opponent, Alvaro Zermeno (Bacone), in 2:54 before losing a 3-2 decision, in his second round match, against eventual champion Thomas Moman (Grand View).
After falling into the consolation bracket, Downs pinned Jose Hernandez (Bacone) in 4:56 and defeated Stephen Loosbrock by way of an 8-0 major decision to draw within two wins of a third place finish. However, the junior fell to Parker Owen (Baker) in an 8-1 decision and was pinned by Teagan Franco (Oklahoma City) in 2:45 to finish with in sixth.
Both Alexander and Downs will participate as at-large selections in the NAIA National Wrestling Championships on March 1 and 2 in Des Moines, Iowa.
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

IOC Drops Wrestling From the 2020 Olympics

Many of you have seen that the IOC has decided to drop wrestling from the 2020 Olympics. I think this a terrible decision.  I hope that the IOC reconsiders and reestablishes wrestling. I remember hearing Dan Gable warning that IOC decision was a possibility as he spoke at Camp of Champs back in 2006. His message then as it is now is that we need to educate people concerning the sport of wrestling.  Mike Moyer is the executive director of the National Wrestling Coaches Association, which I am a member of along with every other college wrestling coach in America. Mike Moyer has been striving to do just what Dan Gable says need to be done, “educate”.  Mike has been proactive in educating wrestlers, coaches, and fans of wrestling about the dangers facing the future of wrestling. He has been an outspoken advocate for wrestling in America.  I know Mike and he is a good man who eats, drinks and sleeps wrestling. I will be praying for Mike and others as they seek to represent the sport that God has used to develop character and discipline in my life and the lives of wrestlers all over the world. I don’t think the IOC’s decision will be quickly overturned. In the meantime I will continue to stay positive about wrestling, work to educate others about our sport, and be committed to making wrestlers and the sport of wrestling better.

Here are some facts that Mike Moyer shared this morning.

1. High school participation has grown by over 40,000 over the past decade

2. 95 new college wrestling teams (at all levels) have been established since 1999

3. Wrestling is the 6th most popular high school boys sport with over 272,000 participants

4. There are now over 8,200 young women who wrestle in high schools and we have 21 intercollegiate women's wrestling teams 

5. The 2012 NCAA DI Wrestling Championships sold an unprecedented 112,000 tickets and wrestling is among the top 5 NCAA revenue producing championships (4 consecutive sellouts)

6. Wrestling is one of the original Olympic sports and has been included in all but one Olympic competition since 1896. Only four other sports -- track and field, cycling, gymnastics and swimming -- have been in more Games.

7. There is no doubt that a strong Olympic wrestling team is helpful in our efforts to increase participation at the grass roots, high school, and college levels.   Young wrestlers need to be able to dream of being an Olympic Champion as they develop.  For this reason, we will fully support USA Wrestling’s efforts to make sure wrestling remains as an Olympic sport.