The Elizabethtown College men’s wrestling team had their home opener Wednesday, Nov. 7 in Thompson Gymnasium against #7 York College.
The Blue Jays had an upset victory against the Spartans last season where they won 22-19, but this time the results were in York’s favor. The Jays fell 42-0 against the Spartans’ four nationally ranked brawlers according to the National Wrestling Coaches Association; three of York’s wrestlers ranked by d3wrestlers.com.
“Due to being new to the team I want to gain as much experience as possible and be helpful to the team,” first-year Hunter Beaudet said.
Third period rallies were crucial to York, as they capitalized when they needed in order to earn the win. Sophomore Austin Jones had a 6-2 lead, but lost it when his opponent scored a takedown and a four-point nearfall to end the period.
Sophomore Josh McLaughlin came from behind two separate times to tie the match, but could not earn the points by the end of the period. The Jays also participated in the Fall Brawl at Ursinus College Nov. 10. Junior Colton Rex placed third, while senior Cole Cameron made it to the consolation final.
Cameron’s accomplishment of making it to the consolation final could not be decided due to a NCAA regulation of no more than six matches per player that both Cameron and his prospective opponent had reached.
Sophomore Tyler Mentzer advanced to the semifinals, but fell short placing in the top four. Beaudet also went 3-2 along with first-year Colton Shriner, who earned a 6:57 pin against an opponent from York. Junior Max Rhoden made it to the quarterfinals in his bracket along with junior Dayne Ross, who registered a pin in just 4:47.
“We improve every day on and off the mat. No matter what struggles anyone is going through, the team is here for each other,” Cameron said. “We have been making tremendous strides each competition. It’s great to watch these young men improve and amazing they have welcomed me to the Blue Jay family.”
The men will attend the Marine Corps Star City Open next Sunday, Nov. 10 in Salem, Virginia.
