(Editor's note: University of Providence media release)
HAVRE – The University of Providence men's wrestling team opened its season with a 21-13 win over in-state rival Montana State-Northern Thursday evening.
Joel Avila, Eli Walston, Chris Mesa, Brock Rodrigues, Jordan Komac, Alan Badley and KC Buday all won their matches to secure the victory.
"It was an outstanding effort from the kids," UP head coach Steve Komac said. "From the very first match all the way through the dual, it was just an outstanding effort."
The big win of the night came from Walston, who defeated NAIA defending 125-pound national champion Nick Kunz 6-5 in Thursday's 133-pound match.
"That was a big win," Komac said. "Highly ranked kid, returning national champion. He's tough."
The team in general was enthusiastic and excited to compete, something that Komac believes helped his team persevere through tough moments.
"Getting a win was obviously great," Komac said. "I think, though, that there was almost no focus on that. We're just so happy to be on that mat. We're so appreciative of all the people at our school that have helped us get there. It was just exciting to get on the mat and wrestle. That was the most important thing that happened (Thursday)."
The Argos and Lights both head to North Dakota for the Dickinson State Duals on Saturday.
Full Results
125 pounds – No. 19 Joel Avila def. Kaleb Frank (6-1)
133 – Eli Walston def. No. 4 Nick Kunz (6-5)
141 – Chris Mesa def. Carl Cronin (9-4)
149 – Brock Rodrigues def. Dylan Veis (6-4)
157 – Connor Herris def. Boone Giulio (14-10)
165 - No. 4 Jordan Komac def. Devin Crawford (8-3)
174 - No. 16 Chase Short def. Bridger Hall (14-3)
184 – Alan Badley def. Steeler French (7-5)
197 - No. 1 Isaac Bartel def. Quinn Whitmus (fall)
285 - KC Buday def. Rylan Moldenhauer (3-1)
