Author: marklongmainstream (Page 13 of 307)

As a team, taking out No.7 Missouri in 2023 was a huge precedence for the seven NCAA qualifiers returning this year. With Legendary National Champion Parker Keckeisen and Big 12 Champion Ryder Downey back in the saddle, they have a real shot at carrying UNI into the top 10.

125–Trevor Anderson not having the best season last year posting a 10-13 season, there were glimmers of hope as a redshirt as he took out No. 1 Jakob Camacho (NC State) at the Cliff Keen Las Vegas Invitational and No. 27 Nick Babin (Columbia) in his debut, he has a chance to prove himself and separate himself from a 7- dual record last year.

133- Julian Farber has a chance to step up this year as well, with a 20-11 record at 133 placing 7th at the Big Ten Championships, this could be a turn around year for him. With four top 30 wins and an upset of No. 12 Nic Bouzakis (Ohio State) at the Collegiate Duals last year, he could be a top ten guy this year.

141- High expectations for Cael Happel this year, showcasing a 23-9 record and going 3-2 in the NCAA Championships as a No.7 seed shows he has what it takes. Without a question their man at 141. Last season Cael fell just short of reaching the podium.

149- Struggling a little bit at the 149 this could go one of two ways, Stay with Adam Allard who competed in the Big 12 Championships putting a 3-6 dual record on the board last year as a redshirt sophomore. With a 6-10 record overall, will they try Ethan Basile who moved up from 141 who did very well as a freshman three years ago, coming off of a covid diagnosis to beat Charlie Klepps (Iowa State) and Nick Termini (Northern Illinois) in the Big 12 Championships show us he could have better luck at this weight. Colin Realbuto

157- Ryder Downey holds the crown at 157, being the 2024 Big 12 champion there is no need for anyone else. 23-6 record overall and going 3-2 at the NCAA Championships as the 5th seed, expectations of a big season are at hand. Could he take out Jacori Teemer?

165- Jack Thomsen will take the 165, covering a 18-9 record as a redshirt junior last year. He placed 6th at the Big 12 championships last year. Also An NCAA qualifier beating Jake Logan (Lehigh) at the NCAA Championships proves he holds this spot.

174- Jared Simma took a 28th seed at the NCAA Championships last year shocking the world with an upset against 5th seed Philip Conigliaro (Harvard) and Tyler Eischens the 21st seed in the first two rounds. With an 18-10 overall record and 9-5 in duals, he will be the starter, there is no reason to think otherwise.

184- Parker Keckeisen is the most undisputed position at UNI. The four time Big 12 Champion, Dan Hodge Trophy finalist and NCAA National Champion posted a perfect 31-0 and has been the programs first undefeated national champion since Bill Dotson way back in 1963. Could he repeat a perfect season? Another national title? We are excited to watch this year.

197-Wyatt Voelker had a fantastic year last season going 20-8 and 2-3 at the NCAA tournament. Back for his sophomore season Voelker has potential  to have a breakout year.

285- Adam Ahrendsen has a career 39-21 record competing mostly at 197 lbs. Jose Valdez is a bit of an unknown but he is a NJCAA National Champion with a career record of 40-10. I expect both of these 2 to see mat time this season, and its hard to say who will finish the year as the starter.

There is a lot to be excited about with Parker Keckeisen, Ryder Downey, and Cael Happel returning. This is a solid program with a chance for something special in the 24-25 season.

It will be an interesting year at certain weight classes for the buckeyes, up this point in time they are returning all of their starters and returning three All-Americans. The Tom Ryan era has brought the program 73 All-Americans with 13 Individual National Championships with a 213-68 dual record, its safe to say they will still be a top contender in the NCAA’s this year.

125- This weight class makes things interesting, with Vinny Kilkeary barely squeaking out a loss against Braeden Davis on a controversial call, losing 4-3. This match separated kilkeary from Brendan McCrone who is the starter, and more or less a .500 wrestler going 18-13 last season. Kilkeary is now off of redshirt , and I expect him to earn the starting spot.

133- Nic Bouzakis posting a decent year going 25-11 in 23-24 had some incredible wins but accompanied by some very questionable losses. Getting upset by Brode Teske (Iowa) by reversal at the buzzer 13-15 in the NCAA’s. But, losing to Daton Fix (OSU) 5-4 was not so questionable. Fix only won on the ensuing escape. He beat All-Americans Aaron Nagao and Kai Orine showing he is a threat in the tournament. He is Ohio State’s clear frontrunner.

141- Jesse Mendez has the starting position without question, going 29-2 and winning his first NCAA title. I expect a big year for Mendez as  he looks to repeat!

149- Coming up just short of All-American honors in the 23-24, the 6th year senior Dylan D’Emilio is also a wildcard play and a .500 wrestler in the NCAA’s going 10-9 overall. Does he have a chance to return to the podium this year? Fans are hopeful for a top 5 in the Big Ten Championships at least.

157- At 16-5 before his injury in January, Paddy Gallaghers only losses were to All-Americans and has shown he can compete at a higher level beating out Trevor Chumbley and Ryder Downey he also lost to Downey. If he’s fully recovered he has the potential to all-american this season.

165-It looks like Sammy Sasso is back after being shot in the leg and missing all of last season. Bryce Hepner is also in the lineup after an up and down season last year. Bryce had a 13-7 record in the 23-24 season. I have a hard to predicting this one. I got to think that if Sasso is back, he fully believes he is capable of winning it all. No other reason to tarnish his legacy.

174-Rocco Welsh returns to the line up after a brilliant true freshman season. Finishing as NCAA runner up in a bracket featuring 3 NCAA Champions. Carson Kharchia is also in the lineup and if healthy is a strong all-american contender. With the 174 weight class stronger than ever, I expect Welsh to redshirt and Kharchia to finish out his college career.

184- Ryder Rogotzke seems to hold the 184 with an indifferent season last year going 20-10 but with a staggering 16 pins. He went 4-2 at the Big Ten Tournament. Last Season he had a signature win over Bernie Traux.

197- The national qualifier went 15-11 in the 23-24 season, Luke Geog needs to show some improvement in the NCAA tournament. Going 0-2, losing to Zack Glazier and Silas Allred are not terrible losses for a redshirt freshman.

285-Nick Feldman showed a 29-8 performance last year with a 5th place finish at the NCAA’s last year, he had some great wins against Tase Ghadiali and Cohlton Schultz. Losing to Greg Kerkvliet, he’s expected to make some big improvements this summer, will it be enough to become a finalist in the NCAA’s?

I could see this team with 5 maybe 6 all-americans and 2 NCAA finalists. Not a bad team at all solid up and down the line up. Can they crack the top 5? I’m not sure.

The Fighting Illini return for another season of wrestling. As usual expectations are low the squad. Although a few bright spots on the team exist.

125-Ramazan Attasauov It appears that Illinois is set to remedy their 125 lb problem. Ramazan was a former Iowa state wrestler, who Coach Poeta convinced to come to Illinois. He hasn’t wrestled in a while, but if we look at 2022-2023 he posted an 11-5 record over all. With one year of eligibility remaining, Ramazan will lead the team into battle.

133-Lucas Byrd Illinois fans waiting for the return of the 2X All American Lucas Byrd are excited to see him back on the mat after redshirting last season. During the 22-23 season Byrd went 30-6. Kole Brower will also see mat time and is the future of the weight class.

141- Definitely contention here between Danny Pucino and Will Bassinger, Pucino going 15-12 overall and an NCAA Championships qualifier Peota recognizing Bassingers hunger for the position said, “There’s a potential threat there,” recognizing Bassingers will and extra work, targeting the starting spot. Hopefully this will motivate Pucino to have a better year. I expect both wrestlers to get mat time, and its hard to say who earns the spot at Big 10s.

149- Kannon Webster looks to carry the team this year, coming off a redshirt season in 23-24, he went 20-1 and defeated No. 5 Dylan D’Emilio (Oklahoma State) in his very first dual appearance. Overall going 6-0 in duals and 2-0 in the conference, this is a steady weight class for Illinois. I look for Webster to be a top 5 guy by the end of the season.

157- Jason Kraisser coming out of the transfer portal this year from Iowa State did fairly well with a 15-5 overall record and a 2-1 in duals. Looking to revamp a little after the weight class in 23-24 couldn’t get over .500, Kraisser will come in and fill this void well. He is a former NCAA qualifier and looks to return to his winning ways in Champaign.

165- The 165 is kind of a toss up between Braeden Scoles and Caden Ernd, Scoles going 10-4 last season is moving up from the 157. Peota was asked if there is a gap here, and he responded with, “they are both in a position to surprise people.” Ernd posted a 6-4 overall and 1-2 in duals last year.  As of now this looks like a big hole in the lineup.

174-Danny Braunagel is back after taking an Olympic Redshirt last season. He went 4-0 while redshirting and was an NCAA Qualifier in 22-23. Overall solid wrestler, could have a breakout year.

184- Edmond Ruth The biggest focus on this weight is Edmond Ruth, with an overall record of 64-12 and 23-4 in duals, the 2X NCAA qualifier and last years Big Ten Champion, needs to be a little more aggressive this year, Peota said, “he needs to be more aggressive in the areas that he’s good, with a hand around the waist there’s no chance of an opponent not being put on the mat.” Can he make top 5 this year?

197- Zac Braunagel is another big position for Illinois, taking an Olympic redshirt last season, the year before went 25-9 overall and 9-4 in duals. He’s a 4X NCAA qualifier, and 2X round of 12 finisher.  Peota says he’s excited to return to folkstyle. Illinois should see some good numbers from him this year.

285- Luke Luffman, a 2X NCAA qualifier looks to hold the 285 again, with an 8-3 overall and 4-2 in duals is the only guy at this weight above .500. Injury cut his season short just before the Big Ten duals, the question always is, has he recovered fully.

Looking fairly good this year, are they a top ten team? Possibly. I see a few all-americans on the team, with Webster and Ruth being the leaders.

Penn State has been the team to beat for a long time now. Winning 3 straight NCAA titles in 3 years! Can they make it 4 straight? Lets take a look. Breaking an NCAA Tournament record with 8 All-Americans and 4 NCAA champs all while under the leadership of Cael Sanderson. Unbelievable numbers with Josh Barr, Levi Haines, and Greg Kerkvliet having undefeated seasons, who can come against this team?

125-Braeden Davis had an outstanding freshman year winning the Big 10 Championship, and falling just short of becoming an all-american. Even with all that success, I don’t expect to see him as the starter this year. Not at 125 anyway. At 125 I believe we will see U20 World Champion Luke Lilledahl get the nod. Luke is the real deal, and will be a serious contender this year. Robert Howard and Gary Steen will also see mat time.

133-Aaron Nagao Is a talented wrestler and former all-american. I expect Nagao to get the starting spot here. However Davis will also contend for the spot. Either wrestler is capable of reaching the podium. Ultimately I think Davis ends up redshirting.

141-Beau Bartlett is a returning NCAA finalist and is back for his senior season. Anything else than a national title will be a disappointment for Beau.

149-Shayne Van Ness had a stellar freshman year, but missed last season while having knee surgery. I expect Shane to see limited action until the Big 10 tournament. It will be interesting to see how he wrestles after recovering from injury. During the 22-23 season Van Ness finished 24-7 and had an impressive run at the national tournament, going 5-1 and finishing 3rd.

157-Tyler Kasak filled in for Van Ness last season at 149 and had an outstanding season, earning all-american honors with a 3rd place finish. Word on the street is that he is walking around at 168 and will likely be competing at 157 this season. Alex Facundo has certified at 157 this year as well, and I expect him to get the nod and Kasak to redshirt.

165-Mitchell Mesenbrink did absolutely phenomenal in his freshman year with a staggering 26-1 season losing only to David Carr (Iowa State) in the NCAA finals I expect Mesenbrink to have very few challenges this season and fully expect him to cruise to his first NCAA title.

174-Levi Haines The defending 157 lb NCAA Champion, is moving up 2 weight classes here after out growing his former weight class. Levi is an absolute stud, but 174 is also completely loaded this year.  I expect a stronger and more aggressive Haines this season. Last year he was drained making the cut to 157.

184-Carter Starocci returns chasing history, looking to become the first ever 5X NCAA Champion. While Carter appears to be the odds on favorite Parker Keckeisen is a formidable opponent. Zack Ryder will also be in the lineup, however I expect him to redshirt.

197-Josh Barr had an impressive 15-0 record last year while redshirting. Josh recently competed in the U20 World Championships, where he earned a Silver Medal.  Barr is a very talented wrestler, however he will be wrestling up a weight from his natural class at 184.

285-Greg Kerkvliet is the defending NCAA Champion and will hold down this weight for the Nittany Lions all season. I could see Greg winning his second title however I would be surprised to see him anywhere in the top 4.

Once again PSU brings out a loaded team and is a heavy favorite to win a fourth straight team title. This team has a realistic chance of having 10 all-americans.

Located at 101 Cave Hill Road, Luray, VA 22835, Luray Caverns is an awe-inspiring underground world that has captivated visitors for centuries. This massive cave system, discovered in 1878, is a must-visit destination for anyone fascinated by nature’s splendor. For more information, click here.

As you embark on the guided tour, which lasts approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, you’ll be mesmerized by the sheer scale and beauty of the caverns. The tour takes you through towering chambers, majestic stalactites, and shimmering pools of water. With a constant temperature of 54°F (12°C) year-round, the cave provides a comfortable environment for exploration.

Luray Caverns is committed to accessibility, offering handicap-accessible pathways and transportation for visitors with mobility impairments. However, it’s recommended to call ahead or check the website to confirm arrangements. Reservations are not required, but they’re recommended during peak season to ensure a spot on the tour.

As you delve deeper into the caverns, you’ll uncover the rich history of this natural wonder. From ancient Native American artifacts to early explorers’ signatures, the cave’s walls whisper stories of the past. The caverns’ unique formations, crafted over millions of years, will leave you in awe of the geological forces that shaped this underground marvel.

Throughout the tour, knowledgeable guides will regale you with tales of the cave’s discovery, its fascinating geology, and the myths surrounding this subterranean world. You’ll also have the opportunity to explore the caverns’ many wonders, including the Great Stalacpipe Organ, a one-of-a-kind musical instrument that utilizes the cave’s natural formations to produce enchanting melodies.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, or simply seeking an unforgettable experience, Luray Caverns is an absolute must-visit destination. With its breathtaking beauty, rich history, and commitment to accessibility, this natural wonder is sure to leave you spellbound and inspired.

For more of the best adventures in the United States, click here. For the best nearby parks and amazing locations, click here. For the best Hotels, Resorts, and Vacation Homes, click here.