Courtesy of NIU Media Relations
The Northern Illinois University wrestling team will conclude its week-long intrasquad tournament with Huskie Wrestle-Offs Friday in Victor E. Court at the Convocation Center. The first match begins at 7 p.m.
"We've got a pretty solid core from last season and we want to build on that," NIU coach Dave Grant said. "The idea with wrestle-offs is it's one segment to make the team. It's not the only way to make it."
Wrestle-offs is one of three ways a wrestler can make the starting line-up. The second is to place higher than their opponent at the Huskies' first meet of the season, the Michigan State Open, Nov. 15. If necessary, another wrestle-off will be held to determine who makes the starting line up. It also gives the Huskies to get matches in and to get the team acclimated to competing before the season begins in East Lansing, Mich.
It also provides fans a chance to get a glimpse at this year's squad. The Huskies feature two NCAA qualifiers from a year in Tristen DeShazer and Bryan Deutsch. Deutsch was the 2009 Mid-American Conference champion at 157. While the Huskies have a solid nucleus returning, there is competition at every weight class.
Due to the men's basketball game there will be a $3 charge for parking.
Wrestle-Offs Match-Ups
125 - Izzy Montemayor vs. Chris Heading
133 - Tristen DeShazer vs. Zach Neilbert
141 - Vince Castillo vs. Patrick McLemore
149 - Steve Zimmerman vs. Dan Ruettiger
157 - Bryan Deutsch vs. Michael Smith
165 - Mason True vs. Vince Fairbairn
174 - Derrick Yant vs. TBA
184 - Zach Benzio vs. Shane Rosenberry
197 - Scott Penny vs. Trevor Parlberg
HWT - Dakota Greenhaw vs. Curtis Blaydes
