Junior Bryan Deutsch opens competition at the 2010 NCAA Wrestling Championships on Thursday when he faces No. 4 seed Cyler Sanderson of Penn State at the Qwest Center in Omaha, Neb.
Deutsch, who earned an at-large selection in the 157-pound weight class, will be competing in the morning session, which starts at 11 a.m.
“It’s what he’s worked all year for,” NIU coach Dave Grant said of Deutsch’s NCAA bid. “We’re really proud of him. He’s been a leader for us all year, picking up some big wins. He’s been training all year and he’s ready to go.”
Deutsch’s selection marks the 39th consecutive season Northern Illinois has sent a grappler to the NCAAs, and the second-straight appearance for Deutsch. Both Deutsch and Grant feel his experience from last season will benefit Deutsch this year.
“I’m pretty excited about it,” Deutsch said. “I went there last year and I was kind of surprised. I didn’t know what was going to happen. This year, I’ll know what to expect. I expect to do better.”
“It’s huge. The first time you’re there, you’re looking around trying to get a feel for the place,” Grant said. “ He’s been there already and knows what to expect. We’re just excited about his opportunity to get on that national stand.”
Deutsch, who has amassed a team-leading 20-6 record in 2010, will be facing a familiar opponent in Sanderson. The two faced off in a first round match of the 2009 NCAA Championships with Sanderson, who was wrestling for Iowa State at the time, posted a 9-6 victory. Despite facing Sanderson last season, he doesn’t feel it gives him an advantage.
