Holland Reporter

Grand Valley State University's men's wrestling team, ranked eighth nationally, secured a sixth-place finish at the 2024 NWCA National Dual Championships. The event took place in Cedar Falls, Iowa, on the Northern Iowa campus. The Lakers emerged as the only unseeded team to conclude in the top eight after facing five top-20 teams and recording a 3-2 win-loss tally.

In a critical consolation semifinal match against Mary, Grand Valley State clinched a narrow 20-17 victory. The decisive moment came during the 285-pound match, which extended into overtime. Junior Carter Blough secured the win by obtaining a stalling point in overtime, pushing his opponent throughout the match. This victory was crucial for Grand Valley State to ensure their position among the top six.

The Lakers initially trailed with Mary leading through three consecutive victories. However, junior Chris Donathan's fall at 149 pounds initiated Grand Valley's comeback. Subsequent key performances included Josh Kenny's major decision win and Brayden Mirjavadi's fall over #17 Donte Roggio at 184 pounds. Wyatt Miller tied the score with a victory over #13 Matt Kaylor at 197 pounds.

Following this success, Grand Valley faced Parkside for fifth place but succumbed to a substantial 43-3 defeat. Looking ahead, GVSU is set to participate in the Gannon Duals scheduled for January 18 in Erie, Pennsylvania.