The University of Wyoming wrestling team is preparing to compete in the Reno Tournament of Champions this Sunday, starting at 10 a.m. at the Reno Events Center.
This year, the Cowboys are taking a different approach, with only a few starters participating, alongside several backups and first-year wrestlers. Although the tournament is an annual event for the team, head coach Mark Branch sees this as an important opportunity for those who haven’t seen much mat time this season. “It’s a great chance for these guys to compete and showcase the hard work they’ve put in,” Branch said. “Injuries can happen, and we need to ensure we have guys ready to step in when needed next semester.”
Riley Davis (174), recovering from an injury that sidelined him for part of last season and the start of this one, will get more experience. Davis is currently 0-3, with two losses coming against ranked opponents. Kevin Zimmer (HWT), with a 2-6 record, will also compete after facing tough competition, including several top-five ranked wrestlers.
Branch added, “We’ll have a few starters there, and it’ll give them a chance to work on what they’ve been focusing on. Some of our guys have had a brutal schedule, so I’m hoping we can dominate some of our competition.”
Several Cowboys are vying for starting spots and will have the chance to compete directly against others in similar situations. Ethan Ducca (174) and Quayin Short (174), both returning from injuries, will look to prove themselves, while Sam Mitchell (HWT), who was an NCAA qualifier at Buffalo in the 197-pound weight class, will compete at his new weight.
Additional wrestlers seeking valuable experience include David Saenz (133), Josh Kyle (133), Brett McIntosh (165), Warren Carr (157), and Sloan Swan (157). A group of freshmen—Antonio Avila (149), John Alden (141), Christian Herrera (141), and Tucker Bowen (125)—will also be making the trip to Reno.
The tournament will conclude with placing matches at 7 p.m. on Sunday.
After Reno, Wyoming’s starting squad will return to action in Iowa at the Soldier Salute Tournament in Coralville, Iowa, on December 29-30.
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