David Taylor wins U.S. Open National Freestyle Championship/Earns Outstanding Wrestler Award and Mark Hall wins Junior Freestyle National Championship/Earns Outstanding Wrestler Award

NLWC Resident Athlete David Taylor dominated the 86 kg/189 lbs. weight class on his way to a National Title and Outstanding Wrestler award.  David defeated Richard Perry in the finals with a 10-0 technical fall.  He won by technical fall or pin over each of his 5 opponents.  With his victories this weekend, David has now won 16 consecutive matches at the Senior level.  

Also wrestling under the Nittany Lion Wrestling Club banner this weekend, Mark Hall earned a Junior Freestyle National Championship and Outstanding Wrestler Award at 74 kg/163 lbs.  Mark, the reigning World Champion at this weight class, won all six matches at the tournament by 10-0 technical fall victories.  This included a 10-0 technical fall over Iowa's Alex Marinelli in the finals.  

Other wrestlers representing the Nittany Lion Wrestling Club and placing at the U.S. Open were Frank Molinaro (2nd at 65 kg/143 lbs.), Zain Retherford (3rd at 65 kg/143 lbs.), Jason Nolf (4th at 70 kg/154 lbs.), Bo Nickal (4th at 86 kg/189 lbs.), Nico Megaludis (Quarter Finalist at 57 kg/125.5 lbs.), and Vlad Dombrovskiy (Quarter Finalist at 74 kg/163 lbs.).  In addition, Nick Lee competed for the Nittany Lion Wrestling Club, placing 5th at 63 kg/138 lbs. in the Junior Nationals.

Both Frank and Zain had outstanding tournaments, each dropping very, very close decisions to Jordan Oliver.  Jason Nolf and Bo Nickal also showed they are among the top competitors at the senior level.  Jason lost a one point decision (9-8) to 2015 World Bronze Medalist James Green in the semi finals, while Bo beat several top American contenders on his way to a fourth place finish. 

To see complete results, visit Flowrestling.com.  

Congratulations to all of the wrestlers who represented the Nittany Lion Wrestling Club this weekend!