Men’s and Women’s Wrestling Face Tough Tests

LINDENWOOD, Mo. – The Eureka men's wrestling team faced Division I SIUE on Saturday in Edwardsville, while the women competed at the Lindenwood Duals against Division I Lindenwood and No. 4 nationally ranked McKendree on Sunday. Both teams were ultimately defeated but represented Eureka well and gained valuable experience.

"We knew the road ahead would be tough, and we did our best to prepare for it," said Eureka head coach Eric Biehl. "This 'punch in the mouth' will only contribute to our growth and help us as we progress this season."

On the men's side, Trevor Hedges had the strongest showing for Eureka at 133 pounds. He secured a takedown against his opponent but ultimately lost by major decision, 14-3.

On the women's side, Sofia Kawano, Alex Parks, and McKenzie Cook led the way. Kawano, wrestling at 103 pounds, began her day with a win by fall in just over 5 minutes. She lost her next match by fall, followed by a forfeit loss, but ended the day with two forfeit wins.

Cook started with a loss by technical fall, 16-4, at 145 pounds. She rebounded with a quick win by fall in 36 seconds, followed by another win by fall in just under two minutes. In her final match of the day, she lost by fall after 4:30.

Parks, competing at 180 pounds, began with two losses by fall. She then won by forfeit and earned a 4-2 decision victory in a close match. Her day concluded with another forfeit win.

UP NEXT

The Red Devils now have a few weeks to learn and improve before their next competition. Coach Biehl says the team is eager to prepare for their upcoming challenges. The men will return to action on Saturday, Dec. 7, at the MSOE Open, while the women will compete again on Sunday, Dec. 15, at the North Central Open.