The Centenary Cyclones wrestling team took to the mats today at the highly competitive D3 National Tournament Championships, where three talented Cyclones represented the team with pride. Though the results weren't in their favor, with each wrestler falling in their opening bouts, they attempted a path forward in the tournament through the wrestlebacks, offering a chance to battle back for a podium finish.

Head Coach John Garriques and his team knew they were up against some of the best competition in the country, and each Cyclone gave their all in their matches. Despite the losses, there were valuable experiences gained on the biggest stage in Division III wrestling. 

In the first matchup of the day, Joey Innamorato fought hard but ultimately lost by major decision, 11-1 to Mark Samuel (25-4) from Roanake. It was a tough outing for the Cyclone, but Innamorato showed resilience and determination throughout the contest. Despite the loss, the experience of wrestling at this level will serve as motivation for future growth. In the consolation bracket, Joey lost by fall ending a brilliant season for the Cyclone. 

Xavier Pena also faced a tough opponent, losing by decision, 7-0 to 4th seeded Matt Randolph from Augsburg. Pena showed a lot of heart in the match, but couldn't quite find his rhythm against a skilled adversary. Even in defeat, Pena's effort wasn't lost on his coaches and teammates, and he remains an integral part of the team's success moving forward. In the consolation 1st round, Xavier won by decision 6-1 over Starr from NC. He faced Glynn from RIT in his next bout and faced a tough loss SV-1 4-1 to finish his terrific career in a Cyclone uniform. 

Danny Haws had a similarly tough challenge, falling by major decision, 12-2 to Dominick Mallinder from Wisconsin-Whitewater. Haws battled through the entire match but couldn't overcome his opponent's pace and strategy. Despite the tough result, Haws, like his teammates, will use this experience to fuel his future performances. In the Consolation round, Haws came up short in a 3-1 Decision to Torress from Ithica. 

While the losses were difficult to swallow, the Cyclones showed terrfic reseleince and effort in the D3 National Tournament Championships. The wrestlebacks didn't offer the opportunity for the Pena and his teammates to fight there way back into the mix, however with his tenacity and coaching from Coach Garriques, they have very much to proud of this season.

The Cyclones will regroup and take advantage of the second chance they've been given in the tournament, with the chance to show that their journey is far from over. With a strong mindset and the right adjustments, they will continue to battle with everything they've got as they aim for a podium finish.

Stay tuned for what is sure to be an exciting continuation of Centenary wrestling's journey at the D3 National Tournament!