Wrestling
10-26-09
The Grand Canyon University wrestling team's theme for the 2009-10 season is "Omaha or Bust," because the Division II National Championships will be held in that Midwestern city on March 12-13, and if results from Saturday's California Baptist University Open are any indication the Antelopes could be well on their way to accomplishing their very lofty goal.
GCU had more individual champions -- four -- than any other team in the tournament.
Junior Todd Wilcox (Sacramento, CA/Sierra College) won the 133-pound weight class with a 4-2 decision over Chauncey Philipps (unattached -- California Baptist).
"Overall, he wrestled very solid," GCU head coach R.C. LaHaye (pictured, right) said. "He needs to attack more, but it was a great first tournament for Todd."
Redshirt senior Stephen Towne (Phoenix, AZ/Menlo College) captured the 165-pound title with a 3-1 decision over Preston Brown of California Baptist.
"He set the stage for a great senior year," LaHaye said. "He dominated every match. He needs to keep improving every day."
Redshirt sophomore Victor Carazo (Modesto, CA/Modesto Junior College) and Mike Fucci (unattached -- Grand Canyon) were co-champions at 174 pounds. Fucci defeated returning All-American Lamar Reed of California Baptist in the Championship Semi-Finals.
"Victor also dominated everyone," LaHaye said. "It's the second year in a row he has won this tournament. It was a very good showing for Victor."
LaHaye said it was a good first tournament. But, the third-year coach added, "We still have a lot of work to do."
The GCU wrestling team hosts the Purple/Black Dual on Nov. 4 at 7 p.m.
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