Buffalo Open and N.C. State Open

The Buckeye wrestlers opened the season on Sunday, November 2 with the Buffalo Open and then followed that by wrestling in the N.C. State Open on Saturday, November 8. The Buckeyes had crowned six champions at the Buffalo Open and several others placers. Reece Humphrey started the season off in a big way by claiming the 133 pound title. Jason Johnstone won the title at 157 pounds, while fellow 157 pound wrestler Sean Nemec finished third. Ohio State did not have to wait long for the next two titles as Sophomore Colt Sponseller won the title at 165 pounds and Dave Rella won the title at 174 pounds. Cody Gardner, a four time state champion from Virginia who had 186 prep victories, won the title for Ohio State at 197 pounds and Corey Morrison won the title at 285 pounds. Nikko Triggas claimed third place at 125 pounds. Seven Buckeyes advanced to the finals of the N.C. State Open on November 8. Winning championships were Reece Humphrey at 133 pounds, Jason Johnstone at 157 pounds, Colt Sponseller at 165 pounds and Cody Gardner at 197 pounds. Also reaching the finals were Lance Palmer at 149 pounds, who lost to #3 Darrion Caldwell of N.C. State. Wes Bergman and Corey Morrison also finished second at 184 pounds and 285 pounds. Finishing third was Jason Cook at 197 pounds, Nikko Triggas at 125 pounds and Sean Nemec at 157 pounds. John Hiles finished 4th at heavyweight. It was a great opening two weekends for the wrestling Buckeyes and I look forward to what this season holds.