Sooners Compete in USA Wrestling

NORMAN, Okla. - The University of Oklahoma had three wrestlers compete over the weekend at the U.S. World Team Trials of Wrestling, held at the Hilton Coliseum in Ames, Iowa, on June 18-19.

Sam Hazewinkel was the only current Sooner wrestling in the trials. Also competing were former Sooners Michael Lightner (1998-2001) and Jared Frayer (1999-2002).

Michael Lightner was the Men's freestyle 60kg champion. Lightner defeated Nate Gallick 1-0, 1-0 for the win.

“It feels great being part of the team. I knew I had to wrestle hard and make my mind up to be the most determined guy out there,” said Lightner.

Lightner missed last year's trials due to injury.

“I tore my ACL last year and my goal was just to get back on the mat,” added Lightner. “It's a different perspective being gone six months. Wrestling is something I've done my whole life. Coming back, I fell in love with it again.”

Frayer competed in the freestyle 66kg class, he was defeated by Chris Bono.

Hazewinkel, a 2005 All-American competed in the Greco-Roman 55kg weight class and was defeated by Lindsey Durlacher.

Lightner and the rest of the winners qualified to compete for the U.S. Team at the World Championships in Budapest, Hungary on September 26 through October 2.

University of Oklahoma Athletics

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