Sooners Win Title at Brockport

Nov. 8, 2008

BROCKPORT, N.Y. – The University of Oklahoma wrestling team claimed its 10th straight team title and two Sooners won individual crowns on Saturday in Brockport N.Y., at the Brockport/Oklahoma Gold Classic.

Oklahoma, ranked No. 20 nationally, topped an impressive field, as Edinboro (ranked No. 15) and Central Michigan (No. 18) placed second and third on the day, respectively. Kent State, Hofstra, Army, Rutgers and Brockport rounded out the field of eight.

“This was a strong performance for the Sooners,” head coach Jack Spates said. “The competition was upgraded considerably and to win this tournament is significant.”

Zack Bailey at 141 pounds and Eric Lapotsky at 197 pounds each went 4-0 on their way to titles. Redshirt sophomore Bailey recorded two major decisions and beat Eric Kruger of Central Michigan to place first. Lapotsky, a junior from Mt. Carmel, Pa., posted three falls against opponents and defeated Richard Starks of Army in the final by a 4-1 decision.

FINAL BRACKETS

OU junior Shane Vernon and redshirt sophomore Jeff James each placed second at 157 and 174 pounds, respectively. James' day was highlighted by a semi-final victory over 2007 All-American Mike Miller of Central Michigan. Joey Fio (125 pounds), Kyle Terry (149 pounds) and Pat Flynn (184 pounds) placed third.

Will Rowe (149 pounds), Chad Terry (157 pounds), Kyle Bergstedt (197 pounds) and Nathan Fernandez (HWT) all placed fourth. Ryan Smith at 165 pounds placed fifth and David Armstrong placed sixth at 133 pounds.

“We showed a lot of promise today but there is a long way to go,” Spates said. “This was a good opening for us and I am proud of the fight in our guys today.”

The Sooners will open dual competition at home next Thursday, Nov. 13, at 7 p.m., against Central Oklahoma at McCasland Field House.

Team Standings

1. Oklahoma (140 points)
2. Edinboro (123 points)
3. Central Michigan (113.5 points)
4. Kent State (108 points)
5. Hofstra (104 points)
6. Army (77 points)
7. Rutgers (56.5 points)
8. Brockport (8 points)

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