Fernandez Garners Big 12 Honor

Dec. 15, 2008

NORMAN, Okla. – Coming off a dominant performance at the Big 12/Pac-10 Challenge in San Luis Obispo, Calif., Sooner sophomore Nathan Fernandez was named Big 12 Wrestler of the Week, the conference announced Monday.

Fernandez recorded a three-match sweep at the California tournament, pinning two of three opponents, including No. 4-ranked Mitch Monteiro of Cal-Bakersfield early in the second period (3:19). The Lawton, Oklahoma, native also recorded a fall versus Kelan Bragg (6:55) of Cal Poly and won by a 14-6 major decision over Kurt Klimek of Cal-Fullerton.

“I am really proud of Nathan because he works so hard and always comes to wrestle,” head coach Jack Spates said. “He was a key factor for us in defeating Oklahoma State and played a key role for us this past weekend in California. Nathan always gives himself a chance to win.”

After his successful weekend, the Lawton, Okla., native now owns an 11-4 overall record this season and a 6-1 dual tally. The No. 12th-ranked Sooners bested Cal Poly (35-7), Cal-Bakersfield (26-12) and Cal-Fullerton (29-7) to improve to 7-0.

The undefeated Sooners are off to their best start since 1985, when Stan Abel's squad began 10-0. The Sooners are also 1-0 in the Big 12 for the first time since 1993. The team will break for the holidays until returning to action on Jan. 3, at the Lonestar Duals in Arlington, Texas.

University of Oklahoma Athletics

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