Weitzel Named Academic First Team

March 4, 2008

NORMAN, Okla. - Senior Joshua Weitzel of the No. 14 Oklahoma Sooner wrestling squad was announced as a first-team selection on the 2008 Academic All-Big 12 Wrestling Team, the Big 12 Conference announced Tuesday.

This marks the second straight year Weitzel has been honored as a first-team selection. The Lincoln University, Pa., native is one of two wrestlers in the conference who boasts a 4.0 GPA (Tyler McCormick of Missouri). Weitzel graduated in December with a B.S. in Education.

"The academic aspect of being a student-athlete is something I take pride in," Weitzel said. "I have set high goals in both wrestling and academics and I work very hard to achieve them."

Weitzel was also recently honored by the conference as the Big 12 Wrestler of the Week after his performance against Oklahoma State. The senior pinned Jack Jensen of then-No. 3 OSU to begin the match, scoring bonus points that ultimately decided the 18-15 final score by the Sooners.

Nominated by each institution's director of student-athlete support services and the media relations offices, the wrestling academic all-league team consisted of 13 first team members combined with four on the second team. First team members consist of those who have maintained a 3.20 or better GPA, and the second team are those who have a 3.00 to 3.19 GPA.

To qualify student-athletes must maintain a 3.00 GPA or higher either cumulative or the two previous semesters and must have participated in 60 percent of his team's scheduled contests. Freshmen and transfers are not eligible in their first year of academic residence. Senior student-athletes who have participated for a minimum of two years and meet all the criteria except percent of participation are also eligible.

Riding a two-match winning streak, Weitzel and the Sooners will carry their momentum into the postseason this Saturday, March 8, at the Big 12 Championships in Stillwater, Okla.

University of Oklahoma Athletics

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