Wrestling Represented at Olympic Trials

April 19, 2012

Olympic Trials
Location	Iowa City, Iowa
Date	April 21-22
Event Info	Headquarters \| Schedule

NORMAN, Okla. - Five former Sooner wrestlers will compete for a chance to participate in the 2012 Olympics when they take to the mats at the Olympic Trials in Iowa City, Iowa, April 21-22 at the Carver-Hawkeye Arena.

The five former Oklahoma stars - Zack Baily, Jared Frayer, Sam Hazewinkel, Teyon Ware and Andre Metzger - open action Saturday at 9 a.m. in freestyle competition. Each weight class is comprised of 15 wrestlers with the top participant advancing on to represent the United States at the Olympic Games in London, England, July 27 through Aug. 12.

"To have five former University of Oklahoma wrestlers at the Olympic Trials trying to earn a bid to make the team is exciting for us as a program," head coach Mark Cody said. "We are very proud of each one of them and know they will represent the University well as they are not only outstanding wrestlers, but great human beings."

Bailey, Frayer and Ware will challenge one another in the 66 kg/145.5 pounds bracket. Ware, a four time All-American at OU, won the 2011 World Team Trials, while Bailey, a two-time All-American, finished third at the Olympic Trials Qualifier. Frayer, who currently serves as the assistant coach, was a two-time All-American at OU and earned his spot by winning the Sunkist Championship.

Hazewinkel, a four time All-American, finished second at 2011 World Team Trials and will challenge for a spot in the 55 kg/ 121 pounds class.

Metzger, a two-time NCAA Champion in 1981-82, is set to compete in the 74 kg/163 pound bracket.

"We want to continue to have former Sooner wrestlers in the hunt for World and Olympic berths," explained Cody. "I think a freestyle program is very important and we are going to continue our efforts to build up our freestyle program here at OU."

In total, OU has produced 21 Olympic participants with Melvin Douglas and Quincey Clark being the last Sooners to represent the U.S. back in 2000.