Brookings, S.D. – With high spirits and competitive energy, the South Dakota State wrestling team concluded their weekend by hosting the much-anticipated Warren Williamson Daktronics Invitational, which brought together talented wrestlers and exciting matchups.
Drake Rhodes continued his impressive debut as a Jackrabbit, showcasing his skills by going an undefeated 3-0 on the day at 165 pounds, with each victory accompanied by bonus points that highlighted his dominance on the mat.
Brady Roark faced a significant challenge at 125 pounds, starting his day against the nationally ranked No.1 wrestler Richard Figueroa. Roark expertly secured a takedown prior to Figueroa’s injury timeout and added another takedown afterward, ultimately benefiting from a default win as Figueroa was unable to continue due to his leg injury. Additionally, Roark displayed his grappling prowess with a hard-fought victory over #31 Antonio Lorenzo, narrowly winning 1-0 thanks to a strategic escape.
Freshman Cale Seaton had an impressive outing at the Invitational, notching three decision victories that propelled him to a perfect 3-0 record, indicating his promising potential in the sport. Derrick Cardinal also shone brightly with a mesmerizing display of technique, scoring a tech fall and two major decisions to conclude his day with a perfect 3-0 record as well.
Avery Allen demonstrated resilience after experiencing a loss to Arizona State’s Daniel Miranda, bouncing back effectively by dominating Michael Olson of NDSU, and securing a major decision victory in his final match of the day, highlighting his competitive spirit.
Marcus Espinoza-Owens excelled at 165 pounds after having moved up to 174 pounds for the dual against Augustana. On this day, he triumphed in all four of his matches, winning two by major decision, one by tech fall, and one by decision, showcasing his versatility and endurance.
Bennett Berge also had a standout performance, finishing the day 3-0 with an impressive tech fall victory and two decision wins, including a notable decision over Oklahoma’s #26 DJ Parker, adding to his compilation of victories.
The Jacks had a remarkably strong display at 197 pounds, as both Zach Glazier and Thomas Dineen delivered exceptional results, finishing their bouts with a 3-0 record for the day. Glazier showcased his outstanding grappling by scoring three tech falls, while Dineen expertly secured a pin and two major decisions, which notably included a victory over #24 Bradley Hill from Oklahoma, further solidifying the team’s reputation.
UP NEXT
Looking ahead, the next major event for the Jacks will be their dual against Northern Iowa on November 24th in Cedar Falls, Iowa. The Panthers are currently ranked 14th in the NWCA Coaches Poll, just behind the Jackrabbits in the rankings. Among the notable matchups, Bennett Berge will face a significant test ahead of him against Parker Keckeisen, the Panther’s standout wrestler and the country’s No. 2 in the 184-pound division, although he comes into this match following a recent loss to Carter Starocci at the NWCA All-Star Classic.
RESULTS*
125 | Brady Roark
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Injury default win over #1 Richard Figueroa (ASU), 7-0
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Decision win over Kael Lauridsen (NEB), 5-3
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Decision win over #31 Antonio Lorenzo (OU), 1-0
133 | #24 Derrick Cardinal
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Tech fall win over Carter Schmidt (OU), 18-3
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Major decision win over Gavin Caprella (AF), 15-3
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Major decision win over Kyle Burwick (NDSU), 9-1
133 | Cale Seaton
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Decision win over Tucker Owens (AF), 4-2
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Decision win over Carter Dibert (ASU), 2-0
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Decision win over Hayden Mills (NEB), 8-4
141 | Avery Allen
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Major decision win over Michael Olson (NDSU), 12-2
197 | #9 Zach Glazier
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Tech fall win over Seth Seago (OU), 19-3
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Tech fall win over Jacob Meissner (ASU), 20-4
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Tech fall win over Brian Burburija (AF), 16-1
-GoJacks.com-
What key qualities does Coach John Smith believe contribute to the South Dakota State Wrestling Team’s competitiveness?
**Interview with South Dakota State Wrestling Team Coach, John Smith**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Coach Smith. The Warren Williamson Daktronics Invitational was quite an event for the Jackrabbits. Can you share your overall impression of how your team performed?
**Coach Smith:** Absolutely! I couldn’t be prouder of how our team competed over the weekend. We had a mix of seasoned wrestlers and promising newcomers, and they all brought their A-game. Winning matches with bonus points is always a testament to the competitiveness and skill level of our athletes.
**Interviewer:** Drake Rhodes made quite a statement with his undefeated 3-0 record. What stood out to you about his performance?
**Coach Smith:** Drake’s matches were a highlight for sure. He not only went undefeated but did it convincingly with bonus points in every match. His ability to control the pace and dictate the action on the mat showed that he’s a fierce competitor. I’m excited to see how he continues to develop this season.
**Interviewer:** Brady Roark faced quite a challenge right off the bat against the top-ranked Richard Figueroa. How do you think that experience will benefit him moving forward?
**Coach Smith:** Facing a wrestler of Figueroa’s caliber is a tough test, but Brady handled it incredibly well. Securing a takedown before the injury timeout demonstrated his readiness to compete at a high level. Having that experience against the best in the country will only strengthen his resolve and strategy moving forward.
**Interviewer:** Freshman Cale Seaton also posted a perfect record. How important are these early successes for newcomers on the team?
**Coach Smith:** Early successes like Cale’s are vital. They build confidence and set a solid foundation for their development. It’s crucial for freshmen to gain that experience and know that they can perform at this level. It bodes well for their futures and the team’s depth.
**Interviewer:** Looking ahead, how do you think the upcoming dual against Northern Iowa will shape the season for the team?
**Coach Smith:** The dual against Northern Iowa is going to be a significant test for us. They are a strong team currently ranked 14th, and it’ll be a fantastic opportunity for our wrestlers to gauge where we stand. I’m particularly looking forward to Bennett Berge’s matchup against Parker Keckeisen. Facing top-tier competition is essential for our growth as a team.
**Interviewer:** Thanks for your insights, Coach! It sounds like an exciting season ahead for the Jackrabbits.
**Coach Smith:** Thank you! We’re looking forward to the challenge and hope to keep the momentum going. Go Jacks!