The Iowa Lakes Community College wrestling team competed at the DWU Open in Mitchell, South Dakota, gaining valuable experience and earning several solid wins across multiple weight classes.

Head Coach Corey Meyer reflected positively on the team's growth throughout the day.

"This tournament always gives us a clear picture of where we're at early in the season," the coach said. "Our guys showed a lot of progress in the areas we've been concentrating on in practice. The team will continue to get better and grow throughout the year because of this mindset."

133 Pounds – Tony Garritano

After an opening-round loss, Garritano battled back with a dominant 15-0 tech fall over Chadron State's Drew Janke in Consolation Round 2.

"Tony responded exactly how we want after a tough first match," the coach noted.

"He stayed composed and wrestled with purpose. That tech fall was a great example of what he's capable of."

141 Pounds – Logan McDonald

McDonald put together one of the strongest runs of the tournament for the Lakers, winning three consecutive consolation matches:

• Tech fall over Victor Christian (16-1)
• Tech fall over Tacoma Augustine (17-1)
• Decision over Bentley Williams (8-2)

"Logan really opened up on the backside," the coach said.

"He wrestled with confidence and attacked in every position. That kind of effort sets the tone for our team."

174 Pounds – Nick Moore

After dropping his second-round match, Moore bounced back with a fall over Minot State's Daniels Bendiks in 2:32.

"Nick does a great job of staying aggressive," the coach said.

"He's dangerous when he commits to his attacks, and that pin showed exactly that."

184 Pounds – Jacob Range

Range stacked together two impressive wins:

• Tech fall over Kenny Smith (18-0)
• High-scoring decision over Dane Hartmann (20-14)

"Jacob wrestled with a lot of energy," the coach commented.

"His offense was clicking, and he showed real grit in that high-scoring match. We like the direction he's heading."

Looking Ahead

With multiple wrestlers earning wins and showing improvement, the Lakers continue to build momentum early in the season.

"Overall, it was a productive day for us," the coach concluded.

"We're learning, we're competing, and we're growing. That's what these early tournaments are all about."