The electric atmosphere at the Sanford Pentagon in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, reached a fever pitch as the 8th-ranked South Dakota State University (SDSU) wrestling team clashed with Arizona State in a thrilling Big 12 opening dual match. A crowd of 2,358 packed the stands, showcasing South Dakota’s deep-rooted support for wrestling. This event was not just a contest; it was a gathering of passionate fans, testimony to the state’s rich wrestling culture.
On the mat, SDSU emerged victorious with a final score of 24-14, marking a significant milestone: their first-ever win over Arizona State in wrestling. The match ended with a gripping performance by SDSU’s Brady Roark, who secured the win with an exhilarating walk-off pin over Damian Moreno. Highlighting the strength of the event, Arizona State, despite being unranked in the national poll, held the 11th position in tournament points – a testament to their formidable presence on the wrestling circuit.
Damion Hahn
Coach Damion Hahn expressed his admiration for both teams’ prowess, noting, “I don’t know if people quite grasp what they saw here today, but these are two of the top 10-15 teams in the country. I was nervous about this dual.”
South Dakota’s wrestling enthusiasts were more than just spectators; they were active participants. The Sanford Pentagon roared with every point scored by the home team. Coach Hahn lauded the crowd, acknowledging their role in boosting the team’s determination and spirit. “Sports is entertainment,” he stated. “And we told our guys, make it a fight, entertain this crowd.”
Looking closer at the matchups, Cael Swensen brought a wave of excitement with a 10-2 major decision over Gabriel Delgado, turning the score in SDSU’s favor. Moses Espinoza-Owens further solidified their lead with a 17-7 major decision over Cael Valencia, ensuring SDSU did not relinquish their advantage.
SDSU’s No. 8 ranking represents the highest in their program’s Division I history, a clear indicator of their rising trajectory in the national wrestling arena. Coach Hahn emphasized the importance of this achievement while maintaining focus on continuous improvement. “It can always be better,” he remarked. “But I like where our guys are at.”
This event underscores South Dakota’s evolving identity as a hub of college wrestling excellence, reflecting the commitment of its people to elevate the state’s sports reputation on a national scale. As the season progresses, SDSU continues to embody the spirit and dedication of ‘Jackrabbit Nation,’ aspiring not only to uphold their rank but to break new ground.
Adding to the state’s wrestling tapestry, Sioux Falls’ Augustana College had its shining moment by defeating Augsburg with a score of 17-15, while the University of Sioux Falls faced a challenging bout against St. Cloud State, showcasing the varied strength and talent across South Dakota’s collegiate wrestling programs.
The narrative of this wrestling duel is one of pride and passion, deeply rooted in the values and competitive spirit of South Dakota, promising more exciting chapters to come in the future.