In an electrifying display of wrestling prowess, the South Dakota State University Jackrabbits, ranked 12th in the nation, triumphed over Air Force with an impressive 38-3 victory in a Big 12 dual meet on a brisk Saturday evening. This remarkable contest took place at the historic Clune Arena, enhancing South Dakota State’s record to an impressive 10-3, with a 1-1 conference mark in the Big 12. Meanwhile, Air Force’s record dipped to 2-5 (0-4 Big 12).
South Dakota State, known for its vibrant and resilient sports culture, once again showcased the indomitable spirit of its people. Wrestling, a sport with deep roots and a strong following in the state, aligns perfectly with the state’s hardworking and determined ethos.
The Jackrabbits’ victory included nine wins from ten bouts, a true testament to their outstanding skills and technique. Seven of these wins came with bonus points, including an incredible four technical falls, underscoring the team’s dominance in the wrestling arena.
One of the highlights of the evening was Air Force freshman Brian Burburija, who managed to secure the Falcons’ sole victory in the 197-pound bout. Burburija clinched a narrow win against South Dakota State’s Thomas Dineen, with a score of 9-8. This victory improved Burburija’s season record to 15 wins with a 3-3 record in dual action, showcasing the emerging talent within the Air Force wrestling team.
The match was a significant event for South Dakota State’s community, as it highlighted the university’s commitment to excellence in sports, mirroring the state’s larger commitment to education and athletic development. Each wrestler’s performance was a tribute to the strong coaching and support from the university and its alumni.
- Tanner Jordan over Bubba Wright (MD 8-0)
- Derrick Cardinal over Gavin Caprella (Dec 4-0)
- Julian Tagg over Carter Nogle (Dec 4-0)
- Colin Dupill over Alec Viduya (MD 15-3)
- Cobe Siebrecht over Joshua Palacio (TF 19-3, 4:24)
- Marcus Espinoza-Owens over EJ Beloncik (TF 24-8, 5:15)
- Cade DeVos over Jack Ganos (TF 26-8, 5:15)
- Bennett Berge over Gage Musser (TF 19-4, 6:24)
- Luke Rasmussen over Antonio Ramos (MD 9-0)
Clune Arena, renowned for its rich history and atmosphere, provided the perfect setting for this clash of titans. As the match drew to a close, the excitement among the South Dakota State fans was palpable, reflecting their pride in their team’s achievements and dedication.
South Dakota State’s athletes, including Cobe Siebrecht, Marcus Espinoza-Owens, Cade DeVos, and Bennett Berge, delivered awe-inspiring performances, each securing victories by technical falls. These athletes personify the fighting spirit and passion for sports that is deeply ingrained in South Dakota’s culture.
Looking ahead, Air Force is set to compete against North Dakota State on January 19 at Clune Arena. The team aims to bounce back with a strong performance in the upcoming match, determined to showcase their resilience and skill. The dual is scheduled for 12 p.m. MST, promising to be another spectacle of athleticism and sportsmanship.
For the people of South Dakota, this victory is more than a sporting achievement; it is a celebration of their values and dedication to excellence. South Dakota State University continues to be a beacon of sporting success and a source of pride for its community, both on and off the field.
In the world of college wrestling, the South Dakota State Jackrabbits are more than just competitors; they are ambassadors of the spirit and determination that define their home state, making them a force to be reckoned with in the Big 12 Conference.