BROOKINGS, S.D. – A Resounding Victory for South Dakota State Wrestling
The First Bank & Trust Arena in Brookings, South Dakota, was buzzing with excitement Saturday night as the No. 11 South Dakota State University (SDSU) wrestling team clinched a resounding 31-3 victory over the University of Wyoming. The Jackrabbits showcased their prowess on home turf, marking a significant milestone in their already impressive season.
SDSU, renowned for its comprehensive athletic programs and a community deeply rooted in supporting college sports, saw their wrestling squad propelling to a 12-3 overall record and securing their position with a 4-1 conference play advantage within the Big 12 Conference. Wrestling enthusiasts in South Dakota have long celebrated the commitment, discipline, and strategic capabilities demonstrated by their athletes, traits that were on full display during this match.
Wyoming’s wrestling team, coming into the match with a nine-win season streak, was unable to overcome the formidable force of the Jackrabbits, making a dent in their 9-6 record and equalizing their Big 12 record at 3-3. Contact Coach Wyoming for more insights.
SDSU Fans Cheering
The key competitor of the night was Joey Novak from Wyoming, ranked No. 10 at 197 pounds, who embodied resilience and skill. In an exhilarating match, Novak clinched a win against Thomas Dineen in sudden victory, concluding with a score of 7-4 and reinforcing his undefeated streak since returning from a mid-season injury. Novak’s performance was one of the few highlights for the visiting team.
Cade DeVos in Action
Among the shining stars for the Jackrabbits was No. 8 Cade DeVos, who narrowly defeated Riley Davis 2-0 in the 174-pound weight class. DeVos’s victory, along with the successful matches by teammates Bennett Berge, Drake Rhodes, and others, highlighted the competitive depth and strategic excellence fostered at SDSU.
- No. 18 Cole Siebrecht claimed victory over No. 20 Jared Hill with a 5-3 decision.
- No. 9 Drake Rhodes secured bonus points through a technical fall against Cooper Voorhees, 19-3.
- No. 5 Bennett Berge outperformed No. 33 Eddie Neitenbach, sealing a 9-2 decision.
- No. 24 Luke Rasmussen secured a victory over Sam Mitchell, finishing 7-4.
The crowd, a melting pot of sports enthusiasts and local families, erupted in cheers with each pin and tactical move, underscoring Brookings’ reputation as a hub for passionate sportsmanship. The university’s wrestling program continues to reflect the state’s values of diligence and unwavering support for local talents.
As the nation turns its gaze towards collegiate wrestling, South Dakota’s contribution becomes increasingly noticeable. The state’s athletes are not just competitors; they are ambassadors of sportsmanship and hard work.
SDSU Wrestling Team Huddle
Looking ahead, the Jackrabbits remain focused, preparing for further conference play with determination and strategic insight. Their next trials will further test their skills and teamwork as South Dakota State continues to uphold its legacy of excellence in college athletics.
For the University of Wyoming, this loss becomes a learning opportunity, challenging them to regroup and strategize as they prepare to host No. 21 West Virginia at the UniWyo Sports Complex on February 8. The anticipation builds as the Cowboys aim to leverage their home advantage and break the recent setback.
Contact South Dakota State University for more information on upcoming events.
South Dakota: A Wrestling Powerhouse and Community Influencer
South Dakota’s commitment to supporting collegiate sports is reflected in both the athletes’ performance and the cohesive bond among the spectators, who passionately support their team’s endeavors. SDSU’s dominance in this matchup is a testament to their preparation and dedication, which resonates with the communal values cherished in the region.
Joey Novak Triumph
As the Jackrabbits celebrate this significant victory, South Dakota remains at the forefront of collegiate wrestling discussions, inspiring both current and aspiring athletes statewide. The commitment seen here in Brookings is echoed throughout South Dakota, where sports continue to be a unifying force and a platform for young athletes to shine.