The UNI Panthers Showcase Dominant Performance Against North Dakota State Bison
In a thrilling wrestling match held in Fargo, North Dakota, the UNI Panthers put on a spectacular show, earning three bonus point wins and a total of eight victories. The Panther Train rolled to a resounding 33-6 road dual win against North Dakota State, showcasing their dominance and skill on the mat.
Northern Iowa’s impressive performance improved their overall record to 12-1, with a commendable 6-1 record in Big 12 Conference duals. This victory marked their eighth win over the Bison in their last nine matchups, solidifying their position as a formidable force in collegiate wrestling. The team also completed a perfect 3-0 record in Big 12 road duals this season, a remarkable feat that highlights their strength and determination.
The evening kicked off with Kyle Gollhofer leading the charge at 125 pounds, facing off against Tristan Daugherty. After a tense first period, Gollhofer made his move in the second period with a well-executed escape and a takedown, establishing a lead heading into the final period. With expert precision and control, Gollhofer secured a decisive 7-0 victory, setting the tone for the Panthers’ success.
Moving up to 133 pounds, Panthers’ wrestler Cory Land took on the challenge of facing No. 32 Kyle Burwick. Land showed his tenacity early on with a swift takedown in the first period, but a series of reversals kept the match close. Despite a hard-fought effort, Land narrowly fell 6-5 to Burwick, who capitalized on a penalty point and riding time advantage.
Freshman Carter Freeman displayed impressive resilience at 141 pounds in a closely contested match against Michael Olsen. With a scoreless first period, both wrestlers fought fiercely, earning an escape each to tie the score at 1-1. In a thrilling sudden victory round, Freeman seized the opportunity and secured a 4-1 win with a decisive takedown, showcasing his determination and skill.
No. 14 Colin Realbuto delivered a masterful performance at 149 pounds, outmaneuvering No. 27 Gavin Drexler with precision and speed. Despite an early setback, Realbuto quickly regained control, showcasing his technical prowess with a series of takedowns and strategic maneuvers. His dominant performance culminated in a remarkable 24-9 technical fall victory, underscoring his talent and expertise on the mat.
Transitioning to 157 pounds, Cael Rahnavardi faced a tough battle against Max Petersen, showcasing his resilience and determination throughout the match. Despite facing early challenges, Rahnavardi fought back with strategic reversals and tactical moves. Ultimately, he fell short in a hard-fought 9-7 match, highlighting the intensity and competitive spirit of collegiate wrestling.
At 165 pounds, Jack Thomsen demonstrated his dominance and skill with a commanding performance against Boeden Greenley. With strategic takedowns and a solid defensive strategy, Thomsen maintained control throughout the match, securing a well-deserved 8-2 win and showcasing his technical expertise on the mat.
Jared Simma continued the Panthers’ winning streak at 174 pounds, delivering a stellar performance against Devin Wasley. With four impressive takedowns, Simma displayed his technical finesse and strategic prowess, earning a remarkable 17-2 technical fall victory early in the second period. His consistent success on the mat exemplifies his dedication and skill as a wrestler.
Parker Keckeisen further solidified the Panthers’ dominance at 184 pounds, facing off against No. 32 Aidan Brenot with confidence and precision. With a series of well-executed takedowns and strategic maneuvers, Keckeisen cruised to a commanding 22-7 technical fall victory, extending his winning streak and highlighting his exceptional talent as a wrestler.
Wyatt Voelker continued the Panthers’ winning momentum at 197 pounds, securing another technical fall victory against Tayshaun Glover. With his strategic prowess and technical expertise, Voelker dominated the match, earning a decisive 17-2 victory and showcasing his skill and determination on the mat.
Lance Runyon closed out the night for Northern Iowa with a dominant performance at heavyweight, facing off against Drew Blackburn-Forst. With strategic takedowns and a solid defensive strategy, Runyon maintained control throughout the match, earning a commanding 10-1 major decision victory and highlighting his skill and expertise as a wrestler.
Looking ahead, the Panthers are set to host No. 14 Iowa State in their final home dual of the season next Sunday at 1 p.m. CT. The senior class will be honored prior to the dual, with live coverage available for fans to enjoy. Tickets can be purchased online or through the UNI Ticket Office, offering fans the opportunity to witness the Panthers’ incredible talent and dedication firsthand.
In a resounding victory, the UNI Panthers showcased their dominance and skill on the mat, securing a decisive win against North Dakota State and highlighting their impressive talent and determination in collegiate wrestling. As they continue their winning streak and prepare for future matchups, the Panthers remain a formidable force to be reckoned with in the world of collegiate wrestling.
