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GRACELAND UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS
Graceland Wrestlers Deliver Strong Effort at Missouri Valley Invitational

Graceland Wrestlers Deliver Strong Effort at Missouri Valley Invitational

Results

LAMONI, Iowa – The Graceland University men's wrestling team showcased resilience and skill at the Missouri Valley Invitational over the weekend, with several Yellowjackets delivering commendable performances against a highly competitive field of NAIA programs. The team continues to build momentum as they push towards the final stretch of the season.

Tournament Highlights

The Yellowjackets had strong individual performances, highlighted by standout efforts in multiple weight classes.

  • 133 lbs – TJ Smith:
    Smith faced a tough challenge in the championship bracket, falling to Roman De La Cruz of the University of Saint Mary (Fall, 3:46). In the consolation round, he was defeated by Jerry Molina of St. Thomas University via fall (5:12), ending his run at the tournament.

  • 141 lbs – Caden Lopez:
    Lopez battled against Hartwell Taylor of the University of Saint Mary in the championship round, ultimately falling via pin at 4:34. Despite the result, Lopez demonstrated solid mat awareness and technical improvements.

  • 197 lbs – John Schuttler:
    Schuttler had a strong showing in the consolation bracket after an initial loss to Kaleb Grove of Northwestern (Dec, 10-3). He rebounded with impressive victories over Blake Johnson of Missouri Baptist University (Tech Fall, 15-0 at 3:00) and Jacob Ruff of Central Methodist (Decision, 7-1) before being eliminated by Grove in the fifth round (MD, 14-4).

  • 197 lbs – Jayden Angle:
    Angle also competed in the 197-pound division, facing Kaleb Grove of Northwestern in the fifth consolation round and falling by major decision (14-4). Angle showcased his resilience against a tough opponent.

  • 285 lbs – Oran Varela:
    In the heavyweight division, Varela fought hard against Devon Lolar of the University of Saint Mary but fell short in a close match (Decision, 1-0).

Looking Ahead

Graceland take the next few days to prepare before returning to dual action next Wednesday against Benedictine College. The dual meet is scheduled for 7 p.m. at the Ralph Nolan Gymnasium in Athchision, KS.

For more information on Graceland Men's Wrestling and all of Graceland athletics, visit GUjackets.com.