LAS VEGAS, Nev. – In a series of intense action held at the Flamingo Hotel on the Las Vegas Strip, the Adams State women's wrestling team encountered formidable opponents, including some of the top-ranked teams in the nation at the Desert Duals.
In their first dual of the event against Simon Fraser University, Adams State won one match resulting in a 39-5 defeat.
Austria Holland, the reigning Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC) Wrestler of the Week, provided a bright spot for the team at 116 pounds, securing a victory by fall in just 2 minutes and 20 seconds. Notably, Simon Fraser is ranked No. 8 in the nation. This dual also served as a RMAC dual for Adams State. The team's overall season record stands at 1-6, with a conference record of 0-2 after the weekend.
The second round pitted Adams State against the nation's top-ranked team, Iowa, resulting in a 34-11 loss. The team faced tough challenges in some weight classes, with their points coming via forfeits.
Wartburg, tied for 15th in the national rankings, proved to be another formidable opponent in the third round, as Adams State suffered a 40-1 defeat. The lone point for Adams State came from Liana Fernandez at 143 pounds, who secured a point in a technical fall loss with a score of 14-4.
In their final dual, Adams State faced Ottawa University Arizona, resulting in a 29-20 loss.
Trinity Perez (130 pounds) and
Rylie McCabe (136 pounds) showcased their resilience, both securing victories by fall. Fernandez contributed to the team's score with a technical fall victory.
Despite facing challenging opponents, the Adams State women's wrestling team demonstrated determination and skill throughout the Desert Duals. The competition against nationally ranked teams, combined with RMAC duals, provides valuable experience for the team as they continue their pursuit of success in future matchups. The next dual is scheduled at Hastings College on January 7th.