COMMUNITY JOURNALISM: On the mat with Coe and Cornell

By Chad Cooper, Community contributor

The Coe and Cornell wrestling teams are nationally ranked and dominating the mats around the state of Iowa, including impressive performances at the recent Matman Invitational in Mount Vernon.

Here is a look at how both programs have done thus far as well as what lies ahead.

Coe Kohawks

The Kohawks are 6-2 in dual matches and are ranked fifth in the latest Division III poll.

Coe finished first in the 14-team Matman Invitational at Cornell on Jan. 14, edging out the host Rams, Luther and top-ranked Wartburg.

The Kohawks have seven ranked wrestlers, including 149-pounder James Locke and heavyweight Alex Burkle, both winners at the Matman meet. Nick LeClere, top-ranked at 165 pounds, ran his winning streak to 19 matches before withdrawing from the tournament before the championship match.

The Kohawks will return to action on Saturday, hosting a four-team Iowa Conference meet that includes top-ranked Wartburg.

Cornell Rams

The Rams are 6-3 and ranked sixth in Division III.

Cornell's Matman event featured 10 nationally ranked teams and 28 rated wrestlers. Cornell had the most individual champions with seniors Timothy Hood (125 pounds), Tigue Snider (133) and Joe Hambleton (165) wining titles. Hood was named Most Outstanding Wrestler after beating two higher-ranked opponents.

The Rams have four nationally ranked wrestlers, including Hood and Hambleton. Senior Nicholas Loughlin at 157 pounds and sophomore Alex Coolidge at 197 also are ranked.

The Rams travel to Pella on Saturday for their portion of the Iowa Conference Duals.

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