Thierman and VanValen Finish 4th at NCWA Nationals
Ryan Thierman (Portville) and George VanValen (Ithaca) both finished 4th in their respective weight classes as they wrapped up competition at the 2016 NCWA National Championships in Kissimmee, FL.
In the 125 lb. bracket, Thierman defeated Byron Smith (Memphis) 8-4 in the consolation semifinals to advance to the 3rd place match. In the 3rd place match, Thierman fell 9-5 to Devon Jackson (Houston-Downtown). For the three day tournament, Thierman was 4-2.
VanValen started the day with a injury default victory over Zakery Pitt (Emmanuel) in the consolation final of the 174 lb. weight class. In the 3rd place match he lost a 5-3 decision to Bailey Bisher (Grand Valley State). VanValen was also 4-2 during the tournament.
The 4th place finishes by Thierman and VanValen were the best in school history. Bryan Mongiello finished 6th in the 2014 National Tournament.
The Pioneers finished 10th out of 28 teams in the Division II competition, the highest finish in school history.
