Ohio State Tops in Another Sport

In what is a football and basketball-based University based on popularity, one must not forget the excellence and achievements in other Buckeye athletics recently. 

By Ryan Leonardo

    In late March, the Buckeye wrestling team headed to St. Louis for the NCAA Wrestling Championships.  Two Buckeyes etched their names in the books and became National Champions.  Mike Pucillo (184 lbs.) and J Jaggers (141 lbs.) earned individual National titles, while helping the Buckeyes to an overall 2nd place at the national tournament, the best finish in school history.  Of course, national powerhouse Iowa took 1st.  Although Iowa’s wrestling program is like the UCLA Bruins of the John Wooden era, finishing the highest in school history must not go unnoticed. 

    Jaggers defeated No. 1 seed Chad Mendez of Cal Poly to claim his title, while Mike Pucillo beat No. 1 seeded Jake Varner of Iowa State.  Pucillo’s victory clinched second place for the Scarlet and Gray.  Congratulations to the Buckeyes and the Wrestling team of 2008, in what was a great performance.  Not many know how successful other facets of our athletic program are, so hopefully this will enlighten the Buckeye Faithful.  Special thanks to Chris Hansen for initial information on this piece.