American Univerisity sends 4 Athletes to Nationals
American Univerisity sends 4 Athletes to Nationals

EAST STROUDSBURG, Pa. - Josh Glenn used a strong all around performance to win his second consecutive EIWA Championship Saturday night as the American University wrestling team tied a program-best with a sixth place finish. In total, six Eagles placed and four Eagles will be representing AU at the NCAA Championships in two weeks.
"Josh wrestled absolutely perfect," head coach Mark Cody said. "He had a quality opponent who's a really solid wrestler. It's to the point now with Josh where he will not accept defeat. He's not satisfied unless he's dominating his opponents. . Josh proved today he is a complete wrestler. He was great in all the scramble situation. At one point, when he drug Rinaldi back on to the mat, that was just heart. At NCAAs There is no doubt in my mind that he's the top 197 pound wrestler in the country."
Indeed, it appeared Glenn wanted to leave his impression on those in attendance for his championship match at Koelher Fieldhouse. After a slow first period, which featured numerous tie-ups and no scoring, Glenn started the second period down and escaped for the 1-0 lead. When it appeared his opponent Jerry Rinaldi of Cornell had Glenn on his way down by ankle, Glenn reversed with an ankle pick on the edge, which he converted for a two point takedown after miraculously pulling him back on the mat by the foot. Glenn rode Rinaldi out the remainder of the second and almost a minute into the third. When the Cornell senior finally broke free, Glenn ankle picked him right back to the mat for the 5-1 lead with riding time. With just 30 seconds remaining, the Eagle rode him out for the win. The win marks the second straight EIWA Championship for Glenn. His record is now 22-1 on the season and he will most likely receive a top-two seed in the NCAA Championships.
Fellow AU finalist Mike Cannon took second at 165 lb. Pitted against 2006 EIWA Runner-up Stephen Anceravage of Cornell, Cannon appeared to score first in the match, as he escaped an Anceravage takedown. After he was awarded two points, the official cited an illegal hold on Cannon and awarded Anceravage a penalty point. Anceravage was able to penetrate the Eagles' defense for four takedowns in the match as he shot out to a 6-2 lead into the third. Cannon escaped to close the gap, but riding time was still a factor. Anceravage scored his last takedown in the final minute and cut Cannon loose. Cannon was able to score a double leg takedown in the final 15 seconds to tighten the score at 9-6, where it remained. Cannon heads into the NCAA Tournament with a 27-6 record and a No. 12 ranking.
"This tournament made Mike a better wrestler," Cody said. "He was on the tougher side of his bracket. The two guys he beat earlier were in for third and fourth-place. He can improve that in two weeks. If he just decides he's going to attack all match and work for the double leg. In two weeks I expect him to get on the podium.
Glenn and Cannon's performances in the evening session guarantee them spots in the NCAA Championships alongside teammates Kyle Borshoff and Rudy Rueda who earned berths earlier Saturday. The foursome's berths to nationals mark the second time in program history American will be sending four athletes to the NCAA Wrestling Championships. "Sending three underclassmen to the NCAA Tournament speaks volumes for our program," Cody added. "Each one of them is good enough to get on the podium. How high is up them."
Placewinners Jasen Borshoff and Damian Swietlik combined with the performances of the aforementioned foursome mark the first time in school history the AU Eagle wrestling program placed six wrestlers at the EIWA Tournament.
American has two weeks to rest up and put the final touches on its preparation heading into the NCAA Championships in two weeks.