Release: http://www.aueagles.com/sports/m-wrestl/2012-13/releases/20121103

Kevin Tao opened the 2012-13 season with a 12-4 major decision over Kodie Silvestri of Wartburg College in a local feature match at the 47th annual NWCA All-Star Classic on Saturday night in Bender Arena.

Silvestri challenged Tao early, getting an escape to put the score at 3-2 in favor of Tao in the first period. The senior answered with a takedown for the 5-2 advantage and after a Silvestri escape added another for an 8-4 lead. Tao started down in the third period and got the escape, posting another takedown and adding the riding-time point to cruise to the major decision.

“I knew there would be a lot of nerves and anxiety, but Kevin went out and attacked his opponent and he scored points, so I was excited for that,” said Head Coach Teague Moore. “I’m really happy for him that he was able to do it on his home turf.”

SaturdayÂ’s event drew over 3,000 wrestling fans to Bender Arena and was the largest wrestling event ever held in Washington, D.C.

“I feel like this is something our program is really going to grow on for the next 12 to 24 months and I’m excited about that as their coach,” added Moore.

American opens its season at the Brockport/Oklahoma Gold on Saturday, November 10 in Brockport, N.Y.