GREAT FALLS, Mont. – The University of Providence men's wrestling team opened their season with a win over in-state rival Montana State-Northern Thursday evening.

Joel Avila, Eli Walston, Chris Mesa, Brock Rodrigues, Jordan Komac, Alan Badley and KC Buday all won their matches to secure the victory.

"It was an outstanding effort from the kids," head coach Steve Komac said. "From the very first match all the way through the dual, it was just an outstanding effort."

The big win of the night came from Walston, who defeated NAIA defending 133 lb. National Champion Nick Kunz 6-5.

"That was a big win," Komac said. "Highly-ranked kid, returning National Champion. He's tough."

The team in general was enthusiastic and excited to compete, something that Komac believes helped his team persevere through tough moments. 

"Getting a win was obviously great," Komac said. "I think though that there was almost no focus on that. We're just so happy to be on that mat. We're so appreciative of all the people at our school that have helped us get there. It was just exciting to get on the mat and wrestle. That was the most important thing that happened today."
 
Full Results
125 lbs. – #19 Joel Avila def. Kaleb Frank (6-1)
133 lbs. – Eli Walston def. #4 Nick Kunz (6-5)
141 lbs. – Chris Mesa def. Carl Cronin (9-4)
149 lbs. – Brock Rodrigues def. Dylan Veis (6-4)
157 lbs. – Connor Herris def. Boone Giulio (14-10)
165 lbs. - #4 Jordan Komac def. Devin Crawford (8-3)
174 lbs. - #16 Chase Short def. Bridger Hall (14-3)
184 lbs. – Alan Badley def. Steeler French (7-5)
197 lbs. - #1 Isaac Bartel def. Quinn Whitmus (fall)
285 lbs. - KC Buday def. Rylan Moldenhauer (3-1)