11/16/02 by Trent Schell
No. 4 Panthers Place Four at Harold Nichols Open
No. 4 Neosho County Wrestlers Tally 4 Top-5 Finishes at Harold Nichols Open
FORT DODGE, Iowa -- The Neosho County Wrestling team traveled to Fort Dodge, Iowa this weekend for the Harold Nichols Open. Also known as the Iowa State Open, this tournament has
traditionally showcased some of the best wrestlers in the collegiate ranks. This year was no different.

Four Neosho wrestlers placed in the tournament. Leading the pack was red shirt Kevin Artis who placed third at 141. Kevin wrestled Nate Gallick, a three time Arizona state champion and ranked No. 2 in the country by Intermat of Iowa State in the semifinals, but lost a close match. Artis defeated Vote of Iowa Central 6-5 in the consolation finals to earn third place. Red shirt Chad Willard had a tough road to travel on his way to fourth place at 133. In his first match Willard defeated Eli Dominguez of UNO., a two time Iowa state champion and a returning Div. II All-American from the University of Nebraska-Omaha 4-3. In the semifinals, Willard faced returning NCAA Division I All-American Zack Roberson. Willard was able to score the first takedown on Roberson, but lost the match. In the consolation semifinals, Willard defeated 3x Missouri state champion Tyler Hubbard 10-6. In the consolation finals Willard injury defaulted to Paul Collum from Iowa Central after injuring his shoulder. Golden Smith (197) and Paul Mayfield (141) both battled their way to fifth place in their brackets.

The Iowa State Open proved to be a record setting event for a Neosho wrestler as well. Danny Sanders set a new tournament record when he pinned his Ellsworth opponent in eight seconds flat.

The overall consensus of the coaching staff was mixed on the day. “It was an up and down day.” said Asst. Coach John Taylor. Coach Taylor felt that the kids weren’t mentally prepared for the tough competition. “I think the kids have a lot of improvement to do on technique and intensity. But, I was proud of the ones who did well.” commented Asst.Coach Richard Fergola. One thing is for certain, the Neosho wrestlers saw great competition.


Richard Fergola
Head Assistant Coach
Dana College
USAW Gold Level Coach