McLean County Times

The Illinois Wesleyan University men's wrestling team achieved its first dual win since the program was reinstated before the 2023-24 season. The Titans secured a victory over Concordia University Wisconsin with a score of 43-12 during their inaugural appearance at the College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin (CCIW) Duals on January 25, 2025.

In their match against Concordia Wisconsin, freshman Chandler Gardner and Jackson Castaneda both won by forfeit at 125 pounds and 165 pounds respectively. Sophomore Austin Johnston defeated Anastacio Martinez with a major decision of 15-3, marking his 12th win of the season. Freshman Ameer Alamawi pinned Mason Markham in just 1:39, contributing to four pins achieved by the Titans that day. Additional victories included freshman Evan Carel's win at 157 pounds and pins from sophomore Jeremy Olson and senior Bobby Conroy.

Sophomore Alexander Jackson concluded the match with his first career win by pinning Peyton Smith at the 4:59 mark, finalizing IWU's victory over Concordia Wisconsin.

In subsequent matches, Illinois Wesleyan faced Elmhurst University and Wheaton College but fell short with scores of 38-16 and 40-12 respectively. Despite these losses, Johnston continued his successful performance with another pin against Elmhurst's Zach Carter and a forfeit win against Wheaton. Conroy also added another pin to his record against Elmhurst's Connor Kelly. Jackson achieved his second career win in a major decision over David Ortiz.

Olson recorded his second pin of the day during the Wheaton dual, defeating Jack Barron at the 7:56 mark. The Titans now prepare for their next competition at the Dubuque Invite hosted by the University of Dubuque on February 8, where events will begin at Stoltz Sports Center.