Ashland University's wrestling team will honor three of its national champions on Thursday (Nov. 8) with the presentation of national champion rings.
National Champions Bret Romanzak (2018), Luke Cramer (2018) and Michael Labry (2017) are all being honored before the Eagles' dual with Lourdes on Thursday at 7 p.m. at Kates Gymnasium. Director of Athletics Al King will present the national champions with the rings.
"Thursday is going to be very special," said Ashland head coach Josh Hutchens. "The first home competition of the season always brings a heightened level of excitement, but this year has the bonus of presenting our national championship rings. I know how hard these guys worked in order to achieve these accomplishments, and how much it has meant to our program.
"I am looking forward to seeing them receive this well-deserved honor."
In 2017, Labry became Ashland's first wrestler to win a national title since 1996. At 133 pounds, Labry finished his senior year with a record of 35-1 on his way to his national title. He won his title match in a 7-5 decision.
The 2018 season saw two Eagle wrestlers win a national title in the same season for the first time ever. Romanzak (165) was the first underclassman to win a title for Ashland since Corey Kline in 1996. He is currently ranked No. 1 in the nation at 165 pounds. Cramer (197) won his national title as a senior, winning 5-1 in the championship.
This season, the Eagles already have started 4-0 following a dominating performance at the Kent State Duals. Their home dual Thursday night is the only one at "The Kates" until Jan. 12.
"I am hoping for a good performance from the current team. We will be competing against a much-improved Lourdes team, so it should be a good test," said Hutchens.
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