BUFFALO — University at Buffalo wrestling head coach John Stutzman has named his captains for the 2016-17 season. Joe Ariola, Colt Cotten, Muhamed McBryde and Tyler Rill will serve as team captains for the upcoming season.
“These guys are all great workers and very loyal members to our program,” Stutzman said. “They came in when we were a little down and they are the reason that we are starting to gain our momentum back. For these guys it has not been easy. They have all dealt with a ton of adversity throughout their careers, but they stayed the course and they now are in position to not only get a world class education, but they are now in the process of achieving their athletic goals.”
Ariola is a redshirt-junior from Oak Park, IL. He went 14-17 overall and 9-13 in duals last season at 184 lbs. He ranked second on the team in takedowns with 29. He went 4-2 at the 2016 Mid-American Conference Championships to earn a spot at the NCAA Championships where he scored a huge upset over third-ranked Victor Avery of Edinboro in the first round.
“Joe is extremely talented and is a very gifted athlete,” Stutzman said. “He is a former NCAA Qualifier with a lot to prove. He truly believes that he will be on the podium in March. The guys love him as he brings a ton of confidence to the team. It has taken me some time to figure Joe out, but I do know he is committed to UB wrestling and achieving his academic and athletic goals. When Joe goes the team goes!”
Cotten also advanced to the NCAA Championships last season at 149 lbs. He posted an overall record of 14-10 overall and 11-9 in dual matches. He pinned John Fathy of SIU Edwardsville at the NCAA Championships.
“Colt is another guy that keeps getting better,” Stutzman said. “He put a lot of good work in this summer. He put himself in position to be great this year. This was by far his most productive off season of his wrestling career. The best thing about Colt is that he loves UB, UB wrestling, and is committed to the TEAM FIRST MENTALITY.”
McBryde battled injuries last season, but still went 8-10 overall and 7-8 in dual matches. He graduated in May, but is returning for his fifth season.
“Muhamed is one of the hardest working student-athletes that I have ever been around,” Stutzman said. “Whether it is academics or wrestling, he’s always striving to be the best. In addition, he is a great leader for the younger guys. I am excited to continue working with him. This is the start of something great for Muhamed. After his collegiate career is over, he has international wrestling aspirations and I am happy that he wants to continue to train here at UB!”
Rill is a redshirt-senior from Hampstead, MD. He went 11-11 last year with a 6-8 dual record. He had 22 takedowns and tied for second on the team with three pins.
“Tyler is another guy who has sacrificed a lot to be here,” Stutzman said. “He had a chance to graduate, but decided he wanted to continue to help build this program. He knows he has unfinished business and wants to end his career with an All-American honor.”
The 2016-17 season starts on Nov. 13 when the Bulls compete at the Journeyman Classic in Albany.
from UBBulls.com via IFTTT
