Tadzhimetov Places 1st at Cyclone Open
by Clint Burgi

November 12, 2005

FORT DODGE, Iowa - It had been nearly 18 months since Erkin Tadzhimetov had wrestled in a collegiate match, but apparently the senior from Uzbekistan is immune to rust after taking 1st place at 133 lbs. at the Cylcone Open in Fort Dodge, Iowa. Tadzhimetov won five times on Saturday with the championship win coming against Nebraska's Mike Rowe. After redshirting last season, he opened the 2005-06 season on Friday night by beating Jesse Sundell of Iowa State and remains perfect on the season.

"He really controlled every position. A couple of guys weren't close to scoring on him," said Utah Valley State coach Cody Sanderson. "Erkin is right where we want him to be right now."

Talon Vickers placed 2nd for the Wolverines at 125 lbs. Vickers avenged Friday's loss to Iowa State's Ben Hanisch during the open but fell in the championship match.

Daniel Polkowske and Justin Rawle also had successful days. Polkowske made it all the way to the quarterfinals and Rawle won three straight after losing his first match of the day and was one win from placing at the open.

"He did a great job," said Sanderson of Rawle. "He's made so much improvement from last year. I was very impressed with him. Overall, I thought the guys had a great job."

The Wolverines will wrestle in another open next week at the University of Northern Colorado. After that open on the November 19th, the Wolverines will wrestle at the Las Vegas Invitational on December 2-3. Their first home dual will take place on December 10th against Western State.