Coach John Smith Makes Changes at Toss-Up Weight Classes as Cowboys Gear Up for a Challenging Tournament
After a hiatus of over two decades, the Oklahoma State wrestling team is set to compete in the highly anticipated Cliff Keen Las Vegas Invitational. The tournament boasts an impressive lineup of seven of the top 10 nationally ranked teams. Despite the tough competition, Head Coach John Smith has made strategic changes at the toss-up weight classes and believes his team has a strong chance to make a statement. With the NCAA Championships being the only event ranked higher in terms of difficulty, the Cowboys are eager to prove themselves on the mat.
Changes at 149 and 157, Plus a Return at 174
In a bid to strengthen the middleweights, Coach Smith has made significant changes to the lineup. Jordan Williams, ranked #20, secured his spot at 149 pounds after impressive victories over his teammates, including a dominant 15-2 major decision over Carter Young. Williams, who had a challenging freshman year, has shown significant improvement with a perfect 5-0 start this season. Coach Smith sees the tournament as an opportunity for young wrestlers like Williams to establish themselves as formidable contenders.
At 157 pounds, senior Daniel Manibog will replace Jalin Harper, who lost to Manibog in sudden victory at the Broncho Open earlier this season. Manibog has displayed exceptional performance, securing bonus-point victories in five out of his six matches. Harper will still compete this weekend but in a different event, the Fort Hays tournament.
In the 174-pound weight class, Brayden Thompson will make his return to the mat after recovering from an injury sustained during the season opener against Bucknell. Initially expected to be out for an extended period, Thompson surprised everyone with a swift recovery. Coach Smith commended Thompson’s resilience and dedication to getting back in shape.
For all three wrestlers, this tournament marks a significant milestone in their careers. While Manibog brings experience to the table, he has yet to compete in a tournament of the caliber of the Cliff Keen Invitational. Coach Smith believes this event presents an excellent opportunity for the younger wrestlers to prove themselves, while also offering Manibog a chance to solidify his position as Oklahoma State’s 157-pounder.
Addition of Olejnik Paying Off
Izzak Olejnik, a transfer from Northern Illinois and an All-American, has already made a strong impression in his short time at Oklahoma State. His ankle pick on Dean Hamiti at the NWCA All-Star Classic was recognized as the Adidas takedown of the week. Competing in the 165-pound weight class, Olejnik faces tough competition, including #2 ranked David Carr. Coach Smith commended Olejnik’s dedication and work ethic, noting his maturity and purpose in training.
Olejnik, aiming to surpass his eighth-place finish at the NCAA Championships, sought to elevate his performance by transferring to a prestigious program like Oklahoma State. He credits the intensity and high expectations in the wrestling room for pushing him to improve his technique. Olejnik expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity to wrestle against top-ranked opponents, emphasizing his desire to compete at the highest level.
Conclusion: As the Oklahoma State wrestling team gears up for the Cliff Keen Las Vegas Invitational, Coach John Smith has made strategic changes to the lineup, particularly at the toss-up weight classes. The tournament presents an opportunity for young wrestlers to establish themselves and for experienced competitors like Daniel Manibog and Izzak Olejnik to make a statement. With a loaded field and tough competition, the Cowboys are ready to showcase their skills and prove their mettle on the mat.
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