Central Oklahoma Bronchos Wrestling Dominates, Eyes National Championship
EDMOND – The University of Central Oklahoma (UCO) Bronchos wrestling team delivered a stunning performance Sunday, overpowering No. 14 Central Missouri 37-7 at Hamilton Field House. This victory secured their sixth straight MIAA championship and extended their impressive winning streaks.
Unstoppable Momentum: Streaks and Records
UCO concluded the dual season with a remarkable 16-1 record, boasting a 15-game winning streak. Their home winning streak now stands at an impressive 33 consecutive matches at Hamilton Field House. The Bronchos also maintain a perfect 48-0 record against Central Missouri and a 31-match winning streak within the league.
Key Performances Fuel the Victory
The Bronchos’ dominance was evident across multiple weight classes. Eli Kirk (125) and Jason Henschel (133) started the match with major decision and technical fall wins, respectively, setting the tone for the afternoon. Hunter Jump (174) and Garrett Wells (197) secured falls, while Gabe Johnson (157) and Branson Britten (184) added technical falls to the tally.
Josh Taylor (141) and Ryan Nichols (Hvy) also contributed wins, completing the Bronchos’ commanding performance. Nichols’ victory over 14th-ranked Torin Forsyth was a notable upset.
Hamilton Field House: A Fortress for the Bronchos
Hamilton Field House, which opened in 1965, has become a formidable venue for the Bronchos. Renovated in 2001, the 3,000-seat arena hosts not only wrestling but also men’s and women’s basketball, volleyball, and other UCO athletic programs. The facility also serves as the home for coaching staffs of multiple sports, including basketball, golf, soccer, tennis, track & field, and cross country.
Looking Ahead: NCAA Tournament Bound
The Bronchos will return to Hamilton Field House in two weeks to host the NCAA Division II Super Regional IV Tournament on March 1. The top three finishers at each weight class will advance to the NCAA Division II Wrestling Championships, scheduled for March 13-14 in Sioux Falls, S.D.
Honoring Wrestling History
During halftime of the dual, UCO honored its 1985-86 national championship team, recognizing all six All-Americans and head coach David James.
UCO vs. Central Missouri – Match Results
- 125 – Eli Kirk (UCO) major dec. Karim Allal, 17-4
- 133 – Jason Henschel (UCO) technical fall Drew Standfield, 18-0 (6:32)
- 141 – Josh Taylor (UCO) dec. James Wright, 8-1
- 149 – Trey Dillow (UCM) dec. Cole Mayfield, 7-2
- 157 – Gabe Johnson (UCO) technical fall Ayden Dolt, 18-3 (7:00)
- 165 – Gage Bernall (UCM) major dec. Bryce Dauphin, 11-2
- 174 – Hunter Jump (UCO) pinned Anthony Erickson, 5:58
- 184 – Branson Britten (UCO) technical fall Ayden Flores, 15-0 (3:55)
- 197 – Garrett Wells (UCO) pinned Trey Brewer, 2:20
- Hvy – Ryan Nichols (UCO) dec. Torin Forsyth, 4-2
FAQ
Q: Where does the UCO wrestling team compete?
A: The UCO wrestling team competes at Hamilton Field House in Edmond, Oklahoma.
Q: How many consecutive wins does UCO have against Central Missouri?
A: UCO has a perfect 48-0 record against Central Missouri.
Q: What is the capacity of Hamilton Field House?
A: Hamilton Field House has a seating capacity of 3,000.
Q: When is the NCAA Division II Wrestling Championships?
A: The NCAA Division II Wrestling Championships are scheduled for March 13-14 in Sioux Falls, S.D.
Did you know? Hamilton Field House also houses offices for the coaching staffs of several UCO athletic programs.
Stay updated on Broncho wrestling by visiting the UCO Athletics website.
