Cleveland, Ohio-The season for University of the Ozarks wrestlers Devon Jackson and Nathaneal Rankin came to an end at the NCAA III National Championships in Cleveland March 9.
Both Jackson and Rankin were the first in program history to qualify for the Championships. Under the direction of head coach LeRoy Gardner, the Eagles advanced to the Championships in just their fourth year of existence.
Both Jackson and Rankin faced stiff competition and fell in two matches to be eliminated from the tournament. Rankin took a forfeit victory to score points for Ozarks. The Eagles finished 40th at the event.
"I am proud of the guys and the work they did to get here," said Gardner. "Every wrestler at this tournament is tough. We belong here, but we just need to keep getting better. I'm proud of the leadership Devon has provided to the program. I believe the future is bright. I think this whole experience will make the program better."
