The Keiser wrestling team wrapped up Day 1 of the Missouri Valley Invitational on Friday with several strong performances against a deep national field, highlighted by a semifinal run from heavyweight Jordan Sommers and multiple victories over ranked opponents. Competing in one of the toughest open tournaments of the season, the Seahawks faced elite competition across all weight classes as the event opened with a 9:00 a.m. start.
Sommers led the way for Keiser, advancing to the semifinals at 285 pounds after defeating two nationally ranked opponents. The Seahawk heavyweight knocked off No. 6 Nicolas Rodriguez of Eastern Oregon in a tiebreaker decision before rolling past No. 25Â Caleb Pruitt of Reinhardt with a technical fall to secure his spot in the semifinals. Sommers finished the day unbeaten and remains alive heading into Day 2.
Keiser also picked up additional statement wins throughout the day. At 174 pounds, Ronald Butler earned a notable victory with a 2–1 decision over No. 12 Michael Durham of Indiana Tech. At 125 pounds, Patrick Jones continued his strong showing by pinning No. 19 Braden Ledford of Friends University, helping him reach the quarterfinal round.
Several Seahawks battled deep into the consolation brackets as well. Jett McCauley (197) went 3–1 on the day with multiple bonus-point wins to stay alive for Day 2, while Ronald Butler (174) and Patrick Jones (125) also advanced after strong opening days. Wrestlers with two losses were eliminated, while those still alive will return to the mat Saturday morning.
Seahawks Advancing to Day 2
Action resumes Saturday morning at 9:00 a.m., with the remaining Seahawks looking to climb the podium at the Missouri Valley Invitational.
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