Vikings Shine at Mike Clock Open

The Big Bend Men's Wrestling team took a major step forward this past Sunday as they competed at the prestigious Mike Clock Open at Pacific University, one of the toughest tournaments in the Pacific Northwest. With teams from both Division I and NAIA schools present, the competition was fierce, but the Vikings rose to the challenge and showcased impressive skill and resilience.

A mix of seasoned veterans and eager freshmen, the Vikings put on a strong performance that left a lasting impression. Several newcomers got their first taste of college wrestling at the event, and despite the challenging field, the freshmen showed they are ready for the rigors of collegiate competition.

Among the standouts was Hunter Tibodeau, who advanced all the way to the 3rd and 4th place match. Tibodeau's performance exemplified the determination and skill that has become a hallmark of the Big Bend program. Jaden Lopez also had an impressive run, making it all the way to the 5th and 6th place match before being forced to withdraw due to hitting the tournament's match limit. Though his day ended early, Lopez's effort was a testament to his toughness and determination.

The tournament proved to be an excellent opportunity for the Vikings to test their abilities against some of the best talent in the region. It was a valuable learning experience for the team, with the freshmen in particular gaining much-needed exposure to the intensity and physicality of high-level competition.

Looking ahead, the Vikings will face even more challenges with two away duals scheduled for next weekend. With momentum building from their strong showing at the Mike Clock Open, the team is eager to continue their development and continue their climb in the standings.