Vikings Topple WSU Cougars in Thrilling Dual

On Friday, December 6th, the Big Bend Community College Vikings traveled to Pullman for a showdown against the fifth-ranked Washington State University Cougars, a powerhouse in the NCWA boasting multiple returning All-Americans. Despite the stiff competition, the Vikings delivered a statement performance, securing a 29-14 victory and improving to 2-2 in duals this season.

The night kicked off with fireworks for the Vikings as freshmen Nate Tovar (125 lbs) and Simon Cervantes (141 lbs) earned back-to-back pins, giving Big Bend an early lead. Both teams forfeited the 133-pound weight class, but the momentum briefly shifted in WSU's favor.

Big Bend hit a rough patch, dropping matches at 149, 157, and 165 pounds. Despite the setbacks, Alex Barajas (149 lbs) and Cole Starr (157 lbs) battled valiantly against returning All-Americans, while Luke Bayne (165 lbs) pushed his opponent to the limit before falling short. Midway through the dual, the Vikings trailed 14-10.

Refusing to back down, Big Bend roared back in the second half with four straight victories. Sophomore Wyatt Romero (174 lbs) ignited the comeback with a technical fall, followed by Drake Wood (184 lbs) and Mac Laird (197 lbs), who both notched decisive wins.

The highlight of the night came from freshman Hunter Tibodeau (285 lbs). In a stunning display of power and technique, Tibodeau executed a spectacular throw just 50 seconds into his match, pinning his opponent to seal the dual in emphatic fashion.

With the victory, the Vikings leave Pullman riding high and looking ahead to their next challenge: a dual against in-state rival Evergreen State on Friday, December 13th.

Stay tuned as Big Bend continues to build momentum in what is shaping up to be an exciting season!