Marsteller Leads LHU Contingent at University Nationals

AKRON – Chance Marsteller, a recent addition to the Lock Haven University wrestling team, finished second at University Nationals. He was one of nine Bald Eagles that competed this past weekend in Akron, Ohio unattached for the Mat Town USA Wrestling Club.

Marsteller officially joined the Lock Haven University wrestling team in mid-May and he’s already making major noise for the Bald Eagles.

Sunday Marsteller wrapped up a sensational outing at University Nationals in Akron. He finished as runner-up in a 91-man bracket at 74 Kg.

Marsteller went 6-0 to earn a spot in the finals. His six wins included three tech falls and two pins.

In the quarterfinals, Marsteller dominated Chad Welch, the 2015 Midlands Champion at 165 pounds. Welch is a three-time NCAA qualifier, was the No. 8 seed at 165 pounds in March at the 2016 NCAA Division I National Championships. Marsteller won with a 12-2 tech fall.

In the semifinals, Marsteller edged out Thomas Gantt, 8-6. Gantt was No. 2 seed at 157 pounds at the 2016 NCAA Tournament and went on to finish seventh, earning All-American honors.

In the best-of-three finals, Marsteller locked up with Isaiah Martinez, the two-time National Champion from Illinois. In the first bout, Martinez edged Marsteller 14-10 in an absolute thriller that brought a packed house to its feet. Martinez took home the title with a 15-5 win the second bout.

Marsteller was one of nine Bald Eagles, who competed in Akron over the weekend.

Thomas Haines, another recent addition went 3-2, while both Corey Hazel and Tristan Sponsellerwent 2-2.

Demetri Probst, Derek Dragon, DJ Fehlman, Tyler Wood and Derek Gulotta represented the Bald Eagles as well.