NAIA Rallies to beat NCWA in See-Saw Battle 23-15 at American Airlines Challenge

ORLANDO, Fla. – The NAIA swept the final three matches to come from behind and defeat the NCWA, 23-15, Saturday at the second annual American Airlines Champions Challenge. The first-of-its-kind dual match showcased many of the top wrestlers from each association, with six NAIA All-Americans and four NCWA wrestlers who competed for national titles last year within their respective lineups.

The NCWA grabbed a 15-13 lead after the 174-pound match when Kevin Bacci of West Chester (Pa.) pinned Jameon Rush of Hastings College (Neb.). But a trio of Missouri Valley College wrestlers – Jesse Alter (184), Charles Gibbs (197) and Travis Ewart (285) – posted wins in the final three weight classes to seal another NAIA win at The Venue on the campus of the University of Central Florida.

The NAIA won last year’s inaugural event, 39-3.

“It’s a great chance for both divisions to see each other and it’s a good opportunity for the guys to get better on both sides,” Morningside College coach Jake Stevenson said. “The more we can promote it the better it is for the sport.”

Stevenson worked the corner for the NAIA team along with Brian Jackson (Missouri Baptist) and Patrick Giangrasso (Missouri Valley). Jason Balma (of UCF), Jovon Butler (Apprentice School) and John Petty (California Baptist) coached the NCWA team.

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