BaldwinCity.com

In just its third year of existence as a program, the Baker University wrestling team has been crowned the champ in the state of Kansas.

Junior Brandon Gebhardt (Sparks, Nev.) was named the tournament’s most outstanding wrestler after recording three victories, with the most notable victory coming in the finals over NCAA DII Fort Hays State standout Justin Glenn.

Senior Jarell Price (Las Vegas, Nev.) entered Sunday ranked No. 3 in the NAIA at 149 pounds, and didn’t disappoint as he was crowned a champion in the 149 pound weight class after knocking off Kane Lavvorn of Colby Community College with a fall at 4:21 in the finals.

Unseeded Joel Olivas (Henderson, Nev.) was the biggest surprise of the afternoon as he advanced all the way to the finals of the 141 pounders, before falling to C,J. Napier of Fort Hays State.

“Today was a total team effort,” said coach Jimmy May. “This was a huge step forward for our program, and I couldn’t be more proud of our kids.”

No. 10 Baker won’t have time to celebrate for long as the Wildcats prepare to host No. 5 Oklahoma City University at 6 p.m. Feb. 1.

2012 Kansas Cup Wrestling Invitational Final Team Standings

1. Baker University 121 points

2. Labette County 118.5 points

3. Fort Hays State 112.5 points

4. Neosho CC 69 points

5. Pratt CC 66.5 points

6. Bethany College 65.5 points

7. Colby County 60 points

8. Newman University 33 points

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