BROCKPORT, NY – Following a powerhouse performance that punched his ticket to the national stage, freshman Mike Welsh has been named the Empire 8 Wrestler of the Week on Monday, March 2nd.

The Frontier, NY native proved he belongs among the elite this past weekend at the NCAA Regionals. Competing in the 285-pound heavyweight division, Welsh was a vital engine for the team's success, contributing a massive 18.5 points to the overall standings and securing a second-place podium finish.

Welsh opened his Saturday slate with a dominant statement, earning a technical fall victory to advance to the quarterfinal round. He maintained that momentum with a stifling defensive performance, shutting out his opponent in an 8-0 major decision. The stakes peaked in the semifinal round, where Welsh showed immense poise by grinding out an exciting tie-breaker win before moving to the 1st place match where his dominating day ended. 

Welsh's performance successfully earned him a qualifying spot for the national tournament. The freshman standout will look to carry this momentum forward as he continues his thrilling season at the NCAA Division III Championships on Friday, March 13th, and Saturday, March 14th, for a chance at national honors.