From University of Chicago Athletics

The University of Chicago wrestling team split the squad to simultaneously compete at the Concordia (Wis.) University Open and the Millikin University Duals on Saturday.

Paul Papoutsis provided the biggest highlight of the day with his third-place showing at the Concordia Open. In the 174-pound bracket, Papoutsis won his opening three matches. He lost in the semifinals, but then rebounded to pin his opponent in the consolation semis. The junior went on to win the third-place match, 4-2.

Sophomore Nick Ferraro came away with multiple victories as well at Concordia, going 2-2 at 165 pounds. Ferraro's wins included a major decision and a first-period pin.

The Maroons also wrestled three duals at Millikin. The host Big Blue defeated UChicago 41-4, with senior Steven Franke providing a 13-4 major decision victory at 184 pounds.

The next opponent was Truman State University, who topped the Maroons 42-7. Sophomore Nicholas DiNapoli (165 pounds) edged his opponent 4-3 and freshman Mason Williams earned a 10-1 major decision at 149 pounds.

UChicago wrapped up the day with a 33-18 victory over Calumet College. Four wins came via weight class forfeit. Freshman Patrick Mulkerin was victorious 5-4 at 197 pounds and heavyweight freshman Joseph Scheidt won via injury default.

"The goal was to get some of our younger wrestlers some stiff competition and we certainly got that with NCAA Division II Truman State and a tough Millikin team that put its toughest lineup against our younger guys," said Head Coach Leo Kocher. "Paul Papoutsis taking third at the Concordia Open is the highest placer we've had at that tournament in years. He has to be viewed now as one more of our wrestlers who is nationally competitive. I'm proud of our freshmen for the work they got done today and look forward to the entire team improving."