From University of Chicago Athletics

University of Chicago's Steve Bonsall secured a top-eight finish in his weight class during the first day of the NCAA Division III Wrestling Championships on Friday.

Bonsall received the toughest opening draw in the 157-pound bracket when he matched up with undefeated No. 1-seed Robert Dierna of SUNY Cortland. Dierna defeated Bonsall with a 23-5 technical fall.

In the evening session of the consolation bracket, Bonsall faced off with Nicholas Racanelli (Wilkes University). The UChicago freshman earned a 5-1 decision to pick up his team-leading 31st victory of the season.

His final match of the night occurred against No. 7-seed Logan Meister (Ferrum College). Bonsall registered a quick takedown only 11 seconds into the match and added another takedown later in the period. However, Meister earned an escape to start the second period and then got a takedown of his own to go up 5-4. Bonsall's subsequent escape tied the match at 5-5.

In the third and final period, Bonsall received an escape point to go up 6-5 when Meister opted for neutral position. The Maroon rookie then fended off Meister's attack attempts and earned the one-point victory. With the win, Bonsall guaranteed a spot in the top eight at 157 pounds and All-American status.

Bonsall will continue action on Saturday morning with a pair of matches.