From NYU Athletics

Nathan Pike finished his collegiate wrestling career in style on Saturday night, March 11, pinning his way to the 133-pound national championship at the 2017 NCAA Division III National Championship, hosted by the University of La Crosse-Wisconsin, at the La Crosse Center in La Crosse, WI.

Pike, the second seed at 133 pounds, pinned his opponent, fifth-seeded Jay Albis of Johnson & Wales University, with 12 seconds remaining in the second period (4:48). The West Covina, CA, native is the first national champion in NYU wrestling history.

"To do this as a senior is really special," explained Pike. "It really validated coming back for this last semester. I owe a lot to my teammates, coaches and the support we've got from everyone at NYU and within the athletic department. It's a lot easier to step out there when you have a ton of people in your corner."

After being taken down in the first period, Pike recorded an escape to trail 2-1 after the first period.

The second period was all Pike, however. The senior recorded a quick takedown and earned two back points before pinning Albis to win the title.

"In the second period, I was able to try a few different moves and they worked out," added Pike. "Once I was on top I did what I do best and was able to get him on his back."

Pike ends his career as the second three-time All-American in program history and the first two-time finalist. 

"That was my last wrestling match ever," concluded Pike. "I'm feeling so many emotions, but this is awesome...best I've felt in a long time!"