by Keith Kelley–25 Jan ’24
The Wyoming Cowboy wrestling team has won two straight Big XII duals, as they are 5-5 overall this season and 3-3 in conference. The first coaches rankings were released earlier this week, and four Wyoming grapplers were in those initial rankings. That included Jore Volk at 125 pounds. He’s ranked fourth in the coaches poll, with a record of 18-4 overall, and that includes a 7-4 mark against ranked opponents. Before the season, Volk said his goal was to get on the podium at the NCAA Tournament. But now he believes he can go out and win a national championship.
“Definitely this year, this weight class (125 pounds) has been a crazy weight,” said Volk. “There’s not really been any guys who have shown that they’re the consistent number one guy. So I think that anyone can win that weight class, and I believe that I’m one of those guys.”
The other three Wyoming wrestlers that are ranked in the coaches poll are Gabe Willochell, who is 14th at 149 pounds. He’s 14-6 with a team-high five pins. Joey Novak is ranked 19th at 197 pounds, as he’s 16-10 on the year and 6-9 against ranked foes. Cole Brooks is ranked 31st at 141 pounds. He’s 8-4 and has been injured some this season.
The Cowboys are at Northern Colorado Friday evening at 6 pm.
