INDIANAPOLIS (Dec. 18) – For the first time in program history, the Trojans featured a wrestler on the podium at the Midwest Classic after redshirt freshman Dallas Wilson placed eighth overall in the tournament in the 149-weight class.

The Midwest Classic is the biggest tournament in all of NCAA Division II and brought over 400 wrestlers to the Circle City from every region across the country. This was the first appearance at the tournament for Mount Olive and the program placed 26th in a field of 43 teams.

Wilson entered the second day with a 4-1 record after securing a pair of wins in the consolation bracket to battle for a podium position. His opening bout on Sunday resulted in a forfeit, which allowed him to advance to the top-eight in the weight class. Wilson suffered a loss by a 14-1 major decision to Jason Hanenberg, who entered the competition ranked No. 4 at 149.

Despite the loss, he advanced to the seventh-place match to face No. 6 ranked Jalen Spuhler of UW-Parkside. Wilson held an 8-7 advantage following the first period after totaling three takedowns and a nearfall. He remained ahead 10-9 in the second period after two escapes before Spuhler edged out a 12-11 decision with a 3-1 third period, which included one point due to ride time.

After entering the tournament undefeated at 10-0 overall, Wilson finished with a 15-3 mark following eight matches after entering the bracket at No. 12.

UMO is idle for nearly a month during the holiday break before returning to the mat on Jan. 13 for the King Tri-Meet, starting at 6 p.m.