SEWARD, Neb. – The continuation of Creighton Baughman’s undefeated run served as the bright spot on Friday (Dec. 13) as the Concordia University, Nebraska Wrestling team hosted sixth-ranked Doane. The Bulldogs were defeated by the Tigers, 46-3, while surrendering nine of the 10 matches. Concordia made its first home appearance since staging GPAC Day of Duals No. 1 on Nov. 26.
Head Coach Josh Watts’ squad stands at 3-2 in conference action with three GPAC duals left to be contested in 2024-25. The Bulldogs are hoping to get healthier while ramping up for the second semester. Said Watts, “We have work to do, and we have to be willing to buy into what needs to be done.”
A challenging matchup for Concordia was made even more difficult due to the absence of several starters on Friday. Doane countered with a lineup that featured eight nationally ranked competitors, including six rated at the top of the GPAC within their respective weight classes. The result was a dominant outing for the Tigers, who took eight matches with bonus points inside Friedrich Arena. Doane earned pins at 125, 133 and 174.
Now in his third season as a Bulldog, Baughman entered the night ranked ninth in the NAIA at 141 pounds. The Papillion, Neb., native improved his 2024-25 season record to 9-0 while defeating Doane’s 14th-ranked Devin Avedissian, 7-1. Baughman scored a takedown in the second period and a reversal in the third period, effectively defending his No. 1 ranking in the GPAC. Baughman has won each of his four dual matches against GPAC foes.
In the final bout of the night, Concordia’s Mason Garcia gave 23rd-ranked Eli Criblez all he could handle. Garcia evened the score, 1-1, with an escape in the third period. However, Criblez emerged victorious, 4-1, thanks to a late takedown. It was the closest call for the Tigers (4-0 GPAC) amongst their nine match wins. In addition to its three pins, Doane came away with tech falls at 149, 157 and 197.
The Bulldogs lineup included three nationally ranked competitors on Friday: Baughman, Steven Barnes (22nd at 149) and Tommy Wentz (24th at 165). Two other Concordia wrestlers appeared in the NAIA rankings released on Thursday: Cole Price (22nd at 165) and Barret Brandt (24th at 174).
The Bulldogs have concluded competition for the calendar year 2024. Concordia will resume action on Jan. 11 with the Cusatis Open hosted by Hastings. The next dual meets on the slate are set for Feb. 8 when GPAC Day of Duals No. 2 will be held in Mitchell, S.D.