The scholastic-style event was contested for wrestlers in four divisions: the High School Division (grades 9-12), the Middle School Division (grades 7-9), the Elementary Division (grades 4-6), and the College Division. The top six placewinners qualify for the 2006 NHSCA National Open Wrestling Championships, to be held in Virginia Beach, Va. next June.
"The National Open Pre-Season Wrestling Championships has become the best tournament of its kind in the nation," NHSCA executive director Bob Ferraro said. "This Pre-Season event is a unique experience that involves athletes from so many different parts of the country and allows for elementary through college/open competition under one roof. A lot of great wrestlers have come through this event and gotten the confidence boost they needed for an outstanding season. In just eight years, this event has developed an outstanding tradition."
Craig, the nation's top collegiate prospect who has committed to Lehigh University, needed just 1 minute, 10 seconds to pin his first three opponents, then won the title with a 15-1 major decision. Eric Grajales, a freshman and Craig's teammate at Brandon, also was dominant in winning the 103-pound title. Jeremie Cook of Venice High became Florida's third champion by winning the title at 189.
Reed's second title capped an outstanding performance by the host state, which led all states by crowning five individual champions. Making the most noise was sophomore Jacob Earp (130) of Boone Watauga High. Earp, who didn't place in the Class 4A state tournament last year, stunned two-time New Jersey placewinner Will Livingston of Newton Kittatinny High 2-1 in the semifinals, then scored an 11-2 major decision over Tennessee state champion Nic Bundy of Hendersonville High for the title. Junior Travis Coffey, Earp's teammate at Watauga, won the 112-pound title, along with junior Thomas Ferguson (140) of Cary High and senior Zach Martin (145) of Southern Pines Pinecrest High.
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