Campbellsville won its first NAIA national championshipJAMESTOWN, N.D. -- For the first time in Campbellsville University history, an NAIA team championship banner is coming back to campus, as Lady Tiger wrestling won the second annual NAIA Invitational in a big way over the weekend.
In addition to the team title, McKayla Campbell claimed the 109-pound title with a thrilling victory in the final 12 seconds.
Campbellsville scored 185 points as a team to beat runner-up and rival Life University by 50.5 points.
The Lady Tigers qualified a record 12 wrestlers for the championship and 10 of earned All-American honors - one champion, four runner-ups, three in third place and two placing fourth.
Behind Campbell, Alexandra Castillo (170), Randi Robison (136), Angie Vitiritti (130) and Charlotte Fowler all finished runner-up. Brianna Staebler and Jacqueline Ghent both finished fourth at 191 pounds and 123 pounds, respectfully. Emma Walker (143), Katlyn Pizzo (123) and Kendra Thompson (155) all finished third earlier on Saturday.
In the finals at 109 pounds, No. 1 seed Campbell got down early and at the end was facing a 14-11 deficit with only 12 seconds left. Her opponent, No. 3-seed Asia Ray, was called for stalling cutting the deficit to two, 14-12, and then with two seconds remaining on the clock Campbell earned a four-point throw to bring the entire Jamestown University gymnasium crowd to its feet. Campbell ended up winning 16-14.
The individual championship is also the first in Campbellsville University women's wrestling history as the sport is just in its second year being recognized by the NAIA.
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