Stephens, Graumenz Qualify for Nationals
         The SIUE wrestling team is coming off one of the best weekends it has had in several years as seven of the eight wrestlers placed sixth or better and two qualified for the NCAA Division II Championships.
         Juniors Zach Stephens (St. Charles, Mo.) and Nathan Graumenz (Vandalia) both will advance to the NCAA Division II Championships in Kenosha, Wis., on March 8-9. Stephens was the champion at 174 pounds. Graumenz placed third at 149 pounds after defeating a Ken Schmidt of Wisconsin-Parkside, who previously was ranked No. 1 in the nation by the Division II Wrestling Coaches Association.
         “Stephens wrestled perfect matches,” said SIUE wrestling coach Booker Benford. “He wrestled cautiously but beat everyone by at least four points and scored at the end of the matches.”
         Benford, who was named the Co-Midwest Regional Coach of the Year, was pleased with his team, which moved up in the meet from placing 11th last year to fourth this year. SIUE also scored more points (72) than some teams which has defeated them in dual matches this season.
         “Overall everyone wrestled very good,” said Benford. “I am pleased with all of the performances.” Matt Tomanovich (West Frankfurt) placed fifth in the meet. Four other Cougar wrestlers including Manny Herrera (Chicago), Mike Brenner (Belleville), Omari Johnson (Chicago), and Aaron Wiens (Cicero) placed sixth.
                  -siue-