REDDING, Calif. – The (RV) Corban University men's wrestling team made its long-awaited return to the mat on Saturday, traveling down to Redding, Calif. to take part in the Simpson University Duals. The Warriors competed in a pair of contests against Cascade Collegiate Conference (CCC) adversaries, falling to (RV) Simpson by a 36-22 tally, and stumbling to (RV) Vanguard by a 48-6 final score.

While the Navy and Gold came into the event without the ability to practice indoors beforehand—due to current Marion County restrictions related to COVID-19—many Warrior grapplers turned in impressive individual showings in their 2020-21 debuts. Corban underwent extensive testing measures in order to safely compete on Saturday.

Despite forfeiting four weights (125, 133, 141, and 197), Corban made things interesting in their season-opening dual against the Red Hawks. Forced to dig out of an 18-point deficit after forfeits in the first three weight classes, the Warriors rattled off three-consecutive victories to make it a match against the tournament host.

Making his Corban debut, 149-pounder Kane Nixon pinned Elijah Blake after just 1:20, giving the Warriors a vital spark. Reigning CCC Champion Cooper McCullough then turned in a typically exceptional performance at the 157-pound weight class, triumphing over No. 20-ranked Conrado Lopez by way of major decision (14-5).

David Rubio (165) then continued the trend, pinning Simpson's William Hernandez at the five-minute mark.

Despite the strong efforts from the trio, it wouldn't be enough to overcome the early deficit, as the Red Hawks would claim a pair of valuable wins at 174 and 285—as well as an additional forfeit at 197—en route to the team victory.

In the latter contest, the No. 26-ranked Vanguard Lions flexed their muscle, capturing victories in all but one of the dual's matches. No. 9-ranked McCullough was the lone Warrior to garner a triumph, winning by way of fall (3:44) against Caleb Jones to seal an undefeated day of action.

Content to have an opportunity to grapple, Corban (0-2) will continue to seek out ways to safely compete in the days ahead, while adhering to all local guidelines related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Stay tuned to CorbanWarriors.com for the latest updates on the team's 2020-21 season.