Beavers Battle in Decatur

DECATUR, IL — The Blackburn College wrestling team squared off against Millikin on Thursday night, facing a tough lineup that resulted in a Millikin win. Despite the final margin, Blackburn wrestlers continued to compete hard and gain valuable mat time against a deep Millikin squad.

Gaven Vollintine opened the dual at 149 pounds, taking on Sabri Sino in a fast-paced match that pushed the tempo early. Tyler Tarallo stepped in at 165 and battled Joey Jens, while Robert Lee Tucker competed twice on the night, wrestling at 174 and again in extra matches, showing grit and willingness to answer the call for the Beavers.

Keaton Wilhelm represented Blackburn at 184 pounds and returned later for an extra bout, and heavyweight Remington Hiser fought through a physical match at 285. Additional mat time came from LaQuaris Moore and Jaidyn Lee in extra matches, with Lee highlighting the late bouts by earning a fall over Millikin's Ronan Byrne.

While the scoreboard favored Millikin, the night provided key experience for a Blackburn lineup that continues to grow and develop. The Beavers look to build on the lessons from the dual as they prepare for upcoming competition.

Head Coach Tim McGuire praised the team's effort and the competitive atmosphere of the event.

"I liked how the guys fought tonight. I was proud that they were willing to wrestle 2 matches in a row without much rest. They are always ready to wrestle anyone, anytime. We still need to relax out there in dual meets in-order to wrestle our best. Right now, the results are not good enough, but everyone is working in the right direction."

Results from the dual:

125 – FFT
133 – FFT
141 – FFT
149 – Gaven Vollintine – loss
157 – FFT
165 – Tyler Tarallo – loss
184 – Robert Tucker – loss
197 – FFT
HWT – Remington Hiser – loss

Exhibition matches:

157 – LaQuaris Moore – lost two matches
174 – Robert Tucker – loss
184 – Keaton Wilhelm – loss
HWT – Jayden Lee – won by pin, lost one

The Beavers are back in action this weekend at the SLIAC Championship.