The UCLA Wrestling team capped off an impressive season with a stellar performance at the National Collegiate Wrestling Association (NCWA) National Championships in Shreveport, Louisiana. The Bruins sent a talented team of six wrestlers who had an outstanding performance at the prestigious national tournament.
Leading the way was 2023-2024 President
Mikayla Silverman, who made UCLA Wrestling history by becoming the program's first National Champion. After going undefeated in the state and conference tournaments, Mikayla continued her streak to win it out on the national stage, dominating the 155 pound division with a pin in every match. Silverman's remarkable achievement is a testament to her hard work and dedication, and she expressed pride in the team's accomplishments, especially considering the challenges they faced in rebuilding the program after the COVID-19 pandemic. "I am super proud of the entire team for their dedication on and off the mat," she said. "With finals around the corner, sending six people to nationals was incredible." Only two years prior, the team was focused on rebuilding the club after the pandemic had closed facilities, letting competition fall to the wayside. "The improvement is huge; I'm excited for next year to see how our team will change and progress."
Adding to the team's success,
Isaiah Duran secured his place as the first men's All-American in UCLA Wrestling history, wrestling in the 133 pound division. Isaiah put on a dominant display throughout the season, including a conference championship win over the previous year's titleholder. Despite falling in the semifinals at nationals, Duran battled through the consolation bracket to claim an impressive sixth-place finish.
The journey to nationals was not without its challenges, as the team juggled intense training with academic commitments and battled through state and conference tournaments. Only the top 6 individuals at the conference level qualify for nationals, thinning an already skilled West Coast Conference. However, the wrestlers' determination shone through, with every athlete who competed at the conference tournament earning a spot at nationals. The Bruins also showcased their academic depth, with 5 out of 6 wrestlers earning Academic All-American honors.
Senior
Joseph Chun, wrestling in the 165 pound weight class, shared his experience competing at the national level. "Wrestling in a tournament knowing that every opponent had fought their way there was a simultaneously humbling and inspiring experience," said Joseph. "After I got knocked out of my bracket, all that was left for me to do was support my teammates who were still in, sharing their excitement in victories and their disappointment in losses," shared Joseph, reflecting on the team's cohesion.
Freshman
Lavinia Lei, who competed at 143 pounds, showed her admiration for her teammates' performances and her renewed motivation for the future. "Watching Mikayla and Isaiah make it all the way to the finals and perform at that level was incredible," she said "And that wanting to place at nationals and become an All-American isn't all that far-fetched of a goal to set for myself. Next year we'll see."
2024-2025 President
Alysa Phattanaphibul, who wrestled in the 116 pound division, echoed her teammate's enthusiasm for the future: "I think it's incredible what we've been able to accomplish together, because it takes a whole team to bring people to the national stage. The level of wrestling, commitment, and sportsmanship I've seen from my teammates is really inspiring."
Head coach Dave Guerrero expressed his pride for the team and their character: "This year at the National Championships was the most intense three days I have experienced as a coach and the most rewarding," said Dave. "Every one of our wrestlers exceeded my expectations in performance and in their character. It is often harder to be humble in victory than it is in defeat. The character they displayed was inspiring. These are the future leaders in the world. We are in good hands."
As the UCLA Wrestling program continues to rebuild and grow, the 2023-24 season will undoubtedly be remembered as a great club achievement, showcasing the team's talent, resilience, and character. With a promising future ahead, the Bruins are poised to build upon this year's success and cement their place as a force to be reckoned with in collegiate wrestling.
