ALLEN, Texas – March 12–14, 2015

The National Collegiate Wrestling Association (NCWA) National Championships, held this year from March 12–14, 2015 at the Credit Union of Texas Event Center in Allen, TX, serve as the postseason pinnacle for non-NCAA wrestling programs across the country. The NCWA features a diverse field of competition, including emerging club programs from major universities, small colleges, military academies, and junior colleges. Over 80 schools participated, showcasing some of the nation’s best club-level talent.

For Fresno State Wrestling Club, the tournament marked its first-ever appearance at nationals, following a year of rapid growth, local dominance, and determination. Four Bulldog wrestlers earned the right to compete among the NCWA’s best, and each brought their fight to the national stage.

Tournament Recap

165 lbs – Mason Temple
Temple opened the tournament with a strong start, pinning Abdelaziz BenQadi (Colorado State) in the pigtail round. In the opening round, he battled Tyler Vogt (Rochester CC) in a razor-close match, falling just short 3–2. In the consolation bracket, Temple responded with another fall, this time over Joe Knarr (Penn State DuBois). His tournament came to a close in the third round, dropping a 3–0 decision to Jamal Reynolds (Mercer).

197 lbs – Jesus Izazaga
Izazaga, Fresno State’s first-ever automatic qualifier, opened with a pin over Ahmed Khaloufi (University of Akron) in the pigtail round. In the next match, he faced Jake Ferris (Central Washington) and dropped a 10–2 decision. In the consolation bracket, Izazaga fought hard but fell 9–3 to Zachary Ragot (University of Maine–Orono), ending his tournament run.

235 lbs – Jose Maldonado
Maldonado faced a difficult draw, falling by technical fall (19–1) to Trae Rodriguez (Texas State) in his opening bout. In the consolation round, he matched up with Humphrey Akujobi (Michigan), where he battled but dropped a 9–2 decision, closing out his tournament.

285 lbs – Jesus Marez-Lopez
Marez-Lopez began the national tournament against Luis Pinto (Rochester CC), falling via pin. He bounced back in the consolations, scoring a fall over Michael Brannen (New Hampshire). His run was halted in the next round when he was pinned by Dave Stratton (Washington State).

While none of the four Fresno State wrestlers reached the podium in Texas, the experience marked a milestone moment for the program. Just one season into NCWA competition, the Bulldogs proved they could compete at the state and regional levels, and now have their first taste of the national spotlight.

From hosting the 2015 NCWA California State Championships to qualifying four athletes to nationals, the team’s growth has been undeniable. With foundational leaders, determined athletes, and increasing community support, Fresno State Wrestling Club has set a new standard for what’s possible in NCWA competition.

This trip to nationals is only the beginning. The Bulldogs are here to stay—and they’re building for even more in the seasons ahead.

Full Results