George Mason University Athletics

George Mason wrestler Nathan Higley earned a spot on the podium at the Ken Kraft Midlands Championships after finishing in eighth place at 149 pounds.

One of three Patriots to advance to day two, Higley defeated NCAA Qualifier Jacob Verkleeren from UVA that clinch a spot on the podium. The freshman dropped two close matches to close out the tournament, a 7-5 decision to Pitt's Tyler Badgett before Cade Balestrini edged Higley in the seventh place match, 9-6. 

Higley opened the tournament with a 9-7 win against Virginia's Denton Spencer. He fell to nationally ranked Sam Hilegas (WVA) before winning two matches, including a fall against two-time NCAA Qualifier Graham Rooks from Indiana.