FAYETTE, Mo. – The Missouri Baptist Men's Wrestling program struggled in more ways than one on the opening night of the 2022-23 season, losing a dual with Central Methodist University by a score of 42-7.
 
The Spartans began the evening at a deficit as they were unable to send anyone out for the opening match at 125 pounds. That was one of two weight classes MBU was unable to field on this first night of competition, having to also forfeit at 157.
 
Highlights of the evening for MBU were sophomore ET Rodgers at 141 and freshmen Joel Campbell at 149. Rodgers dominated his match throughout before scoring a major decision (14-4) over Zachary Godar of CMU.  Campbell's match literally went down to wire but he gained MBU three points with a 7-6 decision over Lukas Eagle.
 
After the 149 pound match, and even after the slow start, the Spartans still only trailed the Eagles 12-7. However, they forfeited the next match at 157 pounds and would not secure a single point in the remaining five matches.  Freshman Camden Meeks came the closest to adding to the team total as his match at 174 was a nail-biter as he lost in overtime 7-5. 

In the 10 matches, MBU won two by decision, but lost two by decision, two by forfeit, and four via fall.
 
The Spartans men's team is back at it this weekend when they travel to Park City, Kan. for the Falcon Invite, hosted by Friends University.