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SMSU Wrestling Announces 2008-09 Captains

October 23, 2008

MARSHALL, MINN - Southwest Minnesota State wrestling head coach Jesse Nelson announced Thursday the team¹s three captains for the 2008-09 season. Senior Michal Barrie (Westbrook, Minn), junior C.D. Johnson (LeRoy, Mich.) and senior Tyler Johnson (Harrisburg, S.D.) were selected as the leaders of the Mustangs for the upcoming season.

Barrie, who redshirted last season, finished his 2007-08 campaign with a 3-5 record at opens. The 133-pounder placed fifth at the NCAA North Regionals in 2007. Barrie wrestled at Ridgewater College for two years prior to joining the Mustang squad.

"Michal's experience is going to be invaluable to this young team," Nelson said. "His wrestling know-how has really helped this team prepare for the season."

C.D. Johnson, a two-year letterwinner at SMSU, posted a 19-20 overall record at 165 pounds last season. He was also named to the NCAA Division II All-Academic team.

"C.D. is a a great leader--on and off the mat," Nelson said. "He's undoubtedly one of the hardest workers we have on this team."

Tyler Johnson, a returning national qualifier at 184 pounds, compiled a record of 31-19 last season. He is the lone returning SMSU wrestler with national experience. The senior's 31 wins in 2007-08 ranks 12th in school history for wins in a season.

"Tyler is going to make a great captain because he leads by example," Nelson said. "He's one of those athletes you can count on to keep everyone in check."

SMSU opens the season on Nov. 1 when it hosts the Captain Dan Open in Marshall. Start time is slated for 9 a.m.