Falcons open new season with win over Western Colorado

USAFA, Colo.- Air Force managed to kick-off its 2022-23 campaign in solid style, defeating Western Colorado 29-18 at Clune Arena.

"It's always good to get another season started off with a win," said head coach Sam Barber. "Some guys stepped up and got us bonus-point decisions where we needed them."

Sixth-ranked heavyweight Wyatt Hendrickson opened the night with a forfeit win, as Western Colorado left the heavyweight slot open. The Falcons immediately led 6-0.

At 125 pounds, Quinn Melofchik found it tough sledding against Patrick Allis, dropping a 9-3 decision. Air Force then reeled off consecutive major decision wins at 133 and 141 pounds. Cody Phippen cruised to a 12-0 major decision win, while Garrett Kuchan took care of business with a 15-5 major decision victory.

Holding a 14-3 lead, the Mountaineers made things interesting. Western Colorado created back-to-back pins at 149 and 157 pounds to overtake Air Force 15-14.

Giano Petrucelli got the Falcons back on track in his bout at 165 pounds, overpowering WCU's Cole Mortensen to a 13-2 major decision win. Sam Wolf followed Petrucelli, and gave his opponent Cole Hernandez little room to maneuver. Wolf went on to win via 17-1 technical fall.

"This whole season is going to be about growth and development," said Barber. "We have to see if we can shorten the learning curve with some of our younger guys."

Next, The team splits into two contingencies top compete on two fronts on November 12. Falcons will travel to Laramie, Wyoming, to compete in the Cowboy Open while their teammates travel to Appalachian State's Mountaineer Open in Boone, North Carolina.

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