Ohio Wrestling Team Kicks Off 2025-26 Season with Strong Performances at Southeast Open
The Ohio University wrestling team launched its 2025-26 campaign with a series of compelling performances at the Southeast Open in Salem, Virginia, on Sunday. The Bobcats showcased both veteran resilience and promising freshman talent, setting a positive tone for the season ahead.
Early Wins and Competitive Spirit in Open Bracket
Jeremy Olszko, a redshirt sophomore from Northfield, Ohio, secured the Bobcats’ first victory of the day in the 184 lb. weight class. After receiving a bye in the initial round, Olszko defeated a competitor from North Carolina by a 10-5 decision. The match saw a dynamic shift in momentum, as Olszko overcame an early takedown by his opponent, responding with an escape, a takedown of his own, and a nearfall in the second period to ultimately secure the win.
In the 165 lb. bracket, redshirt junior Jack Lledo of Penn Valley, Pennsylvania, faced a tough challenge, falling in the round of 16 with a 17-4 major decision. Demonstrating grit, Lledo transitioned to the consolation bracket and earned an 8-2 decision victory against Maryland. He strategically utilized takedowns in both the first and third periods, complemented by an escape in the second, to secure the win.
Junior Ryan Meek, wrestling at 125 lbs. and hailing from Lubbering, Missouri, also navigated a challenging path. After a bye, Meek suffered a narrow 6-5 decision loss in the round of 16, sending him to the consolation bracket. He rebounded with a decisive 2-0 decision victory in the consolation round of 16.
Redshirt junior Logan Cravatas (Medina, Ohio), competing in the 157 lb. weight class, initially lost to NC State in the round of 32, moving him into the consolation bracket. Cravatas then showcased his offensive prowess, securing a quick 7-1 fall with consecutive takedowns and a nearfall in the first period. He continued his success in the second consolation match, earning a commanding 14-3 major decision against an opponent from VMI. Cravatas established an early lead with a first-period takedown, adding another takedown and an escape point in the second, and finishing strong with two more takedowns in the third.
Weber Claims Title in Freshman/Sophomore Division
The most significant achievement of the day came from freshman Carson Weber of Shorewood, Illinois, who dominated the 149 lb. freshman/sophomore bracket, ultimately claiming the title. Weber began his impressive run with a 12-3 major decision victory over an opponent from Presbyterian in the round of 16. He continued his winning streak with a 4-0 decision in the quarterfinals and a 12-1 major decision in the semi-finals. The final match saw Weber achieve a dominant victory by technical fall, defeating his opponent 15-0 with 5:31 remaining.
Looking Ahead
The Bobcats will next compete at the Ohio Showcase in Athens on Saturday, November 8. The event is scheduled to begin at 5 p.m. and will be available for live streaming on ESPN+. .
