Jimmy Hamel Named MAC Wrestler of the Week

BUFFALO, NY— University at Buffalo junior Jimmy Hamel has been selected as the Mid-American Conference Wrestler of the Week. The junior defeated 12th nationally-ranked Erik Schuth of Ohio, 4-3 in ultimate overtime at the Bulls' conference home opener on Saturday afternoon. Hamel's selection marks the third time a Bull has received the honor this season.

Facing his third nationally-ranked opponent in three straight bouts, Hamel pulled off the biggest upset of his career by defeating 12th-ranked Schuth. Following a scoreless first period, Schuth scored the bout's first point to start the second period off an escape. Facing a 1-0 deficit to start the third, Hamel was able to roll out with a somersault away from Schuth's grasp for an escape to tie the bout at 1-1. With less than a minute remaining, Schuth would be docked a penalty point for locking his hands to give Hamel a 2-1 lead. Schuth was able to send the match to overtime by earning 1:19 of riding time.

In the first round of the 30-second overtime, each would exchange an escape leading to a continuous battle. After the second set of scoreless 30-second overtime periods, Hamel would rip away from Schuth's grasp in ultimate overtime for an escape to capture a 4-3 decision over the 12th nationally-ranked wrestler giving Schuth his first dual loss of the season.

The tri-captain holds a season overall record of 22-7 and 10-2 dual meet record, occupying second place in each category. Hamel has now defeated two top-15 wrestlers in the last two weeks as he defeated 14th-ranked Richard Starks, 4-2 by sudden victory at the New York State Intercollegiate Wrestling Championships on January 24.

Hamel's selection as MAC Wrestler of the Week marks the second time in his career that he has garnered such an honor.

With 82 career overall victories, Hamel sits in 12th place in all-time career overall victories. Including Saturday's victory over Schuth, Hamel has compiled 38 career dual victories to occupy sixth place in career dual victories.

Continuing in MAC dual action, the Bulls (7-5-1, 0-1 MAC) will travel to Eastern Michigan on Wednesday, February 3 to face the Eagles at 7:00 pm. The Bulls remain on the road as they travel to MAC opponent and 19th nationally-ranked Kent State on Sunday, February 7 at 1:00 pm.