May 31, 2006 - Umbehauer AWN Freshman All-American

May 31, 2006
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

College Wrestling
Rider’s Umbehauer AWN Freshman All-American

LAWRENCEVILLE—Rider University freshman Doug Umbehauer was named to the second team Amateur Wrestling News All-Rookie Team. “This is a tremendous honor,” said Rider head coach Gary Taylor.  “Doug had a great season and to be recognized as the second best freshman in the entire nation at his weight class verify’s that.”

Umbehauer (Shamong, N.J./Lenape) advanced to the NCAA Division I Nationals in 2006, after compiling a 20-6 record and finishing runner-up at the Colonial Athletic Association Championships. “I didn’t even know there were Freshman All-Americans until the coaches told me,” said Umbehauer.  “I’m pretty excited about it, since the coaches made such a big deal about it.”

“Doug’s work ethic, determination and attitude are what make him so successful,” said Taylor, who collected his 300th career win this year.  “He truly deserves this honor.”

A member of the CAA All-Rookie Team, Umbehauer won his 174 pound weight class at both the Keystone Classic and the Mat Town USA meets this year. “Winning Mat Town and Keystone were important for my confidence,” said Umbehauer, “and winning those meets helped me achieve what I did this year. Coming off an injury I was happy to be able to do as well as I did at CAAs and go to Nationals. But I wasn’t happy with the way things went at Nationals this year (0-2). I’m working hard to come back better. My goal is to be an All-American next year.”

“Doug has very lofty goals in wrestling at the college level,” said Taylor. “This proves that he is well on his way to accomplishing them.  We will be looking for him on the podium at the NCAAs in the very near future."

-RU-