Completed Event: Men's Wrestling versus Harold Nichols Cyclone Open on January 18, 2026 , , One Champ
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Men's Wrestling
Harold Nichols Cyclone Open
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Iowa State University Athletics
Event Stokes Anticipation of ISU Wrestling Season
10.17.2008 | Men's Wrestling
CLIVE, Iowa ? Iowa State wrestling fans donated several thousand dollars through auctions and got to meet the ISU grappling team up close and in person Thursday during the third annual Cyclone Wrestling Preseason Kickoff Dinner at 7 Flags. The event, which was hosted through the generosity of former ISU national champion Frank Santana and the Cyclone Wrestling Club, brought more than 200 fans to Clive to hear from head coach Cael Sanderson, his staff and the ISU wrestlers themselves.
Iowa State athletics director Jamie Pollard addressed the crowd, affirming the efforts of ISU's staff and wrestlers, while recognizing the contributions of the Cyclone Wrestling Club. Pollard, who personally attended the last two NCAA Championships, spoke to the national achievement of the ISU wrestling program and its high expectations.
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The evening also included an in house video created by the ISU wrestling coaching staff that was a humorous knockoff production in the tradition of “The Office,” Cael Sanderson's favorite television show. The evening also included a social and autograph session, followed by dinner served by Lynch BBQ.
Cael Sanderson, along with associate head coach Cody Sanderson and new assistant coach Casey Cunningham, served as featured speakers. Wrestling team members Jake Varner, Nick Gallick and Mitch Mueller talked about their goals for the upcoming season and spoke about the team's preseason retreat.
“We want this event to grow in the future just as our crowds continue to grow,” Cael Sanderson said. “We appreciate your support because the wrestling club and the people here tonight are the foundation for the improvement we are making.”
An incredible opportunity to go on fishing and boating in Canada with Cael Sanderson was auctioned. The package includes a four-day, three-night stay at the Lake of the Woods, Ontario.
An original drawing by Cael Sanderson, a sketch of the 1987 Iowa State NCAA Championship wrestling team All-Americans and former head coach Jim Gibbons, was also auctioned off for bid.
Those attending the kickoff dinner were also able to register for a chance to win four tickets to the 79th Annual Division I Wrestling Championships in St. Louis, Mo., March 19-21, 2009. The winner will be announced at the season-opening dual against Utah Valley on Nov. 13.
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