May 7, 2003
Meyer and Crandall Named Team MVPs at Wrestling Banquet
On Saturday evening May 2, 2003, the Truman State University wrestling team held its annual awards banquet. Dinner was served followed by guest speaker and honored alumnus Brad Kieffer.
Kieffer was an NCAA all-America in 2000 for the Bulldogs, and is currently in his third year of Medical School at the University of Illinois.
Head coach Dave Schutter recognized Midwest regional champions Merrick Meyer (St. Charles, Mo./Frances Howell North) (141-lbs.) and Corey Crandall (Buckner, Mo./Ft. Osage) (157-lbs.). Meyer and Crandall, then were awarded their NCAA national qualifier certificates.
Meyer was recognized for his tremendous season record of 33-3 and national runner-up finish, and was presented with an NCAA all-America certificate and ring.
Crandall became the 11th Bulldog to post a 30-win season as he finished with a 30-12 record this year and with a career record of 93-65 since 1999.
The award for Most Valuable Wrestler for the 2003 season was shared by Crandall and Meyer.
The Eagle Award was presented to Curt and Debra Crandall. The award honors the fan, alumnus, parent or donor that, through many hours of commitment, dedication and financial support, has made an impact this season on the Truman wrestling program. During four years of college wrestling, the Crandalls never missed one of their son Corey's matches.
The award for Most Courageous Wrestler was shared by sophomores Matt Sonn (St. Louis/Ladue) and Phil Esposito (Kansas City, Mo./Park Hill South). Sonn filled in after the loss of heavy weight Bryan Jovick and went 3-24 to help the 'Dogs' lineup. Esposito struggled to an 0-10 record at 125 and 133 pounds.
The award for the Newcomer of the Year went to redshirt freshman Chris Pivirotto (St. Charles, Mo./Lindbergh) who was 17-17 at 165 pounds. The Bulldog Tough Award went to sophomore Allen Stokes (Kansas City, Mo./Hickman Mills), and the Aaron Berns Scholarship Award went to sophomore Gregg Nurrenbern (Fulton, Mo.).
Stokes was 13-17 at 133 pounds and Nurrenbern had the third-most wins on the team (26-7) and was ranked among the top eight in the nation at 184 pounds during the season. Nurrenbern was the only other Bulldog to place at the Midwest regional meet, besides Meyer and Crandall, taking fifth overall.