CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa. – The Norwich University wrestling team sent sophomore Kyle Merritt (Hope Valley, R.I.) to the NCAA Division III National Championships with the goal of coming home with an All-American, and saw that goal accomplished as the sophomore battled his way into day two of the event.

Merritt is the first All-American from Norwich University since 1999 when Bob Ulrich finished eighth at 133-pounds.

Merritt's day started with a defeat against the No. 1 overall seed in the tournament.  However, Merritt recovered for a major decision victory against Brandon Bowles of Muhlenberg College. 

Merritt's final match of Friday saw him take on Jake Drexler of the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire in a thriller.  Drexler held a 5-2 lead after the first two periods of the match. Merritt battled back, choosing to start the final period in the bottom position. 

Merritt was able to earn the point for the escape, cutting the deficit down to two points before earning a stalling point, again shrinking the deficit to one. Merritt then was able to earn a takedown with just over 40 seconds remaining in the match to take a 6-5 lead.  He also was able to stay on top of his opponent earning the additional riding time.

Merritt will continue his season tomorrow at day two of the NCAA Division III National Championships, where he will face the six seed in Alex Villar of North Central.  Merritt can place as high as third tomorrow, while not being able to place lower than eighth.