LBC Wrestlers Capture NCCAA Crown

"We're young butthat won't stop us. Istill feel we're going to have a good year," commented head wrestling coach Bob Bonheim,and theydid.

The Flames' long determined dream became a reality atGrantham, Pa., when they won the National Christian College Athletic Association Tournament over last year's title-holder Messiah College.

With over fourteen schools competing from Texas, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Illinois,andVirginiaforstarters,L.B.C.took home fourchampionship weightdivisions

Wayne Smith, 126-pound division, Jesse Castro, 142, and Tom Brittain 177,were national winners for L.B.C

Wayne Smith won allout of 12 dual matches and 18 out of 21 tournament matches He scored 94 total dual and tournament points.Wayne hadthe most winsin a season.

Tom Brittain also was an outstanding champion that added much talent and strength tothe team. Tom won 9 dual matches out of13with onedraw.

Jesse Castro, a Washington and Lee class and regional mat champion inCalifornia adds to Bonheim's 142 class.

Dick Whitaker, a 190pound senior, scored a total of 87V2 points to the overall dual tournament record Dick gave an outstanding performance fortheL.B.C. Flames.

L.B.C. overall record was 10-3 for the 1976-77 season. For now, Bonheim's dream hasbeen fulfilled but it's also the start of great expectation foryears to come.