Bockman's Season Ends with 3-2 Decision

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Evan Bockman and Utah Valley University wrestling saw its season come to a close following the junior's narrow defeat at the NCAA Wrestling Championships at the T-Mobile Center on Friday.

Bockman, making his third appearance at the pinnacle of college wrestling, was edged by Northern Iowa's Wyatt Voelker, 3-2, with riding time providing the difference in the match. A second-period escape by Voelker accounted for the match's only point until the waning seconds, but not before a nearly five-minute delay to adjust the riding time came with 34 seconds left on the clock.

After the riding time was corrected, Bockman created some space with a hip heist to a reversal and briefly had Voelker's back exposed but for only one count. Voelker was then able to escape to tie the match at 2-2 and then avoided an inside trip attempt by Bockman at the buzzer. Riding time had amassed to 1:13, giving Voelker the point and the win.

"Evan has had a tremendous year. He has improved in some areas that helped him beat quite a few NCAA qualifiers throughout the season," said UVU head coach Greg Williams. "We are proud of him and how he has represented us all season long. With his work ethic, he will continue to progress and give himself a great opportunity to beat the very best at the championships next year."

Friday also marked the end of an era for Utah Valley University wrestling and Williams, who last fall announced that he'd retire following the season. Williams received a resounding ovation inside the T-Mobile Center when he was recognized by the public address announcer following the match. Williams' storied 18 years at Utah Valley has been highlighted by five All-Americans, 46 NCAA qualifiers, and one of the most academically successful and accomplished programs in all of NCAA Division I wrestling.

Adam Hall is set to officially take over the program following the conclusion of the championships and his time as the associate head coach at North Carolina State. NC State is currently in eighth place and has six wrestlers still competing entering Friday night's session, including semifinalist Trent Hidlay at 197 pounds.