April 3, 2001

Evanston, Ill. - Freshman Scott Barker and junior Kevin Herron placed fourth and seventh, respectively, wrestling independently at the University National tournament at Northwestern University in Evanston, Ill. last weekend.

In the 213-pound bracket, Barker lost to Nick Preston of Ohio State in the consolation finals to earn the fourth place medal. In the 286-pound bracket, Herron won the seventh place match by forfeit.

"It's good to see the guys wrestling well in the off-season," said Tiger Head Coach Brian Smith. "It keeps them in shape, and they are able to keep developing in the spring and summer, which will only help them next season. Barker and Herron wrestled very well to place at the University National tournament, which is comparable to the NCAA Championships," Smith said.

Other Missouri participants in the tournament were J.P. Reese, Tyron Woodley, Tim Hawks, Jon Sioredas and Matt Turner. Woodley and Sioredas lost in the medal-qualifying round.

Next up for the Tigers on the independent tournament circuit is the Freestyle National tournament in Las Vegas, Nev., on April 12. Jeremy Spates, Matt Turner, Kevin Herron, Scott Barker, and Tyron Woodley will compete in the tournament.