Four Cowboys Set to Compete in 2024 U.S. Open U20 Event

From the desk of Bud Denega

Wyoming Athletic Department

LARAMIE, Wyo. (4/24/24) – The University of Wyoming wrestling team will have representation at the U.S. Open this week in Las Vegas, Nevada. A contingent of four Cowboys will compete in the U20 Freestyle competition inside the South Pointe Hotel and Casino.

Cole Brooks (65 kg), Sloan Swan (74 kg), Winston McBride (125 kg) and Lane Catlin (125 kg) are the ones slated to go for the Pokes. Their event begins Friday at 11 a.m. before wrapping up Saturday with Medal Matches.

“Having the opportunity to compete is always a plus, and this event will test you against some of the toughest wrestlers in your age group in the country,” head coach Mark Branch said. “It’s a different style of wrestling, but there are also so many similarities. At the end of the day, wrestling is wrestling. We have the opportunity to qualify for the World Team Trials in June with the chance to go to the U20 World Championships in Spain.”

Finishing in the top eight is the goal for each of the quartet of Cowboys. Earning one of those places advances wrestlers to the U20 World Team Trials in Geneva, Ohio, next month.

Brooks has already accomplished that feat by way of his performance at Junior Trials. Joey Novak – who isn’t competing this week – has qualified for the U20 World Team Trials, as well.