Otero Wrestling Sends Two Athletes to the National Tournament

On Thursday, March 3, two Otero wrestlers, Marquis Kemp, and Adam Schulz, will compete in the National Junior College Athletic Association National Championship for wrestling. The tournament will take place in Council Bluffs, Iowa March 3-5.

Marquis Kemp, wrestling at 133, will face Mason McClure, of Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology on Thursday. Kemp is in his third year at Otero and is a sophomore. His record is 12-7 on the season. He placed second at the Region IX Tournament that was held in Sterling at Northeastern Junior College. Kemp earned 8th place at the national tournament last year, making him an All-American.

Tommy George, Head Wrestling Coach shared, “It’s been a joy seeing (Kemp) get his feet under him, becoming more confident and figuring out who he is as a person. He’s a super hard-working individual, he puts in the time on his own, does cardio in the morning on his own. He’s a leader in the practice room and he’s a captain of this team. He has a chance to be the first two-time All-American at Otero, so we’re excited to see that pan out this weekend.”

Adam Schulz, at 174, will take on Ross Abram of Jamestown Community College. Schulz is a freshman at Otero and his record is 7-7. He finished in third place at the Region IX Tournament.

According to John Lewis, Assistant Wrestling Coach, “Adam is a young kid with a lot of potential and great opportunity. The tenacity he has when facing adversity is big and he’s one of those guys that is going to continue to grow the longer he’s on the mat. He’s got a bright future ahead of him and I’m really proud of him. When the gas tanks running empty and we’re getting in deep waters he stays in the fight and continues to battle on and work to win and score points. I’m really excited for him.”

Kemp and Schulz will wrestle their first match on Thursday, March 3, 2022, and the tournament will continue through Saturday. Look for updates on the Otero Wrestling website.

For any questions about the Wrestling program at Otero, contact Tommy George at 719-384-6913 or John Lewis at 719-384-6974.