Four Kent State wrestlers traveled to Detroit in hopes of earning All-American honors, but all four were eliminated in Thursday’s first round of the NCAA National Championships.

Senior Chad Sportelli was beaten 9-4 by Lock Haven’s Obe Blanc in the 125 lb-class.

Michigan State senior Nick Simmons and his signature move, “the excruciating spladle,” were too much for Flashes sophomore Danny Mitcheff. Simmons – ranked No.1 in the 133 lb-class – won, 13-2.

Kent State junior Kurt Gross, dropped his 157 lb bout, 7-5, to Missouri sophomore Michael Chandler.

In the heavyweight division, sophomore Jermail Porter lost to Oregon State senior Ty Watterson, 5-2.