Rodriguez Wins Final X, Earns World Team Member Spot

Doane University senior-to-be Cristelle Rodriguez went 2-0 on the day at Final X and earned her spot on Team USA for women's freestyle wrestling. She defeated Everest Leydecker (Ariz.) in the best-of-three series to win the 55kg title and clinch a spot on the senior level team. Rodriguez had already clinched a spot on the U23 team as well by winning the U.S. Championships in April.

 

Rodriguez opened action on Saturday afternoon at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, with a 12-8 victory over Leydecker. She jumped out to a big lead, 9-0, only to have Leydecker take the next eight points to pull within one point. Rodriguez was able to add three points late to seal the victory.

 

In the second match of the afternoon, Rodriguez again led from start to finish as she posted an 8-5 victory. She picked up a takedown in the final 30 seconds to once again seal the victory.

 

The World Championships are scheduled for September in Zagreb, Croatia. Rodriguez will have a busy schedule leading up to those championships with additional overseas events.