Neither Hell nor high water will keep the wrestling team from attempting to win its fourth straight EIWA tournament this weekend in Bethlehem, PA. The meet represents an opportunity for the wrestlers on the second-ranked squad in the nation to qualify for the NCAA tournament in their respective weight classes.

The Red has not lost a match since a Jan. 31 tilt at Iowa St. Since then, Cornell has finished off six straight opponents in dominating fashion, never allowing more than six points and scoring on average just over 40 points. This weekend is more than a regular meet, though, with a chance to qualify for the NCAA tournament on the line for the Cornell wrestlers.

Takedown: Kyle Dake (1) takes down his opponent, something that has become a common theme for an impressive Red team this season. - By: Matt HintsaLast year, the Red took four individual championships at the EIWA tournament and qualified seven wresters for the NCAA tournament. Senior Troy Nickerson, sophomore Cam Simaz and junior Mack Lewnes will look to defend their EIWA titles at 125, 197 and 174 pounds, respectively. In addition to his individual title last year, Nickerson took home the Sheridan Award, given to the wrester that wins the most matches by fall in the fewest amount of time.

This year, the Red could match its 2009 accomplishments at the EIWA as it brings seven nationally ranked wrestlers to the tournament. According to NCAA rankings on wrestlingreport.com, Lewnes (174) and freshman Kyle Drake (141) lead the pack, both ranked first nationally. Nickerson follows close behind, placing second in his weight class, while Simaz, juniors Mike Grey and Justin Kerber, sophomore Steve Bosak are all ranked in the top-20 in their respective weight classes.