DRAKE VOMBAUR (CENTER) Came out the 113-pound champion at the Brian Keck Memorial USAW Preseason nationals in Des Moines, Iowa.
Drake Vombaur’s performance at the 2024 Preseason Nationals was nothing short of electrifying. As a sophomore at Severance High School, Drake entered the prestigious Hy-Vee Center in Iowa ready to show that he is a force to be reckoned with on the national stage. His journey to victory over the weekend was filled with intense battles, technical prowess, and the grit of a seasoned competitor, leaving fans in awe and competitors well aware of his immense potential.
The tournament kicked off with a smooth start for Drake, who received a bye in the Round of 32, giving him the focus and readiness needed for his first match against Gavin Wolters from Askren Wrestling Academy. In classic Vombaur style, he wrestled aggressively, controlling every phase of the match. He scored in each period, achieving a 9-0 major decision without giving up a single point—a flawless opening to what would become a dominant showing.
In the quarterfinals, Drake faced Hendrix Schwab of Immortal Athletics Wrestling Club, a match that began scoreless in the first period. The tension was high, but Drake’s wrestling IQ shone through. He executed a reversal early in the second period, and from there, he asserted his control, forcing Schwab into multiple stalling calls. A swift takedown in the third period cemented his 7-0 decision victory, showcasing Drake’s ability to dominate through both strategy and endurance.
By the semifinals, Drake’s path to the top faced its toughest test yet: Nico DeSalvo from Sebolt Wrestling Academy. The match started out as a tactical deadlock with a 0-0 tie after the first period. But as the match wore on, it evolved into one of those classic battles that wrestling fans live for. DeSalvo took a 7-3 lead late in the third period, and things looked grim. Yet in true Vombaur fashion, Drake flipped the match on its head with a jaw-dropping reversal and a four-point near-fall in the final seconds. The comeback was legendary, earning him a 9-7 decision victory and solidifying his reputation as “The Comeback Kid.” Fans could hardly contain their excitement after witnessing Drake’s determination, heart, and technical brilliance.
When he advanced to the finals against Maxwell Bradley of Tuttle Wrestling Club, the anticipation was palpable. Drake entered the mat calm and collected, despite the roaring crowd and high stakes. This match would be a testament to his control and discipline. The first period saw a thrilling exchange, with Bradley briefly catching Drake with a reversal and a Peterson roll that surprised even seasoned observers. But Drake responded within seconds, executing a reversal of his own to regain control. From that point forward, he dominated Bradley with relentless riding time, forcing multiple stalling calls on his opponent. Drake closed out the match with a 9-5 decision, sealing his title as the 2024 Preseason Nationals Champion.
VOMBAUR CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH VS. MAXWELL BRADLEY VIA FLOW WRESTLING:
Across his tournament run, Drake demonstrated exceptional technical ability and resilience. Outscoring his opponents 35-12 and amassing nearly two full matches’ worth of riding time, he left no doubt that he belongs among the nation’s elite. This win at Preseason Nationals adds another chapter to Drake’s budding legacy and signals that he’s just getting started. With his sophomore season ahead, fans, coaches, and fellow wrestlers alike are eager to see where this incredible young talent will go next.
Drake’s championship journey was a masterclass in heart, skill, and the spirit of competition. For those lucky enough to witness it, his victory at the Hy-Vee Center will be remembered as the moment he truly announced his presence in USA Wrestling.
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