PARK CITY, Kan. - Fulton native, William Woods University freshman Elijah Brocksmith (174 pounds) competed in the 68th Annual NAIA Men's Wrestling National Championships, the Owls' second national qualifier in the program's second year, Thursday at Park City Arena.

Brocksmith fell by a 1:19 pinfall to No. 6 Roman Garcia of No. 16 Central Methodist University in Championship Round 1. Then, Brocksmith's nationals run concluded after losing by a 10-7 decision to No. 25 Cornerstone University's Joe Lashuay in Consolation Round 1.  

"Wins and losses come and go, but it's about perseverance," Brocksmith said. "It was an honor to represent William Woods at nationals. It didn't go the way I wanted. However, I learned a lot and look forward to being back next season."

"Wrestling is a match of wills, and there isn't very much room for error at this level," William Woods men's wrestling coach Jacob Lorentz said. "Elijah's first opponent capitalized on that and moved on in the tournament. Elijah came out and showed what he was capable of in his second match, battled back, and was in a position to win late in that match. I was proud he showed he belonged. I was proud he showed our program belongs. In a season of highs and lows, we just keep marching forward and try to improve on things we can control, on the mat and outside of it. I'm proud to lead this program and am excited for the future."

Brocksmith finished his freshman campaign with a 15-15 record.