ITHACA, N.Y. — Sophomore Simon Ruiz of the Cornell Big Red wrestling team has been named Ivy League Wrestler of the Week after knocking off two ranked opponents in a dominant weekend swing through North Carolina in the 174 pound weight class.
On Friday, Feb. 20, Ruiz rallied past No. 6 Matty Singleton of NC State for an 8-6 decision in one of the night's pivotal bouts. Singleton jumped ahead early with two takedowns in the opening period to take a 6-2 lead. Ruiz responded with poise in the third, securing a takedown to tie the match at 6-6 before tacking on riding time and a stall point to complete the comeback and earn the decision.
Two days later, Ruiz followed with another ranked win, defeating No. 23 Aidan Wallace of Duke by an 8-1 decision on Sunday, Feb. 22. The sophomore controlled the bout from start to finish, adding to his résumé as one of the nation's top contenders at 174 pounds.
A team captain and leader on and off the mat, Ruiz now turns his focus to the postseason, looking to replicate — and build on — the success of his freshman campaign.
When asked about Ruiz' performance this weekend, The David Dunlop '59 Head Coach of Wrestling, Mike Grey shared, "Simon had a great weekend to close out the regular season. We are full steam ahead towards the post season!"
Last season, Ruiz finished fifth at the NCAA Championships at 174 pounds to secure his first All-American honor, posting a 5-2 mark at the national tournament. He also claimed Ivy League Champion honors and was named Ivy League Rookie of the Year, earning First Team All-Ivy recognition. Ruiz led the team with 16 bonus-point victories and finished 27-7 overall, including a 10-2 record in dual competition. Among his six ranked wins prior to the NCAA Championships were victories over No. 11 B. Cassella (Binghamton), No. 5 L. Pinto (Nebraska), No. 23 Matty Singleton (NC State), No. 26 J. McGill (Columbia) and No. 10 N. Incontrera (Penn).
With momentum on his side, Ruiz heads into the postseason once again positioned among the elite at 174 pounds.
