NU wrestler qualifies for Olympic trials

Northwestern wrestler Jake Herbert has qualified for the U.S. Olympic Team Trials by winning the 185-pound division at the University National Freestyle Championships. Herbert was named Most Outstanding Wrestler and was one of four Wildcats to place in the tournament last weekend.

In the finals for 184 pounds. Herbert defeated Iowa State's David Bertolino of the Cyclone WC, 2-0, 1-0.

Herbert took an Olympic redshirt year this past season from the Wildcats and has been competing in many international events. He will compete in the U.S. Nationals April 23-26 in Las Vegas.

"I got in a good test, wrestled good matches and know what my strengths and weaknesses are," Herbert said. "I also got my qualification for Olympic Trials. It now doesn't matter what I do at U.S. Nationals if I win Olympic Trials. That is what I have been working so hard for."

The winner of the U.S. Nationals becomes the No. 1 seed at the U.S. Olympic Team Trials. The top three finishers in each weight at the trials are named to the U.S. National Team. The U.S. Olympic Team Trials take place June 13-15 in Las Vegas.