SIOUX FALLS, S.D. -- March 11, 2016 -- Taylor Summers picked up a hard-fought 3-2 decision over 2015 sixth-place finisher Joseph Calderone in the first round of today's NCAA Division II Wrestling Championships, before running into two consecutive nationally-ranked opponents and finishing his season in the second round of consolations.

Summers represents the Chadron State wrestling program in a national tournament for the 48th consecutive season, a tradition which can be traced back to NAIA qualifiers Cliff Ayers, Bob Lynch, John McGary, and Steve Gremm in 1969.

The junior from Plymouth, Nebraska, won his opening bout with an early first-period takedown. He was able to earn enough time in the top position to account for a riding bonus, while his opponent only scored two escapes in the match.

Summers ran up against third-ranked Blake Bosch in the national quarterfinal. Bosch advanced on a 4-2 decision, and Summers was matched with No. 7 Jordan Simpson of Newberry, who won 9-5.

Taylor Summers will conclude his season at a record of 27-11, getting a win in the regional semis over then-No. 3 Martin Ramirez, and placing second in the West Super Region.