Many new faces established themselves in the season opener Saturday as the youthful NIU wrestling team placed 12 wrestlers at the UW-Stevens Point Open.

The Huskies, ranked No. 21 in the nation, led all teams in top-four finishers in the 10 weight classes, including first-place finishes at 125, 133 and 197 pounds in the Gold Division.

“Our guys wrestled hard in the first tournament of the year,” NIU coach Dave Grant said. “There was a little rust there, but we did well and I was pleased by our effort.”

The Huskies fared well in the 125-pound class as first-place freshman Chad Vandiver was joined by teammates Gralan Early and Nick Smith at third and fourth, respectively. Senior Sam Hiatt and freshman Patrick Castillo took the top two spots at 133 pounds, and freshman Derick Hunsinger won the 197-pound class as well.

“The freshmen really came out and performed,” Grant said. “Hunsinger looks pretty tough, and winning this tournament puts him on a good track to success.”

Sophomore Andy Hiatt was held out of the open as a precaution with a knee injury. The injury is not believed to be serious, Grant said.