PRTC Wrestling

PRTC Set for 2026 US Open in Las Vegas

2026-04-22

Philadelphia, PA - The Pennsylvania Regional Training Center (PRTC) is set to compete at the 2026 US Open, held April 22-26 at The Expo at World Market Center in Las Vegas, Nevada. The US Open serves as one of the premier events on the domestic competition calendar, with Senior champions earning qualification to the US World Team Trials, Final X, and a chance to represent Team USA at the World Championships.

The PRTC will be represented across both the Senior Men's Freestyle division and the U20 Nationals, continuing to showcase the depth of the program from developing athletes to Senior-level contenders.

Senior Level Competitors

Max Gallagher, 57kg

Gallagher enters the US Open as the 7th seed. He's had a strong collegiate career at the University of Pennsylvania as a two-time NCAA Championship Qualifier. Gallagher represented Team USA at the U23 World Championships in 2024. Known for his pace and ability to create offense from neutral, Gallagher has transitioned effectively into freestyle competition within the PRTC system.

Sean Seefeldt, 74kg

Seefeldt recently competed at the 2026 NCAA Championships representing Penn on the national stage. A tough and reliable competitor, he has been a key contributor in the Quakers' lineup and brings valuable high-level experience into the Senior freestyle division.

Martin Cosgrove, 97kg

Cosgrove competes at 97kg and brings size, strength, and solid positional control to the upper weights in this tournament. He was a U20 All-American having made it to the finals in 2022. Cosgrove's experience has helped him build momentum as he competes at the Senior level for the first time.

U20 Nationals Competitors

Deven Casey, 61kg

Casey has built a reputation as one of the top young talents in the Penn room. An Illinois native, he has earned success at major age-group events and continues to develop his freestyle skill set within the PRTC room.

Donny Almeyda, 70kg

Almeyda is a dynamic offensive wrestler with experience competing at national-level tournaments. His ability to generate points from multiple positions makes him a dangerous opponent in the U20 field.

Caden Bellis, 74kg

Bellis is completing his freshman year at Penn. He secured his spot as the 174lb starter early in the season and never looked back. Bellis represented the Quakers at the Ivy Championships this spring narrowly missing a national qualifying spot. His freestyle acumen is high and he'll definitely turn some heads in Vegas.

Elliott Humphries, 79kg

Humphries has consistently placed at competitive national events and is know to be a fierce opponent. His continued development has positioned him to compete deep into brackets at the U20 level.

Xander Kuokkanen, 86kg

Kuokkanen brings a physical, hard nosed style and has competed in high-level folkstyle and freestyle events. His progression within the Penn wrestling room over the past year will help him be a strong contender at 86kg.

Greyson Meak, 97kg

Meak's combination of size and athleticism has led to success at the regional and national levels. He continues to evolve technically and will look to make an impact in a competitive 97kg bracket.

John Pardo, 125kg

Pardo anchors the group at heavyweight. A consistent performer at the national level, he uses his athleticism and mat awareness to control matches and create scoring opportunities.

According to PRTC leadership, the US Open is one of the most important benchmarks in the sport when it comes to freestyle. To have athletes competing across both the Senior level and U20 divisions reflects the direction of the PRTC from where they've been to where they're headed. Competition for Senior Men's Freestyle is set for April 24-25, with U20 Nationals taking place on April 25-26 as part of the overall US Open schedule.

The Pennsylvania Regional Training Center remains committed to developing world-class athletes while building a sustainable pipeline of talent from the developmental and collegiate levels to the international stage. For updates and results throughout the tournament, follow the PRTC on social media. All matches will be streamed live on FloWrestling.

PRTC Athletes Gain Global Experience on Training Trip to Japan

2025-09-17

The Pennsylvania Regional Training Center (PRTC) recently returned from an international training trip to Japan, where its athletes immersed themselves in both elite-level wrestling and Japanese culture. Over the course of a week, the team trained under the guidance of Olympic Champion Mitsuru Sato at two of Japan’s most prestigious wrestling institutions: Senshu University and Nippon Sports Science University.

The trip brought together top wrestling talent from both the United States and Japan, creating a rare opportunity to exchange techniques, share training philosophies, and build lasting friendships across cultures. For the PRTC athletes, the experience was both demanding and inspiring.

Each day featured three-hour practices that tested both body and mind. Workouts began with international warm-up drills before shifting into highly specific technical instruction, and each session included five to six full live matches per athlete. The intensity mirrored the standard of excellence long associated with Japanese wrestling.

PRTC Senior Athlete Darian Cruz, who is preparing for the 2025 Senior World Championships, reflected on the trip:

“From training with some of the best athletes in the sport of wrestling—in the entire world for that matter—to submerging in a culture of honor, discipline, and respect, I can speak for the group when I say we pushed our limits mentally, physically, and culturally. Not a single student-athlete on this trip had truly left the country. This experience will give the Quakers the kick start to a season that will ultimately result in the collection of our hardware come March! Again, thank you to all those who supported and continue to support the dreams and goals of these incredibly ambitious young men. This is just the beginning of what your support can provide.”

Beyond the mats, the athletes explored Japanese culture. They wandered through historic temples, tasted authentic ramen in tucked-away restaurants, and marveled at the energy of modern shopping districts. For many, it was their first time abroad, adding an invaluable layer of personal growth to the athletic experience.

Two-time NCAA All-American CJ Composto also shared his perspective:

“When I started wrestling at five years old, I never would've thought eighteen years later I’d go on a training trip to Japan with my best friends. All the opportunities I’ve received through wrestling with the PRTC have been a blessing.”

PRTC Chief Operating Officer Kevin McGuigan emphasized the importance of the trip:

“Training in Japan with Olympic Champion Mitsuru Sato and some of the world’s best athletes provides invaluable experience for our wrestlers. Opportunities like this accelerate their growth on and off the mat, and we’re grateful to our supporters who make them possible.”

The week in Japan was more than just training; it was an experience that blended wrestling, culture, and camaraderie—an international journey that will shape the PRTC athletes both as competitors and as individuals for years to come.

Your browser does not support HTML5 video.

Kevin McGuigan Promoted to Chief Operating Officer

2025-05-06

The Board of the Pennsylvania Regional Training Center (PRTC) is proud to announce the promotion of Kevin McGuigan to Chief Operating Officer. After serving with distinction as the Director of Operations, McGuigan’s elevation to COO represents a commitment to continuity and operational excellence within the PRTC.

Brandon Slay Moving On from Executive Director of the PRTC

2025-04-22

After more than eight years of transformative leadership, Olympic Gold Medalist Brandon Slay will step down as Executive Director and Head Coach of the Pennsylvania Regional Training Center (PRTC). Slay and his family will relocate to Springdale, Arkansas this July, where he will take on a dual role as Executive Director of SportsLife Wrestling, a Christian-based leadership development organization, and Head Coach of the G1 Training Center, a new training facility focused on the development of youth, elite high school, and senior level wrestlers. Slay will immediately move on to the PRTC Board of Directors, continuing his service to the organization.

PRTC Heading to Las Vegas for US Open

2025-04-22

PRTC heading to Las Vegas to compete at Senior Nationals and U20 Nationals at the US Open.

PRTC Developmental Training Prepares Juniors for Fargo!

2024-06-30

The PRTC Developmental Training program continues to grow. For all USA Wrestling athletes who qualify to participate at the PRTC, training has gone well this spring!

New Penn Assistant Coach and U23 National Champion Doug Zapf has led the way as we have helped prepare developmental athletes for the upcoming Junior Nationals in Fargo, North Dakota. Doug knows firsthand how valuable this program is. He is the first person to work his way through the Developmental and U23 levels before joining the PRTC as a professional athlete.

The PRTC Developmental Training program is free to all who qualify. To train with the PRTC, all athletes must meet USA Wrestling RTC criteria. Click here for more information.

Penn Wins PRTC Keystone Classic, Drexel Places 3rd

2023-12-10

On Sunday November 19th, the Palestra was filled with NCAA Division 1 Wrestling fans to cheer on their favorite teams from several different conferences around the country. The 27th annual PRTC Keystone Classic was held in the famous venue on the campus of The University of Pennsylvania.

Penn took top honors in the team race edging out a top ten ranked team in Virginia Tech. The Quakers outscored the Hokies 178.5 - 167 to take the team championship. Drexel finished in third place with 88.5 points.

Both Drexel and Penn had multiple place winners at this prestigious early season event. Penn had 18 of their 28 competitors finish with a medal in the Top 8. Drexel had 9 of 21 come home with medals.

PRTC Senior Athletes Jordan Burroughs, Joey McKenna, and Doug Zapf joined Coaches Brandon Slay and Richard Perry for an autograph signing during a break in the competition. This was a great chance for fans and supporters to meet a few of their favorite professional athletes and coaches in person!

Penn's Alex Almeyda, the champion at 133lbs, was awarded the tournament's Most Outstanding Wrestler Award. Alex defeated several nationally ranked opponents en-route to winning Gold. PRTC Intern Eleni Glynos presented each championship winner with their awards while doing her best to help behind the scenes to make sure the tournament ran smoothly.

Thank you to our Presenting Sponsor, Hunter Roberts Construction Group and The McKenna Family. Also thank you to The Perry Family for their generous support as our Tournament Sponsor. Thank you to our ticket sponsors Mike's BBQ, The Philadelphia Chapter of the Wrestlers in Business Network, Beat The Streets Philly, Beat The Streets National, and Royer, Cooper, Cohen, and Braunfeld, LLC.

Our weight class sponsors this year included Friends of Matt Eveleth, Canna-Milne Financial, FCA Wrestling, Wrestling Mindset, Serafenas Training Systems, Pat DiCerbo Financial, Trenton Youth Wrestling, Chain Wrestling, Overcomer Training Center, and Allman, Kelly, & Willner, Attorneys at Law.

Thank you to all who support the PRTC!

Mark Hall Places Third at the Bill Farrell

2023-12-10

The 2023 Bill Farrell Memorial International was held on November 17-18, 2023 in New York City at the New York Athletic Club. This annual event, which has been a tradition for over 60 years, is sanctioned by United World Wrestling (UWW), making it one of the most significant wrestling tournaments in North America. The highest placing American at each weight qualified for the US Olympic Team Trials to be held in State College on April 19, 2024.

Mark Hall, 86kg placed 3rd in a tough bracket following a first round loss to World Silver Medalist Avtandil Kentchadze of Georgia. Mark battled though the wresltebacks winning five matches to win the Bronze medal. He would get revenge for the first loss defeating Kentchadze in his final match of the day.

Tyler Berger, 74kg started strong with two technical fall wins and a close 9-8 win in the quarterfinals. He would have a tough 5-3 loss in the semi-finals to eventual Silver Medalist Alex Marinelli. Another loss in the wrestlebacks dropped Tyler out of medal contention.

Drexel graduate student Mickey O'Malley pulled double duty competing in both Greco-Roman and Freestyle. Competing at 87kg in Greco, Mickey went 2-2. In Freestyle at 86kg, he went 1-1. UPenn sophomore Adam Thomson, the World Team Member at 74kg for Canada, also competed, going 0-1 in Freestyle.

Full PRTC Results

Mark Hall, 86kg Freestyle
LOSS - A. Kentchadze, GEO 8-5
WIN - A. Morgan, USA 9-0
WIN - O. Webster, USA 5-2
WIN - T. Lujan, USA 4-0
WIN - C. Mirasola, USA 4-1

Tyler Berger, 74kg Freestyle
WIN - Y. Akiyama, USA 10-0
WIN - D. Bechtold, USA 11-0
WIN - J. Jacques, USA 9-8
LOSS - A. Marinelli, USA 5-3
LOSS - Q. Monday, USA 12-2

Mickey O'Malley, 87kg Greco-Roman
WIN - J. Lucie, USA 2-0
LOSS - R. Carlson, USA 7-0
WIN - C. Caffey, USA 11-0
LOSS - O. Elor, USA 1-1

Mickey O'Malley, 86kg Freestyle
WIN - S. Barmish, USA 10-0
LOSS - M. Coleman, USA 5-3

Adam Thomson, 74kg Freestyle
LOSS - J. Bergeland, USA 6-4

Doug Zapf Places 5th at U23 World Championships

2023-12-10

PRTC Senior Athlete Doug Zapf traveled to Tirana, Albania to compete in the U23 World Championships as a representative of Team USA at 70kg. Doug is the first PRTC athlete to compete for a world title at the U23 level.

In June, Doug won the U23 National Championship and was selected to represent Team USA at the prestigious event for U23 athletes from around the world. Doug wrestled well starting out strong while winning his first three matches. He would lose a close match in the semi-finals dropping him into the bronze medal match. Doug eventually placed 5th overall gaining value points for Team USA.

The US Men's Team won the tournament outscoring Turkey 148-113. Doug's contributions and experience proved to be valuable as he continues to grow in his senior athlete career. Here are his full results at 70kg:

70 kg – Doug Zapf (Downingtown, Pa., Pennsylvania RTC), Fifth place

WIN Benedikt Huber (Austria), tech. fall 12-1

WIN Ion Marcu (Moldova), dec. 7-0

WIN Orozobek Toktomambetov (Kyrgyzstan), dec. 3-3

LOSS Inalbek Sheriev (AIN), dec. 9-2

LOSS Kanan Heybatov (Azerbaijan), dec. 9-2

Doug is an original PRTC Developmental Athlete and his rise to competition will surely set the stage for future PRTC developmental athletes. Without the many supporters of the PRTC, these opportunities simply would not happen.

PRTC Senior Athlete David McFadden, made the trip to Albania as a delegate of Team USA and Doug's personal coach. The teammates continue to help each other on and off the mat. David and Doug both won gold medals at the Poland Open over the summer.

Click on the button below to view the full story from USA Wrestling about the U23 World Championships.

Drexel and Penn Prtc Athletes Compete at U20 Nationals

2023-05-01

Philadelphia, Pa – Taking the opportunity to compete against some of the best athletes in the nation, wrestlers from Drexel University and the University of Pennsylvania participated in the U20 Freestyle Division at the US Open last weekend. The tournament was held at South Point Hotel and Conference Center in Las Vegas, Nevada. Seven student-athletes from Drexel and five from Penn made the trip west.

Evan Mougalian, a freshman at Penn and competing at 61kg, finished in the top 12 narrowly missing All-American status. He was 6-2 on the weekend defeating several high level opponents.

Jordan Soriano, a freshman at Drexel had an inspirational run at 65kg. After losing his first match, Soriano battled back through the consolation rounds also finishing with a 6-2 record.

Gabe Giampietro, another freshman at Drexel, had an impressive 3-2 record for the weekend. Giampietro, a 125lber for the Dragons, competed at 57kg in Las Vegas.

All the athletes who competed from the two Philadelphia collegiate teams represented the Pennsylvania Regional Training Center.

Here are the full results:

57kg Desmond Pleasant, 2-2

LOSS Hunt (Georgia), 17-14

WIN Hernandez (Vail), 12-1

WIN Davis (Arizona), 10-9

LOSS Houpt (Quest), 19-15

57kg Gabe Giampietro, 4-2

WIN Richards (Utah), 10-0

LOSS Spalding (Compound), 16-15

WIN Higa (Hawaii), 14-3

WIN Concepcion (Cool), 10-8

WIN Tapia (BTS), 10-0

Loss Farmer (West Point), 10-0

61kg John Hildebrandt, 1-2

LOSS Avelar (Grindhouse), FALL

WIN Landroth (Baynard), FALL

LOSS Moore (Tar Heel), 20-9

61kg Evan Mougalian, 6-2

WIN Cox (Wisconsin), FALL

WIN Qureshi (New York), 14-13

LOSS Peterson (Sebolt), 10-0

WIN Kernan (Young Guns), 14-3

WIN Exford (All In), 12-1

WIN Guanajuato (Armona), 14-3

WIN Basile (West Point), 10-0

LOSS Barreto (Pounder), 4-0

65kg Jordan Soriano, 6-2

LOSS Priest (Pitt), 11-0

WIN Hernandez (Team Thor), 10-0

WIN Termini (Charleston), 13-2

WIN Brower (Young Guns), 12-2

WIN Buesgens (Pinnacle), INJ

WIN Jerore (Michigan), 15-5

WIN Hinrichsen (Central), 12-0

LOSS Miller (DMV), 16-6

70kg Aboubakare Diaby, 1-2

WIN Mazur (Cornerstone), 12-2

LOSS Arrington (Wolfpack), 10-0

LOSS Wonser (North Dakota), 5-4

70kg Hunter Gandy, 2-2

WIN Messner (Minnesota), 11-0

LOSS McDaniel (West Point), FALL

WIN Lang (Utah), FALL

LOSS Price (Boone), 10-0

70kg Jude Swisher, 1-2

LOSS Shapiro, 13-2

WIN Swenson, 10-0

LOSS Skellenger (Idaho), 9-7

74kg Tate Nichter, 2-2

LOSS Munro (Regional), 11-0

WIN Ugalde (California), FALL

WIN McGeough (Iowa), 10-0

LOSS Hanau (West Point), 7-4

74kg Dom D’Agostino, 3-2

LOSS LaCour (Rise RTC), 10-2

WIN Licht (Askren), 13-2

WIN Lindsey (Derby), 7-4

WIN Koch (CLT), FALL

LOSS Henckel (Blairstown), 10-0

125kg Matt Cruise, 3-2

WIN Acciardi (New Jersey), 12-2

LOSS Rasmussen (Jackrabbit), 10-0

WIN Becker (Minnesota), 10-0

WIN Carillo (Brawley), 10-0

LOSS Barket (Indiana), 10-0

Pictures by Levi Ventura

Story by Kevin McGuigan