Zachary Bates Named PWL Wrestler of the Week

BRIDGEWATER, Mass. -- Bridgewater State University senior Zachary Bates has been selected as the Pilgrim Wrestling League (PWL) Wrestler of the Week.

Bates, who hails from Leyden, Massachusetts, was a perfect 4-0 for the Bears last week competing out of the 174-pound weight class.  Among his three victories was a 10-3 triumph over Shane Parcel of Roger Williams University and a win by fall (1:40) over Steve Martin of Southern Maine.  Parcel and Martin were ranked six and eighth respectively in New England Division III at 174.

In 22 bouts this season, Bates has posted a record of 17-5 with 40 takedowns, six reversals, 15 escapes, six near falls and five pins.  He ranks second in the PWL behind teammate Ken Francis in wins and is tied for fourth in takedowns.  Bates is also tied for sixth in pins and ranks tenth in winning percentage (.773).

In the most recent New England Wrestling Association individual rankings, Bates was tied for first along with Johnson and Wales sophomore Colin Lenhardt in the 174-pound weight class.

The Bridgewater State wrestling team is currently 2-4-1 on the season in dual meet action and 1-0-1 in the Pilgrim Wrestling League.  The Bears are also ranked fifth in the latest NEWA Division III regional poll.