EDWARDSVILLE, Ill. - SIUE wrestlers Cole Rogers and Brandon Murphy were crowned champions Saturday at the NCWA North Central Conference Championships held at the Vadalabene Center.

Rogers, a freshman, was the winner at 197 pounds with a 4-1 decision in the championship match over Jed Mamie of Lindenwood.

Murphy was SIUE's champion at 133 pounds. He turned in a 10-1 major decision in the championship match over Notre Dame's (Ohio) Paul Rose .

"It was a very successful day. There was good wrestling all around," said SIUE Head Coach David Ray.

SIUE had eight wrestlers in all who will advance to the NCWA National Tournament which will be held March 8-10 in Daytona Beach, Fla.

SIUE's other top finishers were Dillon Pousson with third at 141 pounds, Derrick Pousson with fifth at 149 pounds, Kyle Lowman with fifth at 157 pounds, Steve Ross with seventh at 157 pounds, Gabe Hocum with fourth at 165 pounds, Deshoun White with third at 174 pounds, and Cole Brandt with fifth at 197 pounds.

Notre Dame (Ohio) was the team champion with 200 points. Lindenwood placed second with 151 points followed by the Cougars with 131.5. Ray said he was impressed with SIUE's performance considering it only entered in eight of 11 weight classes.

"This tournament was much deeper than what it has been in the past," said Ray.