SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – Coker wrestler Austin Akins went 2-1 in the opening day of the NCAA DII Wrestling National Championship, earning All-American status and advancing to day two of the championship.

The 285-pound senior started the day with a hard fought 4-2 overtime loss to nationally ranked No. 3 Jacob Mitchell from Colorado State-Pueblo. He then bounced back with a 3-1 overtime win against Kutztown's Ryan Appleby in the consolation round.

Then in his final match of the day Akins took the mat against Newberry's Mike Kennedy in the All-American round. After falling behind early, Akins battled his way back, scoring two points in the final period to defeat Kennedy 4-3.

With the win over Kennedy, Akins became Coker's first-ever wrestling All-American and guaranteed himself a place in the top eight in the 285-pound weight class.

Akins will take the mat again on Saturday (March 12) in day two of the NCAA DII Wrestling National Championship at 11 a.m. EST. His first match of the day will be against Cole Wilson of Southwest Minnesota State.