DES MOINES - St. Albert freshman Sean McNitt said hello to the new Wells Fargo Arena and the state prep wrestling tournament in a big way Thursday morning in Class 1A opening-round competition.

McNitt twice came close to pins in rolling past Riceville's Alex Mayer 14-3 (major decision).

"It was exciting, fun," said McNitt. "I liked the atmosphere."

The taller Mayer proved almost a perfect opponent for McNitt.

"I like taller ones," said McNitt. "I can get in on their legs with my shots."

"Sean wrestled well," said St. Albert coach Jake Driver. "I thought we had the second-period pin. It's always tough with the first match. Now we have a day to recover, watch film and improve."

Steve Sigafoose - Daily Nonpareil - 02.24.06