Cormier Story

Daniel Cormier has experienced tremendous success and devastating defeat on and off the mat during his career as a six-time time national champion and two-time Olympic wrestler.
Cormier, who was chosen as the team captain for the 2008 Olympic wrestling team, won six straight national championships and the Bronze Medal at the 2004 Olympic Games in Greece.
“In recognition of Daniel’s contribution to the sport of wrestling and his success at Colby College and in the world arena, we have named the Nov. 1 wrestling tournament the Daniel Cormier Open,” said CCC Head Coach Steve Lampe.  “He will be attending the tournament with his wife Robin.” 
Cormier was widely recognized as the USA’s best hope for a Gold Medal at the 2008 Beijing Games.  However, his dream of winning came to an end when he was forced to withdraw from the competition at 96 kg (211.5 lbs.) because of health concerns.
Cormier will discuss details of the devastating decision to withdraw from the competition and his future plans during the 6 p.m. break in tournament. He will also be available to talk with and provide photo opportunities for those who attend the tournament
“Daniel has an unique and inspiring message,” said Coach Lampe. “I encourage everyone, especially young athletes, to attend this tournament and hear him discuss both the triumphs and tragedies that he has experienced,” said Coach Lampe.
The 29-year-old Lafayette, Louisiana native was a three-time state prep champion.  He led the CCC Trojan squad, coached by Steve Lampe, to the NJCAA championship in 1999 and was the national champion for two years.  After graduating from Colby College, he continued his career a Oklahoma State University where he earned second in the 2001 championships while receiving a degree in sociology.
Cormier has not lost to an American wrestler since 2003, earned his first World medal in 2007, and was honored with the John Smith Award, symbolic of the country’s top freestyle wrestler.
For more information about the tournament, call Head Coach Steve Lampe at 443-2220 or Rich Epp at 443-1994.