Iowa's Brent Metcalf apologizes

The University of Iowa wrestling team won its 22nd national title last week at the NCAA championships in St. Louis, MO. Junior Brent Metcalf was the only Hawkeye wrestler in a national title match. Brent Metcalf was criticized by many for his actions near the end of his 149-pound title match. The 2008 national champion lost a hard-fought match to Darrion Caldwell of North Carolina State.

An action by Metcalf near the end of the match caused the Iowa team to lose a team point. The following are statements by Metcalf and Iowa Athletic Director Gary Barta regarding the matter.

Brent Metcalf's statement:

"I would like to extend an apology to Darrion Caldwell, his family, the NCAA and the wrestling community for my actions in the NCAA title match. I certainly had no malicious intent. With five seconds left in the match, I was attempting to finish to the end, as I've always been trained to do. In a split second after the whistle, my momentum carried me into Darrion's celebratory back flip. My reaction was a result of self defense and partly, frustration. I want to extend my congratulations to Darrion for his championship."

Gary Barta's statement:

"Brent has taken this situation seriously from the beginning. I'm satisfied with the manner and sincerity with which he's handled it. He is a tremendous student-athlete and has been a terrific role model on the mat, in the classroom and in the community. I look forward to his 2009-10 season and his quest to earn another national championship.