Megan Buydens, a member of the University of Saskatchewan Huskies, has been identified by the Canada Amateur Wrestling Association (CAWA) as a prospect for the 2008 Olympic Games. Megan was one of 10 wrestlers named to a developmental squad for the recent Gilbert Schaub International Tournament in Tourcoing, France. Megan won three matches in the tournament (by a fall over S. Koller of Germany, by a grand superiority, 10-0 over S. Bentorki of France, and by a grand superiority, 12-0 over M. Demicheli of France) before losing by a fall to Annika Oertli of Germany, earning the silver medal.

Until recently, she had been undefeated in the Canadian Interuniversity Sport ranks. "It's a nice honour to be recognized by CAWA," said Todd Hinds, coach of the U of S wrestling squad. "They started this program to develop the next impact athlete on the international scene."

Buydens is the Huskies' team captain. "She's a fantastic kid," said Hinds. "Good things are happening to our program and she's leading the way. She's got tons of potential.  Megan is very positive and light-hearted," noted Hinds. "Megan takes things as they come. She understands the process.” 

Buydens joins former Huskie wrestler Viola Yanik on the international scene. Yanik has already qualified for the 2004 Olympics in Greece.

Credits: Darren Zary of The Star Phoenix and The Canadian Press
            CAWA website, http://www.wrestling.ca/news/article.php?id=424