On November 30 is the annual Haparanda Cup in Haparanda, Sweden, a traditional Senior Greco-Roman tournament held towards the latter part of each autumn. Given its location, the Haparanda Cup typically attracts competitors from in and around Scandinavia, though other national federations throughout Europe often send athletes, as well.
Most years, the United States likewise participates in the Haparanda Cup. These rosters tend to be small, with just a handful (or less) suiting up for the event. In 2024, thus far there are only two Americans who appear on the registration list: U20 World silver Otto Black and NCAA wrestling star Austin DeSanto.
Black — younger brother of US National Team member/multi-time age-group World rep Max Black (60 kg, NMU/NTS) — committed to the University of Iowa in the spring and is “grey-shirting” the current season. This does not preclude him from entering “open” college tournaments, for Black last week placed 1st at the Luther Open (in Iowa). As for Greco-Roman concerns, Black earned two Fargo National titles along with appearing on the ’21 U17 World Team prior to his run to U20 silver this past September in Pontevedra, Spain.
DeSanto placed 3rd at the ’21 NCAA Division I national wrestling tournament and was a four-time All-American during his collegiate career. The native of Pennsylvania has competed in freestyle with placings at several international events. At the non-Olympic World Trials in September, DeSanto was defeated in the semifinal round by Daton Fix.
Both Black and DeSanto will be making their international Senior Greco-Roman debuts in Haparanda, and at the same weight category — 63 kg. Also currently registered at 63 kg in the tournament are Arsenii Paschenko (UKR), William Ekeroth (SWE), Algot Gamelius (SWE), and Ruslan Stamat (SWE).
It does not end for Black and DeSanto at Haparanda, either. The duo are also listed for the Haavisto Cup the following weekend in Ilmajoki, Finland.
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