Student-Athlete of the Week presented by GEICO Feb. 18, 2008

Wrestling sophomore Mike Cannon has been named the American University Student-Athlete of the Week presented by GEICO, Department of Athletics and Recreation officials announced Monday. Cannon moved to No. 6 in the InterMat/NWCA/NWMA Individual Rankings last week, his highest ranking to date, and was a perfect 2-0 in competition.

On Wednesday at No. 23 Maryland, Cannon wasted little time in his 165 lbs. match against Ryan Kennett and scored a takedown just 28 seconds in. Cannon began the second period ahead, 4-0, already with 2:32 of advantage time and extended his lead to 10-0 after scoring a takedown and three back points. The match ended abruptly in the third period when Cannon hit Kennett with yet another takedown and pinned the Terp at the 5:28 mark.

Cannon then faced No. 19 Andy Rendos of Bucknell on Sunday, seeking the 50th win of his career. The two moved late into the first period of their match in a scoreless tie before Cannon nearly ended the match, taking Rendos down with a headlock and scoring a nearfall. Cannon took a 6-2 lead into the second period and extended that lead to 8-2 early in the period, scoring a second set of back points with a cradle. Up 10-6 in the third, Cannon spent most of the period on defense. After an escape at the 6:42 mark Cannon took the decision over Rendos, 11-6.

Cannon's win over Rendos was his third this year over a ranked opponent and the 50th of his career. Cannon is now just 18 wins shy of breaking into AU's all-time wins list.

Cannon is 21-2 overall this season, 16-1 in dual meets and a perfect 6-0 against Eastern Intercollegiate Wrestling Association competition. This is Cannon's second AU Student-Athlete of the Week presented by GEICO honor this year..