June 23, 2000

DALLAS - T.J. Jaworsky, a former UNC All-America wrestler and current Carolina assistant coach, won his first two matches Thursday at the U.S. Olympic Team Trials being held in Dallas, Texas. A spot on the 2000 U.S. Olympic Wrestling Team is at stake for Jaworsky who is wrestling in the freestyle competition.

Jaworsky, competing at 138.75 pounds, won his first match by pin defeating Jason Mester in only 51 seconds. Jaworsky had a tougher time in his second match of the day but was able to beat Shawn Charles by a 3-2 decision. Friday's action will find Jaworsky facing Bill Zadick of Iowa City, Iowa in his first match with later match pairings determined by the outcome.

Jaworsky looks to face three-time U.S. champion Cary Kolat of Morgantown, W. Va. for the top spot this weekend. Action continues Friday and Saturday at the Reunion Arena in Dallas with the finals taking place Saturday night.