PROVIDENCE, Rhode Island. - Aiden Smith and Blake Williams began the first day of the NCAA DIII National Championships on Friday where Smith advanced to day two while earning All-American status. 

Aiden Smith made his mark in the 157-pound division, starting the tournament strong with an impressive tech fall victory in his opening bout. However, in the quarterfinals, he faced the same opponent who handed him his only loss of the season at the National Duals and came up short once again. Undeterred, Smith battled his way through the consolation bracket, where he dominated his next match, securing another tech fall win to advance to day two and earn All-American status.

Blake Williams qualified in the 184-pound weight class and faced an early setback, falling in his first bout and dropping to the consolation bracket. But Williams quickly regrouped, bouncing back with a commanding major decision victory in the second round of the consolation bracket. He continued his dominant run, winning his next match by decision, moving up the bracket with momentum. Unfortunately, Williams' remarkable journey ended in the fourth round of the consolation bracket, bringing an end to his stellar Bulldog career.

Williams concluded his senior season with an impressive 30-6 overall record and a 1-2 mark in MIAA competition, leaving a lasting legacy in the Bulldog singlet.

Aiden Smith begins his quest for a top-3 finish tomorrow at 11:00 AM