Ali Bernard (New Ulm, Minn./Gator WC) has been named TheMat.com Wrestler of the Week for Jan. 18-24.

Each week, TheMat.com will select an Athlete of the Week, based upon performance within wrestling for that week. The selection committee will consider any level of wrestling, from youth programs through the Senior level.

Bernard, a 2008 U.S. Olympian and 2009 World Team member, won the Guelph Open title in women’s freestyle wrestling on Jan. 22 in Guelph, Ontario, Canada.

Bernard won three matches en route to the title. She defeated two-time U.S. World Team member Stephany Lee in the semifinals before downing Canadian Erica Wiebe in the finals at 72 kg/158.5 lbs.

Bernard placed second behind Lee at the 2010 U.S. World Team Trials.

Note: To nominate a wrestler for TheMat.com Wrestler of the Week, send the athlete's name, accomplishments for the week and career accomplishments to Craig Sesker at csesker@usawrestling.org