Lehigh University Athletics
Mountain Hawks prep for upcoming season
9/25/2003 12:00:00 AM | Men's Wrestling
Lehigh's wrestling squad has been anxiously awaiting the start of the 2001-2002 season. In preparation for the year, the team has been working diligently to get in-shape during the preseason. The team began practice on Wednesday.
"The team has been working hard on a great preseason program. They are the most in-shape team I have ever coached," said head coach Greg Strobel.
With only three seniors returning, this year's roster is comprised mostly of underclassmen. That doesn't stop Strobel from expecting great things. Out of 39 wrestlers, Strobel has seven returning starters, five nationally ranked wrestlers, and three All-Americans. "The teams spirits are high, and so are our expectations," added Strobel.
Returning to the line up will be senior tri-captain, All-American Chris Vitale. Vitale is tied for sixth for most wins by a Lehigh wrestler in one season. Senior tri-captain, All-American, and EIWA Champion Rob Rohn will look to battle back from injuries and continue his success during his senior campaign. Rohn has compiled an impressive 56-17 record over the past two years. Sophomore tri-captain John Trenge notched over 30 victories last season; he was ranked number one in the EIWA and in the top three nationally last year. In his collegiate debut Trenge put up an outstanding 35-3 overall record, defeating both NCAA finalists and five All-Americans. Trenge himself could have been an All-American, but an eye injury sidelined him just before Easterns. He has recuperated 100%, and is looking to get back on the mat. Sophomore Mario Stuart earned All-American status after his first year, which was shortened due to a knee injury. Despite being sidelined for part of the season, Stuart was able to post a 12-12 dual meet record, finish second at EIWA, and fifth in the NCAA tournament.
The Mountain Hawks will once again face a challenging schedule. The team will travel to the Las Vegas Tournament, participate in the National Dual Meet Championships, and host the Billy Sheridan Duals at Stabler Arena. Dual meets against Penn State, the University of North Carolina and North Carolina State highlight the home schedule.
"We only have 31 days until our first match. That doesn’t give us a lot of time, but we're ready and excited," said Strobel.
The team held an open house on Saturday at 10 am in Stabler Arena. The open house gave fans and parents an opportunity to meet the team.
Wrestling action begins November 6th with Wrestle- Offs in Grace Hall. The Mountain Hawks will host Pittsburgh in their first dual meet on November 15th at 7:00.
