The world of college wrestling is a thrilling and competitive realm, where young athletes test their strength, agility, and endurance against the best of the best. One such institution that stands out in this domain is Campbell University, a private Baptist university located in Buies Creek, North Carolina. The university's wrestling program has garnered a reputation for producing talented wrestlers who excel both on and off the mat.
Team History and Achievements
Campbell University's wrestling program was established in 1968 and has since become a staple of the institution's athletic department. Over the years, the team has competed in various conferences, including the NCAA Division I Southern Conference and the SoCon. In 2011, the team joined the SoCon, where it has remained ever since.
Throughout its history, the Campbell University wrestling team has produced several notable achievements. In 2015, the team won its first SoCon Championship title, defeating Appalachian State University in the final match. The team has also produced several individual champions, including Nathan Kraisser, who won the 125-pound weight class at the 2016 SoCon Championships.
Current Roster and Coaching Staff
As of the 2022-2023 season, the Campbell University wrestling team consists of 30 student-athletes, representing various weight classes. The team is led by head coach Cary Kolat, a former NCAA champion and Olympic wrestler. Coach Kolat has been at the helm of the program since 2015 and has guided the team to several successful seasons.
Here is a list of the current Campbell University wrestling roster:
- 125 pounds: Joshua Heil, Matthew Kaylor, and Michael Shields
- 133 pounds: Joey Gould, Anthony Romero, and Gavin Kane
- 141 pounds: Brandon Morales, Chris Wilkes, and Austin Parrish
- 149 pounds: Nathan Kraisser, Ian Millholen, and Colton Malone
- 157 pounds: John Boyle, Tyler Kerr, and Matthew Ellison
- 165 pounds: Quentin Perez, John McMurtry, and Brandon Bishop
- 174 pounds: Austin Reese, Andrew Radford, and William Stegner
- 184 pounds: Taylor Jackson, Charles Tucker, and Nathan Kraisser
- 197 pounds: Tyson Storr, Hunter Walters, and Eric Henderson
- 285 pounds: Justin McCollum, Casey Chalmers, and Matthew James
Training Facilities and Equipment
Campbell University's wrestling team trains at the state-of-the-art Carter Gymnasium, a 2,500-seat facility that features a regulation-sized wrestling mat, strength and conditioning equipment, and locker rooms. The team also has access to a dedicated wrestling room, which includes a second wrestling mat, weightlifting equipment, and a video analysis system.
The team's training equipment includes a variety of strength and conditioning tools, such as free weights, resistance bands, and plyometric boxes. The team also uses advanced technology, including video analysis software and heart rate monitoring systems, to optimize its training and competition preparation.
Community Engagement and Outreach
The Campbell University wrestling team is committed to community engagement and outreach. Throughout the year, the team participates in various community service projects, including youth wrestling clinics, food drives, and charity events. The team also hosts several home matches and tournaments, which attract fans from across the region.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
Campbell University offers a variety of scholarships and financial aid options to its student-athletes. The university's athletic department provides full and partial scholarships to its wrestlers, based on their academic and athletic performance. The team also offers academic scholarships, including the Campbell University Academic Scholarship and the President's Scholarship.
In addition to these scholarships, the team also receives support from the Campbell University Wrestling Club, a booster organization that provides financial assistance to the team.
Alumni and Career Opportunities
Campbell University's wrestling program has a strong track record of producing successful alumni. Many of the team's former wrestlers have gone on to compete at the professional level, including in the Olympic Games and the NCAA Championships.
The team's alumni have also achieved success in various careers, including coaching, business, and medicine. The university's strong network of alumni provides its student-athletes with a wide range of career opportunities and mentorship.
Gallery of Campbell University Wrestling
What is the name of the Campbell University wrestling team's head coach?
+The Campbell University wrestling team's head coach is Cary Kolat.
What conference does the Campbell University wrestling team compete in?
+The Campbell University wrestling team competes in the SoCon conference.
What is the name of the Campbell University wrestling team's training facility?
+The Campbell University wrestling team trains at the Carter Gymnasium.