Navy Wrestling Shows Progress with Strong Start
This past weekend, Navy wrestling gained valuable insights through its opening matches, facing No. 21 Pitt and hosting the annual Navy Classic.
Season Opener Against Pittsburgh
On Saturday, Navy fell 20-12 to Pittsburgh, a team ranked 21st in the National Wrestling Coaches Association preseason poll and returning most of its starters. Despite the loss, Coach Cary Kolat noted significant improvement compared to last year's 35-3 defeat to the Panthers.
“It comes down to who is ready to perform when the season starts. We eased in last year and it was a wake-up call. We started to perform better as the season went on,” Kolat said.
Performance at the Navy Classic
On Sunday, Navy placed third among 10 teams at the 47th annual Navy Classic, competing against strong programs like Pitt and Nebraska, which holds the second spot in the preseason rankings. Navy itself received votes in the Top 25, signaling growing national recognition.
Team Experience and Challenges
- The lineup combined youth and experience with three juniors, two seniors, three plebes, and two sophomores.
- A major challenge is filling the 141-pound slot after losing All-American Josh Koderhandt, who ranks 13th in Navy history with 106 career wins.
In his sixth season, Kolat emphasizes the importance of a strong start, a message his team has embraced since preseason practice began.
Author’s Summary
Navy wrestling demonstrates notable growth and competitive spirit early in the season, blending youth and experience while rebuilding key positions for future success.