The No. 17 West Virginia University wrestling team is gearing up to face Lock Haven this Saturday at 6 p.m. in Lock Haven, Pennsylvania. Fans can catch the action on the PSAC Sports Network.
Under head coach Tim Flynn, now in his eighth season, the Mountaineers are having a remarkable year. With a record of 10-5 and five wins in the Big 12, this is only the second time in the program’s history they’ve hit double-digit dual wins for four straight seasons. As a team, they have secured their most Big 12 victories since the conference’s expansion.
A standout this season is freshman Gunner Andrick, ranked No. 15 at 133 pounds, who leads the team with 21 wins. Tied with him is No. 8 Ty Watters at 157 pounds, who has seven victories against ranked opponents. Watters has performed impressively, with an overall record of 18-2 and leading the team with 12 wins in dual matches.
Seven wrestlers on the team have notched at least 15 wins this season, showing the depth of their talent.
This matchup marks the first time West Virginia and Lock Haven will compete since 2023. Historically, the Mountaineers have the upper hand, leading the all-time series 24-15.
Projected Lineups
West Virginia:
- 125: No. 11 Jett Strickenberger or Louie Gill
- 133: No. 15 Gunner Andrick
- 141: No. 31 Jordan Titus
- 149: Willie McDougald
- 157: No. 8 Ty Watters
- 165: Sasha Gavronsky or Shawn Taylor
- 174: No. 17 Brody Conley
- 184: No. 21 Ian Bush
- 197: No. 16 Rune Lawrence or Cole Tolley
- 285: Brock Kehler
Lock Haven:
- 125: Curtis Nelson or Alex Reed
- 133: Gable Strickland or Patrick O’Keefe
- 141: No. 28 Wyatt Henson or Hunter Gould
- 149: No. 28 Lucas Kapusta
- 157: Nick Stampoulos or Chase Burke
- 165: Ousmane Duncanson or Nick Kunstek
- 174: No. 31 Avery Bassett or Connor Wetzel
- 184: Sam Gautreau or Cael Black
- 197: Tucker Hogan
- 285: Kade Sottolano or Ethan Miller
In recent years, wrestling has seen a growth in youth participation, especially in schools. According to the National Federation of State High School Associations, wrestling is one of the top high school sports for boys in the U.S., reflecting its increasing popularity. Engaging young athletes can only fortify programs like West Virginia’s for years to come.
As the Mountaineers prepare for this crucial matchup, fans will be watching closely, hoping for a strong finish to the season.
