Does the Naval Academy Have a Wrestling Team?By Coder| August 30, 2023 Wrestling Does the Naval Academy Have a Wrestling Team? When it comes to sports at the United States Naval Academy, most people immediately think of football or basketball. However, the Naval Academy also boasts a strong wrestling program that has produced some exceptional athletes over the years. The History of Navy Wrestling The Naval Academy’s wrestling team has a long and storied history. It was first established in 1903, making it one of the oldest collegiate wrestling programs in the country. Since its inception, Navy wrestlers have consistently competed at the highest level, earning numerous accolades and championships. Competing in NCAA Division I Navy wrestling competes in NCAA Division I, which is reserved for the most competitive athletic programs in the nation. The team competes in the Eastern Intercollegiate Wrestling Association (EIWA), which is one of the oldest and most prestigious wrestling conferences in college athletics. A Tradition of Excellence Navy wrestlers have a tradition of excellence both on and off the mat. The program places a strong emphasis on developing leaders who demonstrate discipline, integrity, and dedication. Many Navy wrestlers go on to serve as officers in the United States Navy or Marine Corps after graduation. Notable Alumni Joe Gonzales: Gonzales was a standout wrestler at Navy who went on to win two NCAA championships. He later served as an officer in the Marine Corps before becoming a successful coach. Peter George: George was a four-time EIWA champion and earned All-American honors during his time at Navy. He went on to compete internationally for Team USA. Zach Rey: Rey was a dominant heavyweight wrestler at Navy, winning an NCAA championship and earning All-American honors multiple times. He also represented the United States in international competition. Supporting the Team If you’re interested in supporting the Navy wrestling team, attending their home matches is a great way to show your support. The team competes in Wesley Brown Field House, which provides an intimate and exciting atmosphere for spectators. In addition to attending matches, you can also follow the team’s progress online. The Naval Academy Athletics website provides up-to-date schedules, results, and news about Navy wrestling. Conclusion So, does the Naval Academy have a wrestling team? Absolutely! Navy wrestling has a rich history and continues to be a force to be reckoned with in collegiate wrestling. Their commitment to excellence on and off the mat sets them apart as one of the premier wrestling programs in the country. If you’re a fan of wrestling or simply want to support our nation’s future leaders, be sure to keep an eye on Navy wrestling and cheer them on as they continue to compete at the highest level.
