The West Liberty wrestling program is preparing for a big year in 2024-2025. The Hilltoppers return a strong core of wrestlers from last year’s team that finished with a record of 12-5. West Liberty will be looking to improve on that record this year and make a run at the NCAA Division II National Championships.
The Hilltoppers’ schedule is highlighted by several key matchups. West Liberty will open the season with a home match against Notre Dame College on November 9th. The Hilltoppers will then travel to Indianapolis, Indiana for the Midwest Classic on November 17th and 18th. West Liberty will also compete in the NCAA Division II Super Region 3 Championships on February 28th and March 1st. The top three finishers in the Super Region 3 Championships will advance to the NCAA Division II National Championships.
West Liberty will be led by a strong group of wrestlers in 2024-2025. The Hilltoppers return three All-Americans from last year’s team, including senior 141-pounder Bryce West, junior 149-pounder Cole Laya, and sophomore 184-pounder Ethan Nichols. West Liberty also has a strong group of newcomers, including freshman 125-pounder Noah LeVecchio and freshman 133-pounder Logan Kemp. With a strong mix of experience and youth, the Hilltoppers are poised for a successful season in 2024-2025.
The Road to Dominance: West Liberty Wrestling Kicks Off 2024-2025 Season
Preseason Outlook: Poised for Another Historic Run
The West Liberty wrestling program embarks on a new season with sky-high expectations. Fresh off an impressive 2023-2024 campaign that saw them reign as NCAA Division II champions, the team is poised to continue their dominance. Led by a core group of returning All-Americans and a talented crop of newcomers, West Liberty is a force to be reckoned with.
The Hilltoppers boast a deep and experienced lineup, with several wrestlers ranked among the best in the nation. National champion Simon Smith leads the way at 133 pounds, aiming to defend his title and inspire his teammates.
Other notable returners include All-American Vincenzo Cardone (149 pounds), All-American Nolan Moody (184 pounds), and All-American Noah Adams (285 pounds). These wrestlers provide invaluable experience and leadership to the young squad.
West Liberty’s coaching staff, led by head coach Danny Irwin, has a proven track record of guiding teams to national prominence. With a wealth of knowledge and strategic planning, they will undoubtedly push the wrestlers to reach their full potential and strive for another championship season.
Upcoming Schedule: A Grueling Test Awaits
The Hilltoppers face a challenging schedule in the 2024-2025 season, with a gauntlet of top-ranked opponents. They will begin their campaign with a home dual meet against Ohio Valley University on November 2, 2024.
Other notable matchups include a road match at rival Pitt-Johnstown on January 25, 2025, and a marquee home dual meet against defending NCAA Division I champion Penn State on February 9, 2025.
Key Dates to Mark:
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| November 2, 2024 | Home Dual: Ohio Valley University |
| January 25, 2025 | Away Dual: Pitt-Johnstown |
| February 9, 2025 | Home Dual: Penn State |
| March 13-15, 2025 | NCAA Division II National Championships |
Unveiling the Season’s Slate: A Preview of West Liberty’s Wrestling Schedule
Key Matchups and Notable Dates
The Hilltoppers’ schedule is packed with competitive matchups that will test their mettle and prepare them for the postseason. Head coach Danny Irwin has orchestrated a challenging slate that includes several top-tier opponents and a mix of home and away competitions.
Regular Season Highlights
West Liberty’s regular season will kick off on November 15th with an exciting home match against Clarion University. Other notable matchups include:
- December 29th: A road trip to Cedar Falls, Iowa, to face No. 1-ranked Northern Iowa
- January 13th: A showdown with rival Wheeling Jesuit on their home turf
- February 1st: A crucial home match against Ashland University, a perennial contender in the Great Midwest Athletic Conference
- February 16th: The regular season finale, a home match against Alderson Broaddus University
| Date | Opponent | Location | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| November 15th | Clarion University | West Liberty | 7:00 PM |
| December 29th | Northern Iowa | Cedar Falls, IA | 7:00 PM |
| January 13th | Wheeling Jesuit | Wheeling, WV | 7:00 PM |
| February 1st | Ashland University | West Liberty | 7:00 PM |
| February 16th | Alderson Broaddus University | West Liberty | 7:00 PM |
Home Turf Advantage: Key Home Matches and Dates
Match 1: West Liberty vs. Fairmont State (January 25, 2025)
The season kicks off with a thrilling home match against long-time rival Fairmont State. Known for their intense clashes, this bout promises to set the tone for the upcoming season.
Match 2: West Liberty vs. Wheeling University (February 8, 2025)
In a battle for regional dominance, the Hilltoppers take on Wheeling University at home. With both teams boasting talented wrestlers, this match is poised to test West Liberty’s limits.
Match 3: West Liberty vs. Davis & Elkins College (February 15, 2025)
This home match holds strategic importance as it pits West Liberty against Davis & Elkins College, a rising force in the conference. A victory against these strong opponents could propel the Hilltoppers towards their post-season goals.
| Date | Opponent |
|---|---|
| January 25, 2025 | Fairmont State |
| February 8, 2025 | Wheeling University |
| February 15, 2025 | Davis & Elkins College |
Road Warriors: Notable Away Contests and Challenges
University of Northern Iowa
The Hilltoppers’ trip to Cedar Falls, Iowa, on November 16, 2024, will be a significant test against the perennial Division I power, the UNI Panthers. UNI boasts a strong wrestling tradition and has regularly competed at the highest level in NCAA Division I. This match-up will provide West Liberty with an early opportunity to gauge their strengths and weaknesses against a formidable opponent.
University of Nebraska-Lincoln
The Hilltoppers will face another Division I powerhouse, the Nebraska Cornhuskers, on December 15, 2024, in Lincoln, Nebraska. The Cornhuskers are synonymous with wrestling excellence, having won five national championships and consistently producing top-ranked wrestlers. West Liberty will have to be at their best to compete with Nebraska’s elite squad.
Mount Union Purple Raiders
Although not a Division I program, the Mount Union Purple Raiders are a perennial Division III powerhouse. West Liberty will face them in Alliance, Ohio, on January 19, 2025. The Purple Raiders are known for their tough and scrappy wrestling style, and the Hilltoppers will need to be prepared for a physical battle.
| Time | Date | Opponent | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1:00 PM | November 16, 2024 | University of Northern Iowa | Cedar Falls, Iowa |
| 2:00 PM | December 15, 2024 | University of Nebraska-Lincoln | Lincoln, Nebraska |
| 3:00 PM | January 19, 2025 | Mount Union Purple Raiders | Alliance, Ohio |
Regional Rivalries: Epic Battles Against Familiar Foes
Familiar Foes: Renewed Rivalries
The schedule pits West Liberty against a host of familiar foes, igniting rivalries that have fueled countless memorable matches over the years. These matchups offer an unparalleled opportunity for wrestlers to test their mettle against athletes they’ve come to know and respect.
Geographic Proximity: Local Stakes
The geographic proximity of the teams involved in these rivalries adds an extra layer of intrigue. These athletes often compete against each other in high school and club tournaments, fostering a deep understanding of each other’s strengths and weaknesses. The familiarity breeds both respect and anticipation.
History and Tradition: Legacy on the Line
Many of these rivalries have a rich history, stretching back decades. Victories and defeats have been carefully documented, creating a tapestry of tradition that both motivates and inspires the current generation of wrestlers. Each matchup becomes a chance to add another chapter to the rivalry’s storied past.
Emotional Intensity: Pride and Passion
The emotional intensity of these rivalries is palpable. Wrestlers representing their schools and communities feel a profound sense of pride and passion. Every point and takedown carries the weight of their hometown, their alumni, and their own aspirations.
Community Impact: Bringing Fans Together
These rivalries transcend the sport itself, capturing the imagination of fans throughout the region. They become a source of pride for local communities and a chance for fans to come together and witness thrilling sporting events that forge lasting memories.
| Rivalry | History | Location |
|---|---|---|
| West Liberty vs. Glenville State | Dating back to the 1960s | Glenville, WV |
| West Liberty vs. Wheeling Jesuit | Renewed in recent years | Wheeling, WV |
| West Liberty vs. Fairmont State | A classic rivalry in the Mountain East Conference | Fairmont, WV |
| West Liberty vs. Ashland University | A cross-border rivalry with Ohio | Ashland, OH |
| West Liberty vs. Pitt-Johnstown | A fierce matchup in the NCAA Division II Super Region 1 | Johnstown, PA |
National Spotlight: Facing Top-Ranked Opponents
The Hilltoppers will once again face a challenging schedule in 2024-25, with several top-ranked opponents on the docket. These matchups will provide West Liberty with valuable experience and an opportunity to test their mettle against the nation’s elite.
In NCAA Division II, West Liberty will face No. 1-ranked Notre Dame College in a pair of regular-season matches. The Hilltoppers will also take on No. 3-ranked Findlay and No. 4-ranked Tiffin in conference play.
On the NCAA Division I level, West Liberty will face No. 21-ranked Bloomsburg in a non-conference matchup. This will be a tough test for the Hilltoppers, as Bloomsburg is a perennial contender in the Eastern Wrestling League.
In addition to these nationally ranked opponents, West Liberty will also face a number of other challenging opponents during the 2024-25 season. The Hilltoppers’ schedule is sure to prepare them for the postseason, where they will be looking to make a deep run in both the NCAA Division II and NCAA Division I tournaments.
### 6. Notable Home Matches:
West Liberty will host a number of notable home matches during the 2024-25 season, including the following:
| Date | Opponent |
|—|—|
| November 16, 2024 | Notre Dame College |
| December 7, 2024 | Findlay |
| January 11, 2025 | Tiffin |
| February 1, 2025 | Bloomsburg |
These matches will provide West Liberty fans with an opportunity to see the Hilltoppers compete against some of the top teams in the nation. The atmosphere is sure to be electric, and the wrestling will be of the highest caliber.
Measuring Up: Non-Conference Tests Against Diverse Styles
West Liberty’s wrestling team will face a challenging non-conference schedule in 2024-25, with matches against a variety of opponents representing different styles and regions.
Pitt-Johnstown Mountain Cats
The Mountain Cats are a perennial power in the NCAA Division II, winning three national championships in the past decade. They are known for their aggressive style and deep lineup.
Gannon Golden Knights
The Golden Knights are another strong Division II program, having won six national championships since 1995. They are known for their technical wrestling and strong fundamentals.
West Virginia Wesleyan Bobcats
The Bobcats are a Division III power, winning three national championships in the past five years. They are known for their high-scoring offense and athleticism.
Davis & Elkins Senators
The Senators are a Division II program that has been improving in recent years. They are known for their physicality and toughness.
Thomas More Saints
The Saints are a Division II program from Kentucky. They are known for their quickness and agility.
Ohio State Buckeyes (Exhibition)
The Buckeyes are a powerhouse Division I program, consistently ranked among the top teams in the nation. The exhibition match will be a great opportunity for West Liberty to test themselves against the best.
Seven Other Tough Tests
In addition to these six major matches, West Liberty will also face seven other non-conference opponents: Indiana Tech, Lake Erie, Glenville State, Notre Dame College, Malone, Tiffin, and West Virginia Tech. These teams represent a variety of styles and levels of competition, ensuring that the Hilltoppers will be well-prepared for the rigors of conference play.
| Opponent | Date | Location |
|—|—|—|
| Pitt-Johnstown | November 16, 2024 | Johnstown, PA |
| Gannon | December 7, 2024 | Erie, PA |
| West Virginia Wesleyan | January 11, 2025 | Buckhannon, WV |
| Davis & Elkins | January 18, 2025 | Elkins, WV |
| Thomas More | February 1, 2025 | Crestview Hills, KY |
| Ohio State (Exhibition) | February 8, 2025 | Columbus, OH |
| Indiana Tech | January 4, 2025 | Fort Wayne, IN |
| Lake Erie | January 6, 2025 | Painesville, OH |
| Glenville State | January 13, 2025 | Glenville, WV |
| Notre Dame College | January 25, 2025 | South Euclid, OH |
| Malone | January 27, 2025 | Canton, OH |
| Tiffin | February 3, 2025 | Tiffin, OH |
| West Virginia Tech | February 10, 2025 | Beckley, WV |
Championship Contenders: Clash of the Titans in Tournament Play
The 2024-2025 season promises to be an exciting one for West Liberty wrestling, with several promising wrestlers vying for individual and team championships.
8. Jacob Smith (157 lbs)
Jacob Smith is a two-time state champion and one of the most decorated wrestlers in West Liberty history. As a junior, Smith went undefeated and won the state championship in the 152-pound weight class. He will be looking to repeat as state champion this season and lead the Hilltoppers to a team championship.
| Year | Weight Class | Record | State Placement |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 152 lbs | 42-0 | 1st |
| 2023 | 157 lbs | 40-1 | 2nd |
| 2024 | 157 lbs | 45-0 | 1st |
Smith is known for his outstanding takedown defense and his ability to score points from all positions. He is a formidable opponent for any wrestler in the state.
Match 4: NCAA West Regional
The West Liberty wrestling team heads to Brookings, South Dakota for the NCAA West Regional. The top three finishers in each weight class earn a berth to the NCAA Division II Wrestling Championships, so the stakes are high. The Hilltoppers will need to take at least 8 placing wrestlers to the Midwest Classic if they want to make a run at the NCAA Tournament.
Match 5: NCAA Division II Wrestling Championships
The West Liberty wrestling team travels to the NCAA Division II Wrestling Championships in St. Louis, Missouri. The Hilltoppers will compete against the top wrestlers in the country in their respective weight classes. The NCAA Division II Wrestling Championships is the pinnacle of the wrestling season, and the Hilltoppers will be looking to finish the season on a high note.
Match 6: Special Event / Home Match TBD
West Liberty will host a special event or home match in an exhibition-style tournament. This is a great opportunity for the team to showcase their skills and compete against other top wrestlers in the country.
Match 7: Winter Break
West Liberty will take a break for the winter holidays and return to action in January.
Match 8: TBA
The final match of the 2024-2025 West Liberty wrestling schedule will be announced at a later date.
Match 9: MEC Championships
The MEC Championships will be held in Fairmont, West Virginia on February 25-26, 2025. The Hilltoppers will be looking to win their first MEC Championship since 2019. The top three finishers in each weight class earn an automatic berth to the NCAA Division II Wrestling Championships.
| Date | Opponent | Location |
|---|---|---|
| February 25-26, 2025 | MEC Championships | Fairmont, West Virginia |
Match 10: NCAA Division II Wrestling Championships
The NCAA Division II Wrestling Championships will be held in Sioux Falls, South Dakota on March 10-12, 2025. The Hilltoppers will be looking to make a run at the NCAA Tournament and finish the season on a high note. The top three finishers in each weight class earn All-American honors.
| Date | Opponent | Location |
|---|---|---|
| March 10-12, 2025 | NCAA Division II Wrestling Championships | Sioux Falls, South Dakota |
Embracing the Challenge: The Quest for a Conference Title
10. Dominant Dual Meet Performance
West Liberty’s dominant dual meet performance in the 2024-2025 season will be a testament to the team’s hard work and dedication. The Hilltoppers will aim to replicate their exceptional record from the previous campaign and establish themselves as a formidable force in the conference. Their aggressive style and technical prowess will pose a significant threat to their opponents, laying the groundwork for a successful conference title run.
The following table highlights the anticipated dual meet schedule for the 2024-2025 season:
| Date | Opponent | Location |
|---|---|---|
| October 25, 2024 | Bucknell University | West Liberty, WV |
| November 1, 2024 | Lock Haven University | Lock Haven, PA |
| November 8, 2024 | University of Pittsburgh-Johnstown | West Liberty, WV |
| November 15, 2024 | Edinboro University | Edinboro, PA |
| November 22, 2024 | University of Maryland-Baltimore County | West Liberty, WV |
| January 10, 2025 | West Virginia University | Morgantown, WV |
| January 17, 2025 | Concord University | West Liberty, WV |
| January 24, 2025 | Glenville State College | Glenville, WV |
| January 31, 2025 | Notre Dame College | West Liberty, WV |
| February 7, 2025 | West Virginia State University | Charleston, WV |
| February 21, 2025 | Lander University | West Liberty, WV |
| February 28, 2025 | Marshall University | Huntington, WV |
West Liberty Wrestling Schedule 2024-2025
The West Liberty University wrestling team has released its schedule for the 2024-2025 season. The Hilltoppers will compete in a challenging slate of opponents, both in and out of conference. The season will begin with a home match against Glenville State College on November 2, 2024. West Liberty will then travel to take on Edinboro University on November 9th and Clarion University on November 16th. The Hilltoppers will open their home conference schedule on November 23rd against Notre Dame College. West Liberty will also host Ashland University on December 7th and Tiffin University on January 11th. The Hilltoppers will close out the regular season with a home match against Alderson Broaddus University on February 15th.
The 2024-2025 season will be the first for new head coach Danny Irwin. Irwin was hired in May 2023 after spending the previous five seasons as an assistant coach at the University of Pittsburgh. Irwin is a two-time NCAA All-American and was a member of the 2013 NCAA championship team at Pitt. He is excited to lead the West Liberty wrestling program and is confident that the Hilltoppers can compete for a conference championship in the near future.
