The Plymouth State University (PSU) wrestling team has a rich history of producing talented wrestlers and competing at the highest levels of collegiate athletics. Located in Plymouth, New Hampshire, the team has been a staple of the Panther athletic program since the 1960s. In this article, we'll delve into the history of the PSU wrestling team, its notable achievements, and what makes it a force to be reckoned with in the NCAA Division III wrestling world.
Early Years and Growth (1960s-1980s)
The PSU wrestling team was established in the early 1960s, with the program competing in the New England College Athletic Conference (NECAC). During this period, the team experienced moderate success, with several wrestlers qualifying for the NCAA Division III championships. In the 1970s and 1980s, the program began to gain momentum, with the team winning several NECAC championships and producing its first All-American wrestler.
The Duane Ancypiw Era (1990s-2000s)
In 1990, Duane Ancypiw took the reins as head coach of the PSU wrestling team. Under his leadership, the program experienced a resurgence, with the team winning multiple New England Wrestling Association (NEWA) championships and producing several NCAA Division III All-Americans. Ancypiw's coaching style, which emphasized discipline, hard work, and teamwork, helped to establish PSU as a wrestling powerhouse in the region.
Recent Success (2010s-Present)
In the 2010s, the PSU wrestling team continued to thrive under the guidance of head coach Tom Perrin. The team won multiple NEWA championships, including a streak of four consecutive titles from 2014 to 2017. During this period, the team also produced several NCAA Division III All-Americans, including a national champion in 2016.
Notable Wrestlers and Alumni
Throughout its history, the PSU wrestling team has produced numerous talented wrestlers who have gone on to achieve great success in the sport. Some notable alumni include:
- Eric Larcomb, a three-time NCAA Division III All-American and 2016 national champion
- Mike Willey, a two-time NCAA Division III All-American and 2017 NEWA champion
- Ryan Hogan, a 2018 NCAA Division III All-American and 2019 NEWA champion
Facilities and Training
The PSU wrestling team trains and competes in the 1,200-seat Foley Gymnasium, which features a state-of-the-art wrestling room and weight training facilities. The team also has access to top-notch athletic training and medical staff, ensuring that wrestlers receive the best possible care and support.
Community Involvement and Outreach
The PSU wrestling team is committed to giving back to the community through various outreach programs and activities. The team regularly participates in charity events, such as the annual "Wrestling for a Cause" tournament, which raises money for local food banks and other organizations.
Gallery of PSU Wrestling Team
FAQs
Q: What is the PSU wrestling team's mascot? A: The PSU wrestling team's mascot is the Panther.
Q: What conference does the PSU wrestling team compete in? A: The PSU wrestling team competes in the New England Wrestling Association (NEWA).
Q: Who is the head coach of the PSU wrestling team? A: The head coach of the PSU wrestling team is Tom Perrin.
Q: How many NCAA Division III championships has the PSU wrestling team won? A: The PSU wrestling team has won one NCAA Division III championship, in 2016.
Q: What is the PSU wrestling team's home venue? A: The PSU wrestling team's home venue is the Foley Gymnasium.
We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive overview of the Plymouth State University wrestling team's profile and history. With its rich tradition of excellence, commitment to community involvement, and state-of-the-art facilities, the PSU wrestling team is a force to be reckoned with in the NCAA Division III wrestling world.