Braves Break Into National Rankings

EDMOND, Okla. – Less than 24 hours after making a significant jump in the Super Region I rankings, the UNCP wrestling team jumped back into the national picture on Wednesday as the Braves checked in at No. 20 in the latest NCAA Division II Wrestling Coaches Association poll released by the organization.

UNCP (2-0) joins four other Super Region I teams in the latest listing as Newberry (No. 5), Pitt-Johnstown (No.9), West Liberty (No. 14) and East Stroudsburg (No. 18) continued their stay in the poll as well. Belmont Abbey, whom the Braves came back to defeat 19-16 on the road in their season-opening dual meet, and Limestone appeared in the listing as well in the “Others Receiving Votes” section.

In addition to the team ranking, a pair of Braves also appear in the individual rankings as well. Russell Weakley jumped up a spot to No. 3 in the 125-pound ratings, while Shane Nolan remained steady at No. 7 in the rankings at 197 pounds.

UNCP is in the midst of a one-week break from competition for finals, but will resume action on Sunday when it makes the trip to central South Carolina to take part in the Newberry Duals. UNCP will open up its portion of the round-robin-style event against Cumberland, but will also lock horns with both No. 17 Ashland (0-0) and No. 7 Findlay (0-0) as the day progresses.