After facing its demise, Norwich wrestling looks to prove itself this year by doing the only thing it can do, winning.
After initially being cut by the university due to the financial crises, Norwich wrestling supporters were able to raise over $85,000 in order to support the team for the 2009-10 season.
By accomplishing this feat, the Cadets resumed their season on Oct. 31, losing the match to Roger Williams, 27-15.
Norwich hopes to have a big season this year as they return eight conference qualifiers from last year’s team. In all, the Cadets return 19 upperclassmen and have a heralded recruiting class including at least two previous state championship winners. Joey Eon and Josh Kernan.
“We have a lot of returners this year, and with so many upper classmen we expect to have a pretty good year,” said Matt Ditolla, 19, a sophomore criminal justice major from Nashua, N.H.
Norwich will be led by their coach, Rich Hasenfus..
“The team has been through a lot over the past 10 months, and I feel good about how the team has come together as a group,” said Hasenfus. “I am excited to start the season; the guys have worked very hard during the preseason and are in good shape.”
The Cadets will look to prove themselves once again during the rest of the season as they return to action on Nov.14 at the Roger Williams Invitational.