Record: (19-7), 3rd in ACC Championships, 23rd in NCAA Championships
MVP: Chris Henrich
You can't deny someone of the MVP when he's the two-time VaSID State Wrestler of the Year and the program's only three-time All-American. The 174-pounder finished the season 35-5, and had a 136-21 record over his career, becoming Virginia's most decorate wrestler in school history.
Overview: Virginia Wrestling finished the season with a record high 19 wins, and while they couldn't repeat the upset over heavy favorites Virginia Tech in the ACC Championships held at John Paul Jones Arena, the Hoos did finish a very respectable third, with all ten wrestlers finishing fourth or better. First the first time since 2004 and only the fourth time in program history, the Cavaliers had two All Americans in Henrich (6th at 174) and Derek Valenti (8th at 149).
Season Highlight(s): It was early in the season, but it was a memorable one, when No. 21 Virginia upset No. 14 Kent State at The Duals at Hershey, marking the highest ranked opponent the Hoos had ever defeated. It was also the first time in six tries that Virginia managed to defeat the Golden Flashes, who won the first bout at 125, but lost the next four straight to Virginia by decision. Virginia went a perfect 3-0 that day, also defeating The Citadel and Edinboro.
Season Lowpoint(s): I hate losing to Virginia Tech, no matter the sport. So for me, the season lowpoint was falling to the No. 7 Hokies 20-12 when Virginia fought hard enough to get the win. While Tech won the first four bouts of the day, they needed two third-period rallies to pick up the decision at heavyweight and 125, which would turn out to be the pivotal bouts of the day. Also, we lost to a guy named Jesse Dong. That is all.
Future Outlook: This program has been on the rise the past couple years. Last season's ACC Championship was the first since 1977, and this season saw a record-high number of wins. The rising sophomores were highly touted when they were recruited, five of them named All-Americans. The new incoming batch is ranked eight nationally. This team is poised for continued (and uncompromised -- I think they want me to use that catchphrase) excellence. Of course, it will be difficult to replace Chris Henrich at 174, but we do get Valenti back for a final season. I'm looking forward to contending for the ACC Championship again, and hopefully to have a record-high showing at the NCAAs.