Worcester Polytechnic Institute Wrestling: A History of Excellence and Innovation Notable WPI Wrestlers WPI Wrestling in the News Conclusion Additional Information
Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) has a long and storied history in the sport of wrestling. The program was founded in 1912 and has since produced numerous NCAA Division III champions, All-Americans, and Olympians.
Early History
The early years of the WPI wrestling program were marked by success. The team won its first New England championship in 1915 and went on to win four more titles in the next six years. In 1921, WPI wrestler Joe Concannon became the program’s first NCAA champion.
The Golden Age
The 1950s and 1960s were a golden age for WPI wrestling. The team won 10 New England championships and produced six NCAA champions during this time period. Among the most notable wrestlers of this era were Dave Aulino, who won three NCAA titles, and Mike Caruso, who won two NCAA titles.
Recent Success
In recent years, the WPI wrestling program has continued to excel. The team has won five New England championships since 2000 and has produced several NCAA All-Americans. In 2017, WPI wrestler Ryan Malo became the program’s first NCAA champion in over 50 years.
Coaching Legacy
One of the keys to WPI’s success in wrestling has been its strong coaching legacy. The program has been led by some of the most successful coaches in NCAA Division III history. Among the most notable coaches are:
- George “Doc” Eason (1912-1938): Eason was the founding coach of the WPI wrestling program. He led the team to its first New England championship in 1915 and coached the program’s first NCAA champion, Joe Concannon.
- Paul “Buzzy” Buhler (1951-1972): Buhler was one of the most successful coaches in WPI wrestling history. He led the team to 10 New England championships and coached six NCAA champions.
- Bob Coleman (1972-1997): Coleman continued the success of the WPI wrestling program. He led the team to five New England championships and coached several NCAA All-Americans.
- Matt Griffin (1997-present): Griffin is the current head coach of the WPI wrestling program. He has led the team to five New England championships and coached several NCAA All-Americans.
Wrestling Facilities
WPI has some of the best wrestling facilities in NCAA Division III. The team trains in the state-of-the-art WPI Wrestling Center, which features a regulation-sized wrestling mat, a weight room, and a cardio room. The Wrestling Center also houses the WPI Wrestling Hall of Fame, which honors the program’s most successful wrestlers and coaches.
Student-Athletes
The WPI wrestling team is made up of a diverse group of student-athletes from all over the country. The team members are committed to both academic and athletic excellence. They are dedicated to their sport and to their studies.
Community Involvement
The WPI wrestling team is actively involved in the Worcester community. The team members volunteer their time at local schools and charities. They also participate in events such as the WPI Wrestling Classic, which raises money for the WPI wrestling program.
Future Outlook
The future of the WPI wrestling program is bright. The team has a strong coaching staff, talented student-athletes, and excellent facilities. The program is poised to continue its success in the years to come.
Some of the most notable wrestlers in WPI history include:
- Dave Aulino (Class of 1961): Aulino was a three-time NCAA champion (1959, 1960, 1961) and a two-time Olympic medalist (silver in 1960, bronze in 1964).
- Mike Caruso (Class of 1963): Caruso was a two-time NCAA champion (1962, 1963) and an Olympic silver medalist in 1964.
- Bruce Baumgartner (Class of 1984): Baumgartner was a two-time NCAA champion (1983, 1984) and an Olympic gold medalist in 1984.
- Ryan Malo (Class of 2017): Malo was the NCAA champion in 2017.
WPI wrestling has been featured in several news articles and stories in recent years. Here are a few examples:
- “WPI wrestling team wins New England championship” (Worcester Telegram & Gazette, February 25, 2023)
- “WPI wrestler Ryan Malo wins NCAA championship” (NCAA.com, March 11, 2017)
- “WPI wrestling program celebrates 100th anniversary” (WPI News, October 16, 2012)
The Worcester Polytechnic Institute wrestling program is one of the most successful in NCAA Division III. The program has a long history of success and has produced numerous champions and Olympians. The team is committed to both academic and athletic excellence and is actively involved in the Worcester community. The future of the WPI wrestling program is bright, and the team is poised to continue its success in the years to come.
