State Dominates in ACC Wrestling Championships

When we previewed the ACC Wresting Championships, we thought State could grab three or four titles and pull off their third straight ACC crown.

We were wrong…in a good way.

Wolfpack wrestling could not have had much better of a Sunday. FIVE Pack members had their arms raised, the worst individual finisher was fourth and the team won their third straight ACC Championship, walking away by 24 points. Some early upsets got 8 of 10 wrestlers into the semis, with six making it to finals. The one finals loss by Camacho? A 2-1 OT thriller against top ranked Sam Latona of VT. That’s how close they were to an even better outing.

State had an absolutely amazing Sunday.

In a time when State fans question if the person at the coaching helm is “the one”, Pat Popolizio, might be the best we have right now. Since taking over the helm nine seasons ago, Popolozio has won National Coach of the Year, ACC Coach of the Year twice, 3 National Champions, 20 ACC Champions and 5 ACC Wrestlers of the Year. NC State has become a legitimate name in the sport and recruiting continues to bring in talent.

When talking about said talent, look no further than standout Redshirt Senior Hayden Hidlay. Sunday saw the 157-pounder win his fourth ACC title, having only been done ten previous times in ACC history. He has NEVER lost a matchup against an ACC opponent in any competitions for his career. This tournament was a further stamp of excellence, winning his semis matchup 22-6 and the finals 12-3. It wasn’t even close.

All remaining champions for the day got their revenge after falling short last year. A perfect ending to an imperfect season. Now, onto Nationals.

Final Placements for State by Weight

125 Pounds – Camacho Comes in Second After 2-1 OT Loss

133 Pounds – Trombley comes in 4th

141 Pounds – T. Wilson Wins Title with 10-1 Win

149 Pounds – Scott comes in 4th

157 Pounds – H. Hidlay Wins Title with 12-3 Win

165 Pounds – T. Bullard comes in 3rd

174 Pounds – D. Bullard Wins Title with 4-2 Win

184 Pounds – T. Hidlay Wins Title with 3-1 Win

197 Pounds – Reenan takes 4th

285 Pounds – D. Wilson Wins Title with 2-1 Win