The Averett University wrestling team is poised to start the 2024-25 season with high expectations. With a mix of returning starters and talented freshmen eager to make their mark, the team is ready for another strong year.
Head coach Blake Roulo, now in his sixth year as head coach, shared his excitement about the team’s potential. “We have a great mix of experienced leaders and talented newcomers. This is the most exciting team I’ve coached in my six years here,” Roulo said.
The team is looking to build on the success of last year, which included six wrestlers qualifying for nationals, a two-time All-American, five Cougars earning VaSID All-State honors, four wrestlers named NWCA Scholar All-Americans, and a second-place finish at regionals, with two regional champions.
The Cougars are led by senior Mason Barrett, a two-time All-American, who is currently ranked #4 in the nation at 125 pounds by the National Wrestling Coaches Association and Division 3 wrestling. Other ranked seniors include Jesse Alvarado, 14th at 149 pounds, Anthony Taylor, 10th at 165 pounds, and Khalil Mitchell, 8th at 174 pounds.
Trent Ragland, a first-year assistant coach and Averett wrestling alumni, is excited about the team’s plans to challenge themselves with a more difficult schedule this year, including matchups against top-ranked opponents.
“We’re doing different tournaments this year so we can face top-ranked opponents early in the season,” Ragland said. “The only way these kids get better is by challenging them early on, so they have time to improve and make adjustments.” Ragland added, “We’re hoping to break another record this year and take at least seven to nationals. Our ultimate goal is to bring home a national champion, which we’ve never done before.”
This year, Averett will also be hosting the Southeast Regional Tournament, set for Friday, February 28th and Saturday, March 1st. Coach Roulo and the team are excited for the opportunity.
“We’ve already started planning, and I can’t wait for everyone to come out and have a great time,” Roulo said. “This is the first time our school has hosted the tournament, and we want to make a great impression so everyone will want to come back. It’s also a great opportunity to showcase our school.”
Averett men’s wrestling is currently ranked #21 as a tournament team by the NWCA. The Cougars will begin their season on Saturday, November 2nd, at the Adrian Invitational in Adrian, MI. To follow their progress throughout the season, visit Averett Wrestling Schedule or follow @averettwres on X.
