The Morgan State University wrestling team earned their first Eastern Intercollegiate Wrestling Association (EIWA) conference win of the season.
They defeated the Sacred Heart University Pioneers last Saturday, 29-20. This marks their first victory since Johns Hopkins University on Jan. 19.
‘’It’s a great feeling. This is definitely a testament to the hard work and dedication the team has and our ability to stay positive and move forward,’’ said head coach Kenny Monday.
The Bears started off with a win by fall from 125-pounder Julian Dawson against Michael Baker.
‘’I think I set the tone from the beginning of the match. Once I got on top, I went straight to my offense and did really well.’’ said Dawson.
Sacred Heart began to pile up some wins against Morgan winning five matches straight. At one point during the meet, the score was 20-6 in Sacred Heart’s way.
It wasn’t until a 15-0 technical fall win by 174-pounder Darrien Roberts was when the Bears started to gain momentum and turn the tides. The score became 20-11.
The win streak continued for the Bears with a victory by fall from 184-pounder Kingsley Menifee against Aidan Zarrella. Making the score 20-17.
‘’I was a little nervous considering that this was my first match back since my injury. Once we started I got really confident and I was able to figure out my opponent.’’ said Menifee.
The Bears are also starting to recover from an injury bug the team was struggling with this past month. Coach Monday believes that the team was finally able to get over the hump despite the hurdle. He also believes that most of the struggles are mental and they will get through it together.
The meet ended with two fall wins from 197 and 285 pounders Eric Washington Jr. and Xavier Doolin respectively. The meet ended with a phenomenal 29-20 win with great reminders of the team’s strength.
‘’After we beat them, the team felt amazing and the hype was incredible. We will definitely have some momentum for our next match.’’ said Menifee.
Morgan State will face American University this Sunday, Feb.23. This will be their last home meet of the season before they prepare for the EIWA conference tournament.
