Former No. 1 recruit Greg Kerkvliet wrestles his first match for Penn State Wrestling
Monday night was supposed to be a slow night as the Nittany Lions taking on perennial punching bag Maryland at 6pm in Rec Hall. Well folks, that all changed when the dual started at heavyweight and out walked Greg Kerkvliet making his collegiate and Penn State Wrestling debut.
What??
Not long ago, head coach Cael Sanderson indicated we would probably not see Kerkvliet wrestle this season. Which at the time was certainly not surprising since he had yet to participate in any of the B1G duals or extra matches.
And remember when I penned an article seven hours ago detailing the 5 keys for Penn State to win this year’s NCAA National Championship? If Kerkvliet is truly Penn State’s heavyweight, this changes everything.
Everything.
As far as the match, Kerkvliet toed the line against Garrett Kappes of Maryland.
The match started out with Kerkvliet using his lightning fast speed to get around Kappes for a takedown 10 seconds into the match. Kerkvliet then let Kappes up for the escape and 12 seconds later he took him to the mat again. Another easy escape and another easy takedown. Just 35 seconds later Kerkvliet locked up a cradle and Kappes’ back was on the mat. Pin.
Take a look at Greg Kirkvliet’s pin! #PSUwr pic.twitter.com/8Z7jny6xaj
— Penn State WRESTLING (@pennstateWREST) February 22, 2021
Wow, what a start. Nittany Lion fans, strap in and hold on tight because this could be a heck of a ride this year.