Navy wrestling looks to show progress by getting off to a strong start

Navy Wrestling Aims for a Strong Start and Visible Progress

Navy wrestling opened its season with mixed but promising results, testing itself against ranked opponents and measuring progress from last year’s campaign. Head coach Cary Kolat used the opening weekend as an early indicator of how far the program has come.

Opening Matches Reveal Growth

On Saturday, Navy fell 20–12 to No. 21 Pittsburgh, a team returning most of its lineup. Despite the loss, Kolat noted that the Midshipmen performed far better than last season’s 35–3 defeat to the same opponent.

Strong Showing at the Navy Classic

The following day, the Midshipmen finished third among ten teams at the 47th annual Navy Classic. The field included both Pittsburgh and Nebraska, the latter holding the No. 2 preseason national ranking. Navy currently sits among those receiving votes in the National Wrestling Coaches Association Top 25.

Kolat’s Perspective

“It comes down to who is ready to perform when the season starts. We eased in last year and it was a wake-up call. We started to perform better as the season went on,” Kolat said.

Entering his sixth season, Kolat has emphasized the importance of beginning strong—a message his athletes have embraced since early practices.

Team Composition and Challenges Ahead

Navy’s roster blends youth and experience, featuring three juniors, two seniors, two sophomores, and three plebes. The team’s biggest challenge will be replacing All-American Josh Koderhandt at 141 pounds; he ranks 13th in program history with 106 career victories.

Author’s Summary

Navy wrestling showed solid early progress under coach Cary Kolat, combining experience and young talent to build momentum toward a competitive season.

The Baltimore Sun — 2025-11-07