LITTLE ROCK - This upcoming Wednesday, November 1 at 7:00 p.m. kicks off year five in the Little Rock wrestling program's short history. While fans are gearing up for an exciting season opener at the Jack Stephens Center, see what other exciting things are in store for the Trojans this season, courtesy of all four coaches.

1. The Youth on the Team

With only two true freshmen on the team this year, it's the deepest that the Little Rock roster has ever been. However, especially for those that have redshirted, there are several underclassmen looking to step into the starting lineup this season. Check out the full Trojan roster here.

"This young crop of guys that have been sitting and waiting their turn for a few years...it's time to finally let them out and let them off the leash. It'll be a bunch of young pups coming out barking hard and biting harder." - Coach Austin Schafer

2. How the Team Matches Up

"I'm looking forward to seeing what the guys have been doing in the practice room translate over to competition. We can't wait to see it pay off and see what we can be. We're facing some of the best teams in the country this season. We'll see what our young guys do and how the older veterans lead them through it." - Coach Javier Maldonado

 

3. Forward Progress

The offseason is where the foundation is laid, and from weight room gains to successful competition at national events such as the US Open and World Team Trials, you could say that the foundation is rock solid.

"I can't wait to just see the guys compete. There are some guys that have jumped levels and are ready to prove that they've jumped levels. I'm excited to see the guys go out and display everything that they've been working hard to do." - Coach Albert White

 

4. Three-Point Takedowns

This summer, the NCAA Playing Rules Oversight Panel approved a new rule that makes all takedowns in wrestling worth three points, effective this season. Increasing the scoring for takedowns by an additional point is designed to enhance the sport by rewarding offensive actions and risk-taking. Read more about the rule changes here.

"What I'm actually really looking forward to is yelling 'three' for the first time on our first takedown of the first match...and knowing if I'm actually going to yell 'three' or 'two,' honestly." - Coach Neil Erisman

For the latest information on Little Rock Wrestling, make sure to check out LRTrojans.com. You can also find the team on social media at @LittleRockWRES on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

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