East Stroudsburg, PA – The Southern Virginia University women's wrestling team showcased growth at the ESU Warrior Duals on Saturday, facing tough competition across multiple matches and securing two hard-fought wins. 

The Knights finished the event with victories over Liberty University (23-21) and Marymount University (26-22), while competing against teams from across multiple divisions, including nationally ranked East Stroudsburg University.

Reflecting on the tournament, Head Coach Jessica Casperson said, "This was a tough tournament. It was extremely well represented by many divisions. ESU is a D2 school that took 8th at Nationals last year. While SVU is still a young program, we held our own! Regardless of forfeiting several weight classes while we continue to grow, we had two major wins this weekend."

Match Results:

• Win: Southern Virginia 23, Liberty 21

• Win: Southern Virginia 26, Marymount 22

• Loss: Brewton-Parker College 25, Southern Virginia 19

• Loss: Western New England 43, Southern Virginia 6

• Loss: ESU 41, Southern VIrginia 6

Standout Performances:
The Knights were led by Dusti Casperson, who recorded a perfect 7-0 record on the day, showcasing her resilience and technical ability. She also led the team in tech falls with three. Avari Johnson followed closely with a 5-1 record, adding two pins and a tech fall. Gracie Blake also contributed two pins, tying Johnson for most pins on the team.

Seani Casperson and Eve Beckstead each earned their first collegiate wins, while Sadie Allred and Johnson successfully executed crotch throws in their matches. Andrea Castro impressed with two ankle picks, and Avari Johnson achieved her first deep-waist front tilt.

Quotes from the Team:

• Leigh-Anne Verburg found the tournament to be a valuable learning experience, recognizing the importance of relying on teammates for guidance and support.

• Dusti Casperson demonstrated confidence under pressure, maintaining a determined mindset to give her best effort and improve her techniques during each match.

• Alyssa Pace reflected on the progress she made, noting how her practice efforts translated effectively on the mat while emphasizing the team's fighting spirit and dedication to improvement.

The Knights' unity was evident throughout the tournament, with Coach Casperson adding, "These ladies showed what competitive grace looks like! They are positive, team players who are fierce competitors on the mat. I really appreciate their hard work, unity, and camaraderie."

Southern Virginia now looks to build on their momentum as they prepare for the Patriot Duals in Williamsburg, KY, on December 6th, following a well-earned break.

For the latest updates, follow @knightwwrestling on Instagram or visit knightathletics.com.