MANHEIM, PA – The National Wrestling Coaches Association (NWCA) has released its latest NCAA Women's Coaches Poll, and for the first time in program history, Southern Virginia University's women's wrestling team has made its debut, tying for 23rd in the nation. The Knights share this spot with Frostburg State and William Jewell College, both of which are NCAA Division II programs.
A key factor in Southern Virginia's rise is the standout performance of freshman Avari Johnson. Competing at 160 lbs, Johnson has climbed to ninth in the national rankings for her weight class. The Leavenworth, Kansas native holds an impressive 12-2 record in her debut season, winning her last seven matches consecutively. In addition to her national ranking, Johnson is currently third in Region 3.
The Knights' success is even more impressive considering the youth of the program. Now in just their second season, Southern Virginia fields a team featuring nine freshmen, underscoring the potential for continued growth and long-term success. The Knights' rise to 23rd reflects their hard work and dedication to building a competitive program from the ground up.
Among the Knights' talented roster, Alyssa Pace and Gracie Blake have also appeared in the regional rankings. Both wrestlers aim to build on their strong performances and push for higher placements as the season progresses.
The NWCA Coaches Poll is determined by a panel of coaches representing each of the NCAA regions. Teams are ranked based on overall performance, strength of schedule, and individual accomplishments of wrestlers throughout the season. This ranking serves as a benchmark for programs competing at the national level.
For full results and more information on the latest poll, visit the official NWCA website: NWCA Women's Coaches Poll Results.
As the Knights head into the second half of the season, they are poised to continue their upward trajectory, driven by a talented and determined young squad. Southern Virginia's entry into the national rankings marks a significant milestone for the program and sets the stage for even greater achievements in the future.
For updates on the Knights' progress, follow @knightwwrestling on Instagram or visit knightathletics.com
