FOREST, VA. – The Old Dominion Athletic Conference (ODAC) released its preseason rankings for the upcoming 2026-27 men's wrestling season, with Southern Virginia University picked to finish eighth in the conference.

Roanoke College, the reigning Region IV tournament champion, was selected as the preseason favorite, receiving seven first-place votes. The conference will feature eight programs this season with the addition of the University of Lynchburg, which will begin its inaugural season of men's wrestling competition.

Southern Virginia had three wrestlers recognized in the individual preseason rankings. Jaton Wellington was ranked third at 141 pounds, Tanner Giatras earned the No. 2 ranking at 174 pounds, and Hank Svedin was ranked third at 197 pounds. Wellington was also recognized in the regional rankings, coming in sixth in the region at 141 pounds.

The upcoming season will also feature a new format for determining the ODAC champion. The ODAC Wrestling Championships, hosted by Averett University in February, will serve as the basis for All-ODAC recognition in each weight class. Additionally, team points earned throughout the championship event will determine the conference's team champion.

Under first-year head coach Pete Hansen '14, the Knights will open the 2026-27 season at the Mount Union Invitational on Saturday, Nov. 7.