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Virginia HBCU holds a wrestling clinic. What does it mean?

Courtesy of Norfolk State Athletics

NORFOLK, Va. –– Norfolk State University and the HBCU Wrestling Initiative recently announced the Norfolk State Wrestling Clinic, taking place June 28-29, 2024, on the university’s campus. This milestone two-day event will feature separate clinics for girls on June 28 and boys on June 29, instructed by Norfolk State wrestling alumni and wrestlers coached by Spartan alumni.

“I’m excited with the opportunity to lead a wrestling clinic at Norfolk State University. It’s where my wrestling career began, and it’s really unique for me to have the opportunity to have teammates, former athletes that I coached at NSU, alongside the women wrestlers that I am coaching currently,” said Kirwyn Adderley, Norfolk State wrestling alumnus, All-American, and lead Clinician for the event. “Hopefully, this is the first step in potentially bringing Division 1 women’s and men’s wrestling programs to Norfolk State University and the Hampton Roads area.”

The clinic aims to increase participation and accessibility in the sport of wrestling for a new generation of athletes in the region. Norfolk State has a storied HBCU wrestling history, with the program previously competing at the Division II level. Norfolk State dropped its wrestling program in 1998. The program was highly successful both on and off the mat up until that point; Having produced numerous collegiate All-Americans, doctors, PhDs, businessmen, and coaches who have had positive impacts on girls and boys. 

“We are extremely excited to announce the Norfolk State Wrestling Clinic, a collaboration with the HBCU Wrestling Initiative,” said Melody Webb, Norfolk State Director of Athletics. “This milestone event will celebrate the tremendous careers of our historic program while increasing participation and accessibility to the sport for a new generation of athletes. I am confident this will be a rewarding experience for both attendees and alumni, bringing the Spartan community together to showcase the sport of wrestling at Norfolk State.”

HBCU Norfolk State University HBCU Wrestling HBCU Wrestling Initiative

Norfolk State University’s Rich Wrestling History

Norfolk State University boasts a rich history in wrestling, having produced numerous All-Americans and significant accomplishments over the years. The Spartan wrestling program has been a cornerstone of the university’s athletic department, reflecting the excellence and dedication of its athletes.

Many former members of the Norfolk State wrestling team have gone on to achieve remarkable success at the highest levels within their professions. Raised from rigorous training regimens and expert coaching, former NSU wrestlers have honed their skills to compete on the international stage, representing their alma mater with pride and distinction. Beyond their athletic achievements, these individuals have also demonstrated remarkable leadership and resilience, serving as role models for aspiring wrestlers and professionals everywhere.

Contact: Historically Black Colleges & Universities Wrestling Initiative Email: contact@hbcuwrestling.org

About Historically Black Colleges and Universities Wrestling Initiative:

Historically Black Colleges and Universities Wrestling Initiative (HBCUW) seeks to establish and restore wrestling to America’s historically black colleges and universities and expand access to opportunities created by wrestling for the black community so as to advance social justice and produce black wrestlers and leaders who have the potential to change the trajectory of their families, community, and country. Through the establishment and restoration of wrestling programs at HBCUs, we aim to expand access to the invaluable life skills, networking opportunities, and career pathways that the sport offers.

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