July 22, 2002

Charleston, SC - The Citadel wrestling coach Rob Hjerling announced the signing of the 2002 recruiting class. The recruiting class includes 22 state qualifying appearances and eight state championships from four different states.

"The recruiting class as a whole is extremely talented and an experienced group of champions, who will make our roster complete," stated Hjerling. "I feel this class will help The Citadel compete for a SoCon Championship."

This year's recruiting class starts off with three nationally-ranked wrestlers from the state of Michigan. Travis Piccard (157) of Allendale, MI is a three-time state champion and 2001 NHSCA National Open Champion who won 119 consecutive matches over his last three seasons. He compiled an astonishing career record of 202-3.

Daniel Thompson (141/149) of Howard City, MI won three state titles with an overall record of 209-15. Wrestling at the 145-pound weight class his senior year Thompson tallied a record of 57-1. This one loss came to his 152-pound friend and soon to be teammate Piccard.

John Dickerson (184) of East Rapids, MI was a three-time state qualifier, placing twice and winning a state championship, while placing third at the 2001 AAU World Championships.

"Look for all three of these Michigan boys to make an immediate impact for this team," stated Hjerling.

Chris Reyes (Hwt) of Moncks Corner highlights the recruiting class from South Carolina. Reyes is a four-time state qualifier and a three-time placer, while setting a precedent for the South Carolina record books with a 130 career falls.

Another talented South Carolina recruit is Mauro Bria (133), a state champion from Hilton Head.

"The South Carolina kids will depth to our lower and upper weights," commented Hjerling.

Adam Farabaugh (141) hails from Loretto, PA. Farabaugh placed twice at state and qualified three-times in the dominant wrestling state of Pennsylvania.

"Look for great things from this scrappy, hard nosed kid," said Hjerling.

Rounding out the recruiting class is the 160-21, three-time Florida state qualifier and two-time placer Jeff Cotto (145) of Palm Bay.

"Jeff has a lot of potential yet to be tapped," stated Hjerling.

The 2002 Bulldogs finished 10-7 and third in the Southern Conference. The grapplers will begin their climb to the top in the fall.