SPARTANBURG, S.C. -- Following a memorable performance in the season-opening tournament on Sunday, The Citadel redshirt junior Thomas Snipes earned distinction as the Southern Conference Wrestler of the Week, securing a gold-medal finish within the 165 lbs division at the Southeast Open behind a final 4-0 mark for the individual competition.

"Snipes had a great weekend at the Southeast Open," interim head coach Luke Welch said. "He got better as the day went on and it was good to get a win over someone who has beaten him in the past. I think he could have scored more takedowns in the finals, but it's a great start to the season for him. He has to keep stacking his days and not get complacent with his training and mindset. I am excited to see his growth throughout the season."

Notably, the Simpsonsville, S.C., product notched an upset of No. 11 Andrew Sparks in the title bout via a narrow 2-1 decision, effectively avenging his 2025 NCAA Wrestling Championships opening-round loss to the Minnesota representative less than a year ago.