IU wrestling will officially open Wilkinson Hall for their matchup with Maryland Sunday afternoon.
The multi-use indoor arena will be used for all IU wrestling and volleyball competitions. Sunday will also feature a sort of homecoming for the program as they open the new arena. Several dozen IU wrestling alumni are expected to attend, and will be recognized at the match.
The Hoosiers will be looking to start things off on the right foot in their new home, as they’re still hunting for their first Big Ten win of the season.
With a record of 3-7 on the season so far, IU’s current losing streak stands at four straight competitions. The Big Ten is the most dominate conference in college wrestling, but this matchup is a winnable one for the Hoosiers.
Although the Terrapins are in the midst of a four competition losing streak of their own, IU won’t be able to take their foot off the gas in this competition. Expect Maryland to come out strong and fight for their first win of the season.
Even though Maryland hasn’t found much success so far this year, IU Head Coach Angel Escobedo wants to keep his team focused heading into the matchup.
“That’s the thing about the Big Ten is that there are no nights off,” Escobedo said. “Every team in the conference is full of talented wrestlers so you can’t afford to sleep on anybody.”
Escobedo has been focusing on the conditioning of his team to keep it in the fight during its Big Ten matchups, and the Hoosiers will have an opportunity to show off the work they’ve put in Sunday.
Another key focus for the team has been becoming as well-rounded as possible when it comes to their technique. Escobedo wants his squad to be well-versed in virtually every position on the mat, so that nothing can surprise them mid-competition.
Fans looking to attend the match can find the new arena on the corner of 17th Street and Fee Lane, in the same complex as Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall. Parking will be available in the Blue Lot, which can be accessed from either Gate 2 off of 17th Street, or from Gate 14 off of Fee Lane.
Competition will begin at 2 p.m. Sunday, with the doors opening 90 minutes before the match starts.
