Sept. 23, 2008

MANHEIM, Pa. — The University of Pittsburgh wrestling team recently was highlighted as one of the top teams in the country according to the latest National Wrestling Coaches Association Academic Progress Ratings.

“We’re extremely proud of the effort put forth by our student-athletes as well as our support staff,” said head coach Rande Stottlemyer. “Academics at the University of Pittsburgh take precedence and we all take a great deal of pride in being successful in the classroom. The support we receive from the university allows us to do what we’re doing. Everyone does a tremendous job all-around, a total team effort here at Pitt when it comes to our student-athletes.”

The APR was put into place by the NCAA in an effort to improve the academic success of NCAA Division I student-athletes. In the conference rankings, Pitt topped the seven-team Eastern Wresting League with a rating of 961.

Northwestern University led all schools with a ranking of 992, just ahead of Penn State (988) and the University of Pennsylvania (984).

Top Team/Conference
Duke University (ACC, 964)
Northwestern University (Big Ten, 992)
Iowa State University (Big 12, 979)
George Mason University (Colonial, 970)
University of Pennsylvania (EIWA, 984)
Duquesne University (East Regional, 984)
University of Pittsburgh (EWL, 961)
Northern Illinois University (MAC, 950)
Stanford University (Pac-10, 982)
Davidson College (Southern Conference, 971)
U.S. Air Force Academy (Western WC, 981)