Trent Hidlay to remain at NC State to train with Wolfpack RTC

Trent Hidlay will remain at NC State to train for his senior level career at the Wolfpack RTC, according to a release from the club.

Hidlay was a five-time All-American at NC State, also being a two-time NCAA runner-up in 2021 and ‘24. He’s one of the most accomplished wrestlers in school history.

Now, he’ll focus on the next part of his career to try and win gold at the World and Olympic levels.

“I am very excited to join the Wolfpack RTC and continue my senior-level freestyle career in Raleigh,” Hidlay said in a statement. “Throughout my entire collegiate career at NC State, the Wolfpack RTC played a huge role in my development as an athlete. I am looking forward to working alongside the coaching staff to improve my skills as a wrestler and achieve my goals of becoming a World and Olympic Champion.”

Hidlay went 101-12 in five varsity seasons with the Wolfpack. He was a coaches All-American in 2020 amid the canceled tournament.

But, he took 2nd, 5th, 4th and 2nd over the next four years to conclude his career. Hidlay was arguably the best 184 pounder and 197 pounder (in 2024) in the country if it weren’t for Penn State’s Aaron Brooks.

Brooks was a four-time NCAA champion and the current Team USA rep for 86 KG at this summer’s Olympics. Hidlay lost four matches in four consecutive years at the NCAA Tournament to the Penn State legend.

But there’s no doubt Hidlay was a fan favorite across the nation and one of the best of his generation.

“Hidlay will focus on pursuing freestyle championships and will contribute significantly to the development of fellow Wolfpack RTC athletes, helping them hone their skills to become future champions,” the release read. “Additionally, he will serve as an ambassador for the Wolfpack RTC through public appearances and by representing the team in competitions nationwide and internationally.”

NC State head coach Pat Popolizio released a statement on Hidlay sticking around.

“Trent has built a following of sports fans who have become wrestling fans due to his engagement both on and off the mat,” he said. “He has demonstrated what skilled and passionate wrestling looks like and has been instrumental in helping his teammates understand their responsibility to the sport and the wrestling community. Trenet staying in Raleigh to train will allow his influence on the sport to continue as we grow the fan base for wrestling.”