National champion Penn State wrestler announces plans to return for 2023 season
A multi-time Penn State wrestling national champion will be back with the Nittany Lions for the 2023 season.
Roman Bravo-Young announced Monday that he will wrestle one final collegiate year with head coach Cael Sanderson’s program. The 133-pounder will use the free year given to all NCAA athletes because of the coronavirus pandemic.
“The history of wrestling at Penn State is long and storied, and the last decade-plus has been unmatched,” Bravo-Young wrote in a released statement. “To have played a part in what we have accomplished as a team over the years is humbling and I am forever grateful for the opportunity.
“After talking at length with my coaches and my family, it is time for me to do what is best for myself and my future and I will return to Penn State for my final year of eligibility. How could I pass up an opportunity to compete for another individual crown and bring back another team title to Penn State? Let’s roll this back and get to work.”
RBY’s decision is a big boon for Penn State wrestling
The good news continues to add up for Penn State wrestling this offseason.
Defending national champion Max Dean announced shortly after the NCAA Tournament that he would use his COVID year, as well, to again wrestle for the Nittany Lions at 197 pounds. Now, Bravo-Young will do the same.
A Tuscon, Ariz., native, Bravo-Young is a two-time national champ, four-time All-American, and a Penn State graduate. He was free to start his Olympic wrestle career and/or move on to the UFC or any other professional endeavor. But, he’s opted to return to chase another individual and team crown.
According to Wrestlestat.com, Bravo-Young is 81-9 at the college level. He hasn’t lost since 2020. And, he will continue to make Penn State strong at 133 pounds.
“It has been over a month since that amazing night in Detroit, surrounded by fans, friends, coaches and my teammates, winning another title both individually and as a team,” Bravo-Young wrote. “When I came to Penn State, a young kid from Tucson, Ariz., who could have imagined that I would become a two-time National Champion, a four-time . All-American, and have earned a degree from one of the nation’s most prestigious schools.
“Over a month ago, that Saturday night in Detroit was the culmination of so much hard work, determination, and support. During my time at Penn State, I have not only grown as a wrestler, but as a person, and that speaks to the greatness of this program. It is a special place.”
The Lions must still find replacements at 125 pounds, 141, 157, and 165. But, having Bravo-Young back at 133 is enormous news that will only strengthen the program’s chances of winning back-to-back team titles.
