Millersville University
"Shorty" Hitchcock Classic
Millersville wrestling set to host annual "Shorty" Hitchcock Classic
11/14/2024 4:00:00 PM | Wrestling
MILLERSVILLE, Pa. — The Millersville wrestling program is set to compete in the 21st annual 'Shorty' Hitchcock Memorial Classic. This annual event is set to take place in the Student Memorial Center on the campus of Millersville University.
While the name changed to the "Shorty" Hitchcock Classic beginning in 2009, this longstanding event has been part of the Millersville wrestling program since 1974-75. This open was named after former head coach Floyd "Shorty" Hitchcock. Hitchcock led Millersville's wrestling program for 18 years from 1984–2002. Hitchcock capped off his Millersville coaching career with a record of 180–113–4. He passed away in February 2002 from cancer and this event was named after him to honor and celebrate his legacy.
"This prestigious tournament features a high level of competition ranging from Division I, Division III, redshirts, and even high school athletes," head coach Jerry Boland said. "I want the guys to go out and compete in each match."
The classic is an open wrestling tournament. Participants can compete at any age level or have collegiate eligibility. The tournament features 10 weight classes, ranging from 125 to 285 pounds. Over 300 wrestlers have signed up to compete this year.
Millersville will have 18 wrestlers competing this weekend, including one returning place finisher in Aidan Micheli. Last season, Micheli wrestled as a true freshman and went 3–2 in the open, recording a pin in 2:35 and a major decision.
Bryce Beatty, Bishop McCoy, Taylor Robinson, and Richie DeFulvio are the Marauders to watch closely in this upcoming tournament. Beatty (8–0) and McCoy (6–0) are the only Marauders with unblemished records and combined for five bonus point wins. Robinson is the most recent transfer from the University of Mount Olive and holds a 6–1 record with a fall and a major decision. Freshman DeFulvio has impressed with a 6–2 record alongside one fall, two technical falls, and two major decisions. He currently leads the team in bonus point wins with five.
After rigorous physical and mental training, Boland says his team is ready for this weekend to come and is confident in how the guys will perform.
"At practice and in their all-around lives, we have helped develop the mentality to do everything at a high level, which directly translates to high-level competition," said Boland. "Where they place isn't a huge concern of mine for this upcoming weekend, I just want them to take on one match at a time."
The Marauders have had two or more place winners in the "Shorty" Hitchcock Classic since the 2017-18 season. The event will take place at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 16.
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