CASTLETON, Vt. – The Castleton University wrestling team has gradually climbed the national ranks since its inception in 2016, and the Spartan grapplers look to continue that rise heading into the 2021-22 season.
 
After a 5-0 season with wins against two top-15 teams in a shortened 2021 season, the Spartans have a full slate of action ahead of them beginning this weekend at the Ithaca Invitational.
 
The Spartans are led by a group of seven seniors, including NEWA-ranked wrestlers Frank Darwak at 125, Michael Gonyea at 133, Cooper Fleming at 174 and Chance LaPier at 197. Gonyea ranks the highest of all Spartans in the NEWA poll, topping the chart at 133 pounds. LaPier was ranked second at 197. Darwak and Fleming both sit at sixth in their respective weight classes going into the season.
 
Juniors Michael Angers and Shea Garand also join the ranks on the NEWA poll, with Angers checking at No. 2 among 165-pounders and Garand No. 6 among heavyweights. Sophomores Elijah Cyr, James Rodriguez and Sampson Wilkins round out Castleton's ranked wrestlers, both Cyr and Rodriguez ranking seventh at 149 and 141 pounds, respectively. Wilkins was ranked sixth at 184 pounds. The Spartans have a wrestler among the NEWA's top eight at all weight classes with the exception of 157 pounds in the pre-season charts.
 
Castleton was also selected second as a team in the NEWA Tournament rankings, coming in behind only perennial powerhouse Johnson & Wales. Castleton topped Coast Guard in the rankings, as well as Roger Williams and Springfield College.
 
The Spartans host their first of four home events on November 17 when Norwich comes to town for the annual Green Mountain Championship matchup.