David McFadden had an impressive redshirt sophomore season for Virginia Tech winning an ACC title, making the semifinals of the NCAA Championships, finishing fifth overall at 165, and only losing two matches on the season (both in the NCAA Championships). McFadden's success made him a two-time All-American in his two full seasons of collegiate wrestling.
However, McFadden isn't content with receiving NCAA honors and today, the talented Hokie wrestler earned a major international opportunity.
https://twitter.com/HokiesWrestling/status/1003322804635426816
David McFadden earned a spot on the U.S. Freestyle Wrestling U-23 World Team at 79kg. McFadden will compete at the 2018 Freestyle World Championships in Romania in November. This is the second time a Virginia Tech wrestler has made the U.S. Freestyle Wrestling U-23 World Team after Ty Walz earned a spot on last year's team.
The Hokies have had some great wrestlers including Devin Carter and Jared Haught, both of whom made an NCAA championship match at least once during their careers. While McFadden hasn't made a final yet, McFadden is putting together a wrestling unlike any other Virginia Tech wrestler to date while also being a top contender to win the national title at 165 next year.
https://twitter.com/HokiesWrestling/status/997938143381901312
McFadden won't be the only Virginia Tech wrestler competing on the international stage as soon-to-be redshirt freshman Mekhi Lewis will represent the U.S. at the Junior World Championships at 74kg. Like McFadden, Lewis also earned his spot through competing at the Junior World Team qualifiers in mid-May.
After redshirting last season, many expect Mekhi Lewis to earn a starting spot this fall. Lewis is currently listed at 157 by Virginia Tech and will likely face competition from B.C. LaPrade and Solomon Chishko for a starting spot. While Lewis hasn't represented Virginia Tech yet on the collegiate level, Lewis won't be flying under the radar in the ACC next season.
Congrats to David McFadden on making the U.S. U-23 Freestyle World Team and Mekhi Lewis on making the U.S. Junior Freestyle World Team.
Photo Credit: Dave Knachel/Virginia Tech Athletics
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