Thanks to a redshirt season in 2017-18, an Olympic redshirt year in 2019-20, and the free COVID year in 2020-21; Mekhi Lewis had the option to return to Virginia Tech Wrestling for a seventh year. Many have been wondering whether Lewis would use that extra year or if he would choose to move on given his illustrious career?
Today, Lewis provided an answer that many Hokie fans are certainly excited to hear.
Mekhi Lewis has announced that he is returning to Virginia Tech Wrestling for his seventh year. Lewis will be looking to add to his already illustrious career where he became the first national champion in Virginia Tech Wrestling history in 2019 along with being a three-time All-American with top 4 finishes all 3 times, a two-time ACC champion, and the 2019 NCAA Championships Most Outstanding Wrestler.
Lewis instantly becomes the favorite to win his second ACC title at 174 and third overall ACC title while also being one of the top national title contenders at 174. He instantly boosts Tech's chances of being able to get into the top 5 for only the second time in the program history (despite their top 10-12 consistency) after being one of five All-Americans this past year, all of whom will be back this upcoming season.
Lewis also brings back plenty of veteran experience to a team that only lost Hunter Bolen among the significant contributors from last year's team. Additionally, this gives Tech time to develop a strong bridge at 174 post-Lewis with the Hokies battling for top overall 2024 recruit Angelo Ferrari who has visited VT and could be an instant impact replacement for Lewis after his final season.
Outside of VT WBB star Liz Kitley's announcement to return last month, there has been no more impactful addition or retention for any Virginia Tech team following their seasons this academic year than Lewis returning for one more season.
