Five Reasons to Attend: No. 10 Virginia Tech vs. VirginiaFive Reasons to Attend: No. 10 Virginia Tech vs. Virginia
Wrestling

Five Reasons to Attend: No. 10 Virginia Tech vs. Virginia

Hokies to host in-state rival in Smithfield Commonwealth Clash Friday

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BLACKSBURG – On the heels of a dominant 31-15 win over Duke, Virginia Tech wrestling will host the Virginia Cavaliers on Friday, Jan. 31 at 7 p.m. ET. The Hokies, who are ranked tenth in the nation behind NCAA champion Caleb Henson (149 pounds), will look to continue their hot start against a Virginia team that has lost two consecutive matches. Here are five reasons to attend this Friday’s wrestling matchup at Cassell Coliseum. 

  1. Matchup Storylines – Friday’s matchup will serve as this season’s Smithfield Commonwealth Clash between the two conference foes. The Hokies, who are searching for their 13th consecutive win against the Cavaliers, will aim to extend the streak and improve their overall record to 53-28-1 against Virginia. Tech is riding a wave of momentum entering the matchup, outscoring Virginia 82-24 in the past three head-to-head home meetings. 
  2. ‘90s Night – Fans in attendance at Friday’s contestwill have the opportunity to take a blast to the past on 90s Night in Cassell Coliseum. Relive all the best 90s music, movies, television and trends at this festive evening full of throwbacks and fun!
  3. Giveaway – In celebration of 90s Night, the first 250 fans who arrive at Cassell Coliseum will receive a 90s-inspired flat bill hat. Be sure to get to Cassell before the crowd to secure your piece of Hokie swag while supplies last!

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  4. In-House Events – The energy in Cassell Coliseum on Friday will be something fans won’t want to miss. Emcee Bailey Angle will be at the matchup, bringing the fun with live games, giveaways and more throughout the contest. After the match concludes, be sure to stick around for the opportunity to get autographs from your favorite wrestlers. Keen fans can find the student-athletes on the concourse once the final bout concludes. 
  5. Athlete Spotlights – Multiple Hokie wrestlers will have the opportunity to extend their streaks of success in Friday’s clash. Graduate student Sam Latona (141 pounds) enters the contest with 92 wins and is rapidly closing in on 100 wins as a Hokie. Additionally, the Hokies are ranked tenth in the nation and boast an impressive squad of 10 nationally ranked wrestlers led by 2024 NCAA National Champion Caleb Henson. Fans shouldn’t wait to see the Hokies hit the mat on Friday evening!