Share this story
IG Story is the most common format. We'll generate a branded image sized for your pick.
Under head coach Vincent Barber and assistant coach Sammy Hillegas, Lynchburg is building a new Division III program — with its first official varsity season still ahead — but already operating with clear structure, investment, and alignment.
On RecruitNC's Class of 2026 board for North Carolina, Lynchburg currently holds five in-state commits — roughly double the next-closest program — with more names expected to follow.
That pace isn't accidental.
It matches what families see the moment they step on campus.
It starts with infrastructure — something you can see the moment you walk in, even before their first varsity season begins.
A facility that stands out
The university recently unveiled a stand-alone wrestling facility of more than 13,000 square feet, one of the largest in NCAA wrestling. The space includes more than 7,200 square feet of mat space with four full collegiate mats, along with a fully equipped weight room featuring Olympic platforms, multiple racks, and conditioning equipment. The facility also includes a team lounge, locker rooms, and a dedicated athletic training and recovery area.
This level of infrastructure is uncommon at the Division III level and has quickly become a major differentiator in recruiting.
A strong connection to North Carolina
Lynchburg's early success in North Carolina is not accidental. The program has maintained a consistent presence across the state — attending tournaments, building relationships, and engaging directly with athletes and families. Lynchburg has also hosted NC United practices, further strengthening its connection to the development pipeline within North Carolina.
In addition, the program has worked alongside RecruitNC in helping support and grow the platform — aligning itself with data, visibility, and modern recruiting tools.
“Lynchburg has embraced North Carolina wrestling the right way — showing up, building real relationships, and investing in the athletes and the ecosystem. That matters.”
Expanding nationally through relentless effort
Lynchburg's early success is not limited to North Carolina. The program is already attracting nationally ranked wrestlers, state champions, and state placers from multiple states, signaling a recruiting footprint that extends well beyond the region.
Over the past year, the coaching staff has shown relentless effort on the road — attending 15+ tournaments, visiting club practices, and consistently engaging with athletes and coaches across the country.
“We're going to go where the best wrestlers are. Recruiting is about relationships and showing up consistently — and that's what we're committed to doing.”
The reach is national — and the approach is built on hustle.
Location matters
Lynchburg's location is a major advantage. Situated within approximately three hours of much of North Carolina, the program aligns with one of the strongest trends in RecruitNC data: the majority of wrestlers from North Carolina compete within the NC / VA / SC region. For many families, that combination of proximity and opportunity is a deciding factor.
The Class of 2026: a foundation group
Lynchburg's 2026 class out of North Carolina reflects a well-balanced group — highlighted by high-level performers and long-term upside.
- Jacob Reigel (Mount Pleasant) — finished his senior season undefeated, state champion, All-American honors at NHSCA Nationals.
- Cameron Gue (Mount Pleasant) — two-time state champion and three-time state finalist; one loss as a senior on the way to another state title.
- Fares Alkurdasi (Jordan) — 2026 NCHSAA state champion at 175 pounds; 102 career wins.
- Cody Bui (Hough) — state placer with 130+ career wins.
- Josh Brezac (Green Level) — state qualifier who made a significant jump last season with continued upside.
We're hearing from the Lynchburg staff that additional North Carolina names may be announced soon as the first roster comes together. Among the in-state athletes connected to the program ahead of formal announcements are Xander McAnaw (prep), Joe Ricci (Hough), and Jojo Trahan (Trinity). We'll update this story as commitments and signings are made public.
Momentum backed by action
Lynchburg's recruiting momentum extends beyond commitments. At their most recent Prospect Day in March, the program hosted over 100 wrestlers, drawing athletes from across the country and reinforcing national interest in what is being built.
As the roster continues to grow, Lynchburg is not just adding numbers — it is building a competitive foundation.
A different recruiting approach
Lynchburg's rise reflects a shift that combines:
- Regional focus
- Facility investment
- Early relationship-building
- Consistent in-person presence
There is no decades-old wrestling tradition to lean on yet — for a program this new, traction comes from the facility, repeated in-person presence, and relationships with families and clubs. That is the blueprint Lynchburg is running, and it matches how recruiting actually moves in 2026.
Takeaway
The numbers above track Class of 2026 commitments from North Carolina to four-year programs — the same lens RecruitNC uses across the site. On that board, Lynchburg leads with five NC signees — roughly double the next program — before year one on the mat lines up with the facility, the travel schedule, and the work in front of families.