Penn State Heads to the Army Black Knight Invitational Ready to Compete

University Park, PA- Penn State wrestling coach Cael Sanderson says the return to regular dual meets has brought much-needed stability to the team. “When the season’s rolling, that’s where we have the most structure in our jobs. We know where we’re going to be, and that helps everyone—coaches and athletes,” Sanderson said. The predictable schedule is already helping the team settle in and focus on getting better week by week.

For the upcoming Army Black Knight Invitational, Penn State will bring 20 wrestlers, two in most weight classes. “We’ve got 20 spots, so we’re taking all 20,” Sanderson explained. “It’s all about getting matches in and competing.” At 157, where the lineup is still open, PJ Duke is set to compete this week. “We just need to get some matches. We’ve got some good guys there, and this weekend will help us see where everyone stands.” 157lbs, Joe Sealey got a special shout-out from the coach. “He’s outstanding, one of the best in the country. Committed, hardworking—he’s a great kid and we're confident in him.”

Looking back at the recent Oklahoma dual meet, Sanderson praised Cole Mirasola’s performance, saying, “He controlled the match and is just going to keep getting better.” He also noticed some wrestlers seemed hesitant in their first matches, possibly from nerves or lack of experience. “Some guys might have been holding back more than they needed to. It’s early in the season, and they’ll keep getting better in technique, attitude, and how they compete.”

Sanderson emphasized on technical adjustments the team needs to focus on, especially switching from freestyle to folkstyle wrestling. “We have to tighten up positions and finishes and get more mat wrestling in. Freestyle is totally different—you can’t roll around or dive-roll on ankles because you give up points. Those are the minor adjustments we’re making.” Still, he insisted the team is ready. “If the national tournament was next week, I think we’re ready.”

When asked about what he wants to see from the Black Knight Invitational, the coach said, “The name of the game is just to get matches in. Compete with enthusiasm and hustle. Score points if you can—it means something different for every wrestler. But more than anything, just keep getting better.”

Updates on athlete status included good news for wrestlers like Josh Barr, who’s close to returning but won’t compete this weekend. Levi recovered well from a scary moment during the Oklahoma duel last week pand finished strong. Ono is skipping this one due to preparation for a national qualifier in Japan next month.

Sanderson spoke about balancing routine and flexibility in their approach. “Routine gives you confidence and consistency. But life isn’t always routine, so you have to be ready to adapt and give your best every day,” he explained. He also reflected on the team culture: “We recruit guys that fit our culture, but every wrestler ultimately has to decide how they want to compete. Our job is to help them be ready for the big moments, but it’s their career at the end of the day.”

With the Thanksgiving break coming up, Sanderson said the team will get some time off, though probably not enough for long trips home for most. “We give the guys a couple days to enjoy the holidays and be normal people.”

As Penn State looks ahead, the focus is clear: steady progress, gaining experience, and building towards peak performance in the biggest competitions. “We want to see our guys step up, compete hard, and keep improving. That’s what makes us strong,” Sanderson concluded.