A BLAST FROM THE PAST AND THE BLASTER BUTTON It's been more than 40 years since Albion stepped into the wrestling circle. The Britons return in 2021-22, with men's and women's teams. Also joining the athletics lineup: esports, as competitive video gaming continues its surge in popularity. By Marissa Smego Something old, something new. Dating back thousands of years, wrestling is one of the world’s oldest sports. Conversely, esports is one of the newest and fastest growing offerings in college athletics. One of the other fastest growing college sports? Women’s wrestling, which along with esports will soon feature NCAA-sanctioned events.
But before that, they will join the return of men’s wrestling as a trio of new teams in the Albion varsity athletics lineup for 202122. Coaches have been hired and rosters are currently being formed. Albion this winter will revive the men’s wrestling program that was disbanded in the 1970s. Adam Wilson will lead both the men’s and women’s programs after being hired last November. A three-time all-region performer at Olivet College a decade ago, Wilson
had served as the Comets’ head assistant coach the last four years. The addition of the teams not only will bring more prospective students to Albion’s campus, but also create distinct experiences and opportunities for those who choose to hit the mats for the Britons in Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association and NCAA Division III competition. Nearly 400 schools across the NCAA and NAIA currently offer intercollegiate men’s wrestling. Adam Wilson
30 | Albion College Io Triumphe!
