NCAA champion Greg Kerkvliet is returning to Penn State for his final season, bringing experience, dominance, and leadership to a program that has become the gold standard in college wrestling. After capturing his first NCAA title, Kerkvliet is poised to defend his heavyweight crown and help the Nittany Lions continue their dynastic run under head coach Cael Sanderson.
Kerkvliet’s return is a massive boost for Penn State Wrestling. A former top recruit and U.S. freestyle standout, he has battled injuries and tough competition throughout his collegiate career but finally reached the top of the podium in 2024. His championship performance was a testament to his perseverance, elite skill set, and relentless work ethic. Now, with one final season ahead, he has the opportunity to cement his legacy as one of the most dominant heavyweights in Penn State history.
The timing couldn’t be better for the Nittany Lions, who are once again stacked with talent across multiple weight classes. Kerkvliet’s presence in the lineup provides a critical anchor at heavyweight, giving the team bonus point potential and a reliable closer in dual meets and tournaments alike. His leadership off the mat is just as important, as he sets the tone in the practice room and serves as a mentor to younger wrestlers coming up through the program.
Penn State enters the 2025 season as the clear favorite to win another national title, thanks in large part to returners like Kerkvliet and fellow NCAA champions Aaron Brooks and Carter Starocci, if they also remain on the roster. The Nittany Lions have built a culture of excellence, and Kerkvliet’s return reinforces that commitment to finishing strong and pushing for greatness every day.
Individually, Kerkvliet has the chance to become a multi-time NCAA champion and solidify his status as one of the premier heavyweights of his era. He has already proven he can beat the best in the country, including former national champions and All-Americans. With another offseason of training under Sanderson and the Penn State staff, he will look to refine his skills even further and dominate the field in his final campaign.
Beyond college wrestling, Kerkvliet also has Olympic aspirations, and another standout season will further position him as a top contender on the international stage. His mix of size, athleticism, and technical ability makes him a threat against anyone in the world, and his continued development at Penn State will only improve those chances.
For Penn State fans, Kerkvliet’s return is both exciting and meaningful. It signals that the mission isn’t finished. The Nittany Lions are chasing history, and with leaders like Kerkvliet in the room, their path toward another national championship looks brighter than ever.
As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on Kerkvliet and his teammates. Can they repeat as champions? Can Kerkvliet defend his title and finish his career on top? If his past is any indication, he’s ready to do exactly that. #WeAre #PennStateWrestling.
