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The History of Integration of Sports at West Virginia University
West Virginia University First Wrestling Team (1921)

A Brief History of Wrestling at
West Virginia University

Wrestling at West Virginia University began in 1921 under coach R.B. Dayton. Steve Harrick became the coach in 1923 and coached the team until 1932. During this time period the team was led by Morgantown wrestlers such as Bob DeAntonis and Gene Brewer. During Harrick’s 29 years tenure as West Virginia University’s wrestling coach he produced a record of 155-99-4 with five Southern Conference titles.

First African American to Wrestle at West Virginia University

Norman Hill was the first African American athlete to wrestle at West Virginia University in 1965.

Wrestling Facilities at West Virginia University

African American Pioneers who Wrestled
at West Virginia University

Jeff Brown
Reginald Brown
Norman Hill
Rodney Johnson
Melvin Sims
Jim Stevens