NAIA Preview Series: #1 Campbellsville

Campbellsville All-American Emma Walker is back for more this season. Photo courtesy of Campbellsville Athletics.

by Jeremy Eusterwiemann
@wiems19

For Campbellsville, who went back-to-back last season in the NAIA, the goal is simple: Repeat. They will lean on their veteran leadership to continue to keep the ball rolling and help their underclasswomen develop and be ready when the bright lights shine in March. Coach Miracle’s no-nonsense approach will again put the Tigers in contention for a title. This year will be exciting. There are several talented teams that will be at the heels of the Tigers, but it is clear that if they stay healthy this team is not going away.

1. What are your reflections on last season?
Last year’s team slowly improved throughout the year. We were a much better team at NAIA Nationals than when we started the season.

2. Talk about your returning class. Who are some of the women you have high expectations for this year?
We have 6 returning All-Americans that includes National Champion Kenya Sloan at 155, National Runner-up Leilah Castro at 123, and National Runner-up Emma Walker at 143. Angie Vitiritti is returning to the lineup after being injured last season right before conference. She was ranked #2 at the time.

3. Talk about your incoming freshmen class. Who are you excited about and what are some of the names that you expect an immediate contribution from?
I am always excited to see how the incoming freshman are going to shake out. I think that several of them have the potential to All-American this year. I try not to name them until after they have had a chance to compete and prove themselves. I do not want to put any pressure on them. I just want them to focus on learning our system and adjusting to the demands of college wrestling. As of now they look very promising.

4. How do you feel about your preseason?
Our preseason conditioning program went well. We capped it off with a 12-hour overnight team bonding hike/run/challenge. They are in decent shape and ready to focus on technique.

5. Talk about some of your team's goals this season. Are there any specific events you're excited about?
Our goal is to repeat as National Champions.

6. What are some things you have built into your program that you credit for the success you have had so far?
We focus on fundamentals and position here. Never sacrifice position for points. We are traditionally a tough team because we eliminate the fundamental mistakes and try not to give away unearned points.

7. Who are some of the personalities in the room that are providing leadership and shaping your culture?
We have several personalities in the room. They all lead in different ways at different times. With so many seniors and All-Americans returning this year, we have a plethora of different personalities and leadership styles. This team is not led by one or two people. The leadership of the team is a collective effort of those on the team that step up and lead. The seniors and All-Americans on the team work together to provide the leadership needed when it is needed for the younger girls.