Michaels flips commitment to Pitt

By JEREMY SELLEW

jsellew@yourmvi.com

When former Campbell wrestling coach Cary Kolat was named as the new coach at the U.S. Naval Academy March 20, Elizabeth Forward wrestler Ryan Michaels’ world changed.

After Kolat’s departure, a couple assistants followed his exit and Michaels knew he had a decision to make. Michaels, who originally committed to wrestle under Kolat at Campbell, decided to decommit and reopened his recruitment after being released from Campbell on April 2.

“I was considering decommitting when (Kolat) left and the other coaches leaving made the decision easier,” Michaels said.

In less than two weeks, Michaels found his new home to continue his wrestling career, and it’s not too far away.

Michaels announced via Twitter April 15 that he will continue his academic and wrestling career at the University of Pittsburgh. It was a no-brainer for Michaels, as the Panthers were his other top option before he committed to Campbell.

“I visited Pitt before and it was one of my top choices,” Michaels said. “The coaching staff really liked the way I wrestled and scored points.”

Michaels won his second straight WPIAL championship this season and was the state runner-up at 120 pounds. He finished his senior campaign with an overall record of 45-3.

Last season, he was a PIAA medalist, finishing third.

Michaels, the son of Frank and Tina Michaels of Elizabeth, said the Pitt staff, led by head coach Keith Gavin, liked his aggressiveness and his ability.

“My strong point is being on top,” Michaels added. “I do need to work on my neutral position.”

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