A New Era Begins

Norwich University will make history on Saturday, Jan. 10, when the Cadets host Kean University followed by Springfield Technical Community College at noon in Plumley Armory, marking the first home women’s wrestling match in school history and the first collegiate women’s wrestling duel ever held in the state of Vermont.

The milestone moment is the latest step in a landmark season for Norwich, which became the first senior military college or federal service academy in the nation to add women’s wrestling as a varsity sport. For the Cadets, Saturday’s dual represents far more than a competition, it is a visible statement of opportunity, grit, and resolve — the physical embodiment of the “I Will Try” attitude. 

“This significant milestone embodies our ongoing dedication to fostering opportunities for all students to compete at the highest levels,” said LtGen John J. Broadmeadow ’83, USMC (Ret.), 25th President of Norwich University, when the launch of the program was first announced.

That dedication will be on full display inside Plumley Armory, a venue long synonymous with Norwich athletic tradition. Now, the historic facility will host another first, as women’s wrestling takes its place alongside the University’s storied athletic programs.

Saturday’s matchup also marks the home debut of head coach Connor Keating ’09, who has guided the Cadets through the program’s inaugural season. In just a few short months, Coach Keating and his team have laid a competitive foundation while navigating the challenges that come with launching a brand-new varsity sport.

Norwich enters the weekend with a 2-3 record in its first season of competition. The Cadets earned their first varsity victory on Nov. 9, defeating the University of Bridgeport by a 29-14 margin. The team followed with another milestone win on Dec. 7, securing a 30-14 victory over Greensboro College.

Those results reflect steady progress for a young program built from the ground up. Each match has provided valuable experience, helping student-athletes adapt to the pace, physicality, and strategic demands of collegiate wrestling while representing Norwich on a national stage.

For the Cadets, the significance of Saturday’s duel extends beyond the mat. As the first senior military college or federal service academy to sponsor women’s wrestling, Norwich has positioned itself as a national leader in expanding access to emerging sports. That leadership aligns with the University’s broader mission of developing disciplined, resilient leaders through both athletic and experiential learning environments.

Women’s wrestling continues to grow rapidly at the collegiate level, and Norwich’s early investment in the sport places the program among a pioneering group shaping its future. Saturday’s home opener provides an opportunity for the campus community, alumni, and local supporters to witness that growth firsthand while supporting a team that is building something new and meaningful.

Inside Plumley Armory, the Cadets will look to feed off the energy of a home crowd for the first time. For many of the student-athletes, it will be their first opportunity to compete on their home mat, wearing the Norwich maroon and gold in front of classmates, faculty, staff, and supporters.

As Norwich continues its inaugural season, the focus remains on growth, development, and establishing a competitive culture that reflects the University’s standards. Saturday’s historic home match represents another important step forward and the willingness to lead where others have not yet gone.

When the Cadets take the mat at noon, they will do so carrying both the weight of history and the promise of what lies ahead, ushering in a new era for Norwich athletics and women’s wrestling in Vermont.