Hixenbaugh, Buonocore take NWCA Super Region II awards
MANHEIM, Pa - Gabe Hixenbaugh of Montevallo and Avery Buonocore of UNC Pembroke had great seasons as they both were recognized by the National Wrestling Coaches Association (NWCA) this week. Hixenbaugh was named Super Region II Wrestler of the Year and Buonocore garened Super Region II Rookie of the Year honors.
Hixenbaugh won the first national championship in Montevallo history, and the first for Conference Carolinas as a sole sponsor of men’s wrestling. Hixenbaugh, who closed out the year 31-0, became the first All-American for the Falcons. He counted 20 bonus point wins on the season, and was the sixth Most Dominant wrestler in DII.
Buonocore went 17-8 in his first season on campus and finished fourth at 141 pounds in Super Region 2, narrowly missing a trip to the NCAA tournament.
Following a vote of the coaches, the both national awards will be announced by the NWCA next week.
For the full NWCA Super Region Wrestlers of the Year release, click here.
For the full NWCA Super Region Rookies of the Year release, click here.