ALLIANCE, Ohio — The West Liberty University men's wrestling team turned in a competitive showing at the Purple Raider Open, gaining valuable experience against a deep field that included Division I, Division II, and unattached competitors.

The Hilltoppers were led by Chase Schepis (165) and Levi Abbott (184), both of whom earned top-six finishes while scoring double-digit team points.

Schepis put together one of the strongest runs of the day, advancing to the championship quarterfinals with wins over Hunter Dietrich and Michigan State's Duke Myers. After being knocked into the consolation bracket, Schepis battled back with consecutive medical forfeit victories to reach the consolation semifinals before ultimately finishing sixth, totaling 12 team points.

Abbott followed with an impressive performance at 184 pounds, opening the tournament with a fall over Ashland's Matt Malay and a decision win against Edinboro's Easton Belfiore. Abbott rebounded from a narrow semifinal loss to secure a spot in the third-place match, finishing fourth overall and contributing 11.5 team points.

West Liberty also received solid efforts from several other wrestlers across the lineup.
At 141 pounds, Levi Richmond recorded two falls in the opening rounds to advance to the quarterfinals, while Tregyn Morin (133) added bonus-point victories in the consolation bracket, including a fall and a major decision.

At 125 pounds, the Hilltoppers were well represented, with Brady Donovan, Caiden Harbert, and Blaise Parrill all earning wins in a crowded bracket. Donovan picked up a technical fall in championship action and added a decision victory in the consolations, while Harbert recorded a quick fall and Parrill earned a tech fall in his run.

Additional wins came from Braxton Miller (157), Tyson Mills (165), and Kenny Alvarado (165), each of whom posted victories against unattached and conference opponents as West Liberty continued to build depth throughout the roster.

The Hilltoppers will travel to Erie Friday to compete in a tri-meet with Gannon and East Stroudsburg. 



West Liberty University blends a small-town environment with a comprehensive college experience, fostering students' aspirations through hands-on learning, personalized support, and unique academic programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels. Learn more at westliberty.edu.