University Park, Pa. — Troy Sunderland has resigned as head coach of the Nittany Lion wrestling program, effective Saturday (April 4), Director of Athletics Tim Curley announced. Penn State will begin a national search for his successor immediately.
Sunderland, a 1993 Penn State graduate, recently completed his 11th season as head coach of the Nittany Lions. He leaves Penn State with a 115-90-2 overall dual meet record, having coached Penn State to four top 10 finishes at the NCAA Championships, including a third place finish last year. This past season, Penn State went 8-12-2 and placed 17th at nationals. Sunderland has coached three individual National Champions, 24 All-Americans and seven Big Ten Champions during his tenure.
"I am proud of what we've accomplished at Penn State during my tenure as head coach," Sunderland said. "While we did not achieve the ultimate goal of winning a national title, I feel that this program is on the cusp of accomplishing that elusive goal. I am pleased with where this program is headed and wish the next coach here the best of luck as the Penn State wrestling family continues to strive for the national title."
Sunderland was a three-time All-American as a wrestler at Penn State, becoming a national runner-up twice. An EWL and Big Ten Champion, Sunderland ended his Penn State wrestling career with a 100-13-3 overall record.
"Troy Sunderland has always represented Penn State with honor and integrity," Curley said. "As an athlete and a coach, he has embodied the values of Penn State athletics. We are thankful for all he has given to this University and wish him all the best."