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Penn State wrestling fans held their breath as Braeden Davis, the Nittany Lions' starting 133-pounder, suffered an injury during Sunday’s season opener against Drexel.
Despite the setback, Davis managed to secure a win over Kyle Watterman, narrowly avoiding a last-minute takedown challenge. While the sophomore’s long-term status remains unclear, head coach Cael Sanderson assured reporters that the decision-making process is in capable hands.
“I think he’ll be fine. If you’re able to finish the match, and he just had to, you know, kind of wrestle through that, we’ll take care of it. We’ll make sure he has the time he needs to get back to full speed.”
The final say, however, rests with Dan Monthley, Penn State wrestling’s Head Athletic Trainer, whose expertise Sanderson unequivocally trusts.
“Dan Monthley is a really, really good [Athletic] Trainer, and pretty much what he says is Gospel. He’s not really been off ever, that I remember, calling a knee, or a shoulder, or something on the mat.”
Monthley’s reputation among the team is well-earned. Wrestlers Levi Haines and Carter Starocci affirmed their coach’s praise with silent nods, a testament to the trust Monthley commands.
Starocci, who famously overcame a serious knee injury last season to win his fourth NCAA Championship, credited Monthley for his recovery.
After his victory, Starocci raised Monthley’s arm in acknowledgment.
As Penn State awaits the full evaluation of Davis’s injury, Sanderson’s optimism is bolstered by his faith in Monthley’s judgment.
“If he gives me the look, then we know. You’re throwing the brick in and just kind of moving on.”
While the severity of Davis’s injury is still uncertain, one thing is clear: Dan Monthley’s expertise will guide the path forward for the Nittany Lions. Check out the full story here!
