The University of North Carolina wrestling team will host the Blue and White Showcase on Saturday evening at Carmichael Arena in Chapel Hill. The event marks the conclusion of the program’s 2025-26 preseason and is open to the public at no cost. Doors will open at 5 p.m., with the showcase beginning at 6 p.m.
This year’s team, led by head coach Rob Koll in his third season, features nine new athletes who joined during the offseason. Last season, the Tar Heels shared the ACC regular season title, which was the 19th dual championship in the history of the program. The team also qualified eight wrestlers for the 2025 NCAA Championships in Philadelphia, representing their highest number of qualifiers since 2021.
The projected matchups for the Blue and White Showcase include:
– 125 pounds: Liam Hickey vs. Cameron Stinson Jr.
– 133 pounds: Matthew Botello vs. Max Martin
– 141 pounds: Elias Navida vs. Luke Simcox
– 149 pounds: Mitchell Younger vs. Nick O’Neill
– 149/157 pounds: Nate Askew vs. Cullen Kane
– 165 pounds: Luke Sipes vs. Colin Nugent
– 184 pounds: Jake Dailey vs. Nicholas Fea
– 184 pounds: Marcus Murabito vs. Collin Carrigan
– 197 pounds: Mikey Calcagno vs. Robert Platt
Head coach Rob Koll said, “The Blue and White Showcase is a great opportunity for our fans to see the team compete before the start of the regular season.” He added that the event allows supporters to get an early look at both returning athletes and newcomers.
The Blue and White Showcase provides fans with an opportunity to observe the team’s preparation and to engage with the program ahead of the upcoming competitive season.