VESTAL, N.Y. – Binghamton wrestling will soon see a dramatic rise in the size and scope of its practice environment. The Division of Athletics announced Friday that a new 8,200-square-foot space will be constructed in the West Gymnasium. The repurposed space on the gym's south court will become the permanent practice home for the Bearcats under second-year head coach Ryan LeBlanc.

The project includes a mat space of 5,200 square-feet, cardio and weight training area, student-athlete and coaches' locker rooms and a sports medicine area.
The new space will more than double the size of the team's current wrestling room.    

"The expansion of our wrestling room is a tremendous investment in the future of Binghamton Wrestling," LeBlanc said. "I want to thank President D'Alleva and our athletics administration for their leadership, vision, and support throughout this project.
 
"This new space will provide our wrestlers with a facility they can be proud of. With increased mat space, new locker rooms, and upgraded training equipment, we are creating an environment that will enhance the student-athlete experience and help position Binghamton Wrestling for continued success for years to come.
 
"We are incredibly grateful to our alumni, donors, and supporters whose generosity helped make this possible," Senior Deputy Director of Athletics Dennis Kalina said. "Their commitment to our program continues to create life-changing opportunities for our student-athletes."
 
Upon completion of the project, the current wrestling room will be turned over to the Health & Wellness Studies (HWS) Division of the Decker College of Nursing and Health Sciences for use as additional class space.
 
Binghamton wrestling is coming off a season that featured two NCAA qualifiers, six EIWA placewinners and four NWCA Scholar All-Americans. LeBlanc's Bearcats went 4-1 against conference opponents.