MELVILLE, N.Y. – The Long Island University wrestling program kicked off its 2019-20 season with a gathering of alumni and program supporters last week at The Refuge to celebrate the program's elevation to Division I status.
 
The LIU wrestling program will begin competition at the Division I level as the 17th member of the Eastern Intercollegiate Wrestling Association (EIWA) this season. In October, the university announced its unification of its Brooklyn and Post campuses, forming a unified Division I athletic program.
 
In conjunction with the elevation to Division I status, the wrestling team along with LIU's 28 other varsity programs will compete as the Sharks and will don a blue and gold color scheme as part of the University's rebranding.
 
Over 140 supporters gathered at the event where head coach Joe Patrovich revealed a preview of the 2019-20 schedule to help build excitement about the new direction of the program.
 
"The Staff of LIU Wrestling would like to thank all 140-plus friends and family that came to the celebration of LIU moving to Division I event at The Refuge last week.  The event was great, and we appreciate your support," commented Patrovich.
 
LIU will open competition on Sat. Nov. 2 against Rutgers University, Stevenson University, and Centenary University. The team will gather on Sunday, June 16, when they participate in the Ray Downey Run in Deer Park.