As of February 25, 2025, Penn State Wrestling has confirmed that Mitchell Mesenbrink will not be sparring again this season. This decision follows a series of injuries that have impacted the team’s lineup.
Mesenbrink, a standout at 165 pounds, has been a key contributor to the Nittany Lions’ success. Earlier in the season, he achieved a perfect 12-0 record in duals, including four pins, nine technical falls, and four major decisions. He was also named the Big Ten Champion and Big Ten Freshman of the Year. citeturn0search1
However, recent events have led to his withdrawal from sparring. In a dual meet against Maryland on February 9, 2025, Mesenbrink secured a technical fall victory over Alex Uryniak, contributing to Penn State’s 35-10 win. citeturn0search8 Despite this success, the team has been grappling with injuries to several key wrestlers. Notably, Tyler Kasak, the top-ranked wrestler at 157 pounds, suffered an injury during the same meet, leading to his withdrawal from the competition. citeturn0search6
The decision to have Mesenbrink cease sparring is part of a broader strategy to manage the team’s health and ensure optimal performance for the remainder of the season. Head coach Cael Sanderson has emphasized the importance of maintaining the well-being of his athletes, stating, “You prefer no injuries, but that’s a part of life and sports. It happens.” citeturn0search3
While the specific details of Mesenbrink’s injury have not been publicly disclosed, the team’s medical staff is closely monitoring his condition. The focus remains on his recovery, with the hope of returning him to competition in the future.
In the meantime, Penn State Wrestling continues to demonstrate resilience, with other athletes stepping up to fill the gaps left by these injuries. The team’s depth and commitment to excellence remain evident as they navigate this challenging period.
For a closer look at Mesenbrink’s performance earlier in the season, you can watch his technical fall victory against American:
