Seemingly every year, NC State wrestling features an elite talent who can compete with anyone in the country. From Nick Gwiazdowski to most recently Trent Hidlay, many all-time greats have donned the red-and-white. This season, the next of those has emerged — redshirt freshman Vince Robinson.
After redshirting last season, Robinson has become one of the stars of the sport. Ranked No. 3 nationally, Robinson has positioned himself as the favorite in the 125-pound class for the ACC title, and a potential national championship contender. Despite his inexperience, Robinson is already near the top of his class with multiple years ahead to improve his craft.
In his latest bout, Robinson won one of the most important matches for any NC State wrestler this season. In a heated 16-16 match with No. 18 North Carolina, Robinson was the Wolfpack’s last competitor, facing No. 13 Spencer Moore. From a 12-match winning streak over Carolina to an undefeated conference record, everything was on the line for NC State.
While most freshmen would be intimidated by such a high-stakes bout, Robinson stepped to the mat as confident as ever and rightfully so. Aggressively seeking takedowns, Robinson manhandled his opponent, showing no signs of inexperience or hesitation. When the damage was done, Robinson left the mat with a decisive 10-4 decision.
“I was ready for the moment,” Robinson said after defeating Moore. “That’s just the type of moments I live for. … I like shining and I like the big lights.”
The match showcased everything about Robinson and his game. Confidence, speed and consistency were on full display. Notably, Robinson’s teammates also had confidence in the rising star. Despite his youthfulness, his teammates had seen him handle previous opponents and knew he’d seal the deal for the red-and-white.
“It was really good to see everyone on their feet,” said redshirt junior Isaac Trumble after Robinson’s win. “It was good seeing Vinny be able to seal out the duel. That was fun.”
The match wasn’t Robinson’s first time shining in the spotlight either. The Wolfpack suffered a 34-3 smackdown at No. 3 Oklahoma State where only one Wolfpack wrestler won a match: Robinson. Ranked No. 2 nationally at the time, the Cowboys’ Troy Spratley may have seemed like a shoo-in for a win to an outsider. However, Robinson announced his presence nationally with a 7-3 victory. Seizing the lead with a first-period takedown, Robinson never looked back and led the remainder of the match, vaulting himself near the top of the national rankings.
Under head coach Pat Popolizio, NC State has built an identity that matches Robinson. Much like wrestlers before him, Robinson is a hard worker and shows no mercy on the mat, scoring critical extra points whenever he can. Additionally, Robinson is a tireless worker who begins winning matches with his work in practice.
“I just prepare myself,” Robinson said. “Prepare myself for this in the practice room, every day we go through it so that I’m ready and prepared.”
Before reaching postseason play, Robinson has a couple more matches, likely including his toughest ACC bout of the season. Virginia Tech’s No. 5 Eddie Ventresca — a former All-American and ACC runner-up in 2023 — will certainly be a challenge for Robinson. However, Robinson’s best wins have come on the road and he’ll be ready for this challenge.
Regardless of how the rest of the season goes, the future is bright for the Wolfpack and Robinson. With a rising star that’s only a redshirt freshman, NC State will remain dangerous on the mat for years to come.
