The New York University wrestling team is competing at the Petrofes Invitational, hosted by Messiah University in Mechanicsburg, PA, on Friday and Saturday, December 5-6.

The Violets were extremely productive on Friday, accumulating 109 points to grab the lead in the 15-team competition.

Host Messiah is in second place (102.5).

Eight NYU individuals have qualified for Saturday's semifinals in eight of the 10 weight classes:

125 - Xavier Diaz
133 - Jacob Venezia
149 - John Mairano
157 - Robert Leeds
165 - Nicky Bell
174 - Cristian Gioia
184 - Justin Mayes
HWT - Nathan Faxon

"Our guys competed well today, but we need to finish strong," said Associate Head Coach Corey Luce. "We have some key match-ups tomorrow we are looking forward to." 

The second day of competition begins at 9:00am on Saturday