Wrestling Duo Hartmann, Ryan in the News

DURHAM, N.C.—Exciting news today for the Duke wrestling program as a current Blue Devil and a former Blue Devil made news. The duo of redshirt senior Conner Hartmann and 2015 graduate Dylan Ryan continue to excel for the Blue Devils, garnering top rankings and top awards.

Hartmann, a two-time All-American at 197 pounds, was tabbed third in the FloWrestling preseason rankings. The Port Orchard, Wash., native looks to become Duke's first three-time All-American as well as the Blue Devils first wrestling national champion. He is 68-27 for his career and has finished fifth and sixth at the NCAA Championships the past two seasons, respectively.

In 2015, Hartmann captured the ACC title at 197 pounds and went undefeated against ACC foes a year ago. Ranked throughout the season, he went 4-1 against ranked foes and upset the No. 2 seed in the NCAA Champions to advance to the national semifinals.

Ryan, Duke's leader on and off the mat during his career, recently garnered with the 2015 1A FAR Academic Excellence Award. The honor is bestowed upon those who graduated in the past academic year with at least a 3.80 cumulative grade point average and have participated in at least two years of varsity athletics at an FBS institution.

Perhaps one of the most impactful wrestlers on the roster, Ryan (aka Rhino) was honored with an award named for him – the Dylan Ryan Rhino 11th Man Award, which will be given to the best teammate. Ryan's presence and influence was felt in all facets of the program and on Duke's campus. He started Duke's chapter of Athlete Ally and has been an unquestioned leader throughout his four years.

The Blue Devils open the season Nov. 8 at the Hokie Open. Duke's first home dual will be Jan. 6 against ACC foe NC State.

#GoDuke