By Drew Roberts

On March 16th in Park City, Kan., Gabe Hixenbaugh wrestled his way into Montevallo history, becoming the first national champion in school history.

The graduate student from Alabaster was undefeated in the wrestling team’s inaugural season, boasting a record of 31-0. The deciding match saw Hixenbaugh defeating his opponent 4-1, sealing his victory in the 133-pound division.

Hixenbaugh reflected on the help he received to achieve his goal, saying, “I feel really good. I’ve been waiting all year and a long time to prove something like this and it feels amazing having these guys in my corner. And the support I’ve had all year has been unmatched, and I couldn’t ask for anything better.”

After the excitement of the win, Wrestling Coach Daniel Owenby praised Hixenbaugh’s work ethic, saying “It’s incredible. Gabe’s put together an incredible season, undefeated national champ, first-ever in school history—not only for our program for the entire school, and I couldn’t be more proud of him, and just watching him work day in and day out on the mat and in the classroom. It’s just exactly what we want here.”

Many members of the athletic department, as well as fellow athletes, greeted Hixenbaugh as he returned to the Student Activity Center.

For more coverage on Hixenbaugh’s historic season visit montevallfalcons.com and Montevallo Wrestling’s Instagram page.