Drexel announces addition of David McFadden to wrestling staff
by Drexel Athletic Communications
Feature graphic courtesy of Drexel University Athletic Communications.
Philadelphia, Pa. - The Mert ’67 and Joanne ’69 Hill Head Coach of Wrestling Matt Azevedo announced today the addition of four-time All-American David McFadden as a volunteer assistant coach. A graduate of Virginia Tech, McFadden will bring knowledge and experience to help Drexel continue its climb up the national ranks. Drexel Wrestling has high expectations for the 2021-22 season and the addition of McFadden will benefit the already highly talented line-up.
“David has had success as a competitor at every level and I know his wisdom and expertise will be a huge asset for our program,” Azevedo said. “David brings passion and excitement to everything he does and more importantly he embodies what it means to Bring the HEAT. His energy is contagious, and I can’t wait for him to get to work with our team.”
Pennsylvania Regional Training Center Head Coach and Executive Director Brandon Slay is equally enthusiastic about David beginning his new role.
“Part of our vision of the PRTC is to maximize the development of college wrestlers in Philly. So, having David join the Drexel coaching staff aligns with our vision, and I am very excited about the impact David will have on the Dragon wrestlers. And, since David wants to be a full-time coach when he is done competing, I am encouraged David will be able to learn from Coach Azevedo to sharpen his sword as a leader and coach,” said Slay.
McFadden was a member of the Hokies’ wrestling program from 2015 until 2020 and was a four-time All-American, a two-time ACC Champion and the 2016 ACC Freshman of the Year. In addition, McFadden was a part of the U23 World Team in 2018 and was a U23 National Champion in 2020.
The West Milford, N.J. native, graduated in 2020 from Virginia Tech with a degree in human development and arrived in Philadelphia to pursue his goal of making the U.S. Olympic/World Team while training at the Pennsylvania Regional Training Center (PRTC).
“I am super excited to join the Drexel wrestling program as the volunteer assistant coach,” McFadden said, “Not only does this allow me to keep training and competing but allows me to impact the Drexel University wrestling team directly.”