Each grappler had his own reason for leaving, but junior Brad Pataky believes Sanderson's no-nonsense approach was a contributing factor. "The discipline is there," Pataky said. "Either go with it or go another direction. Those other directions aren't negative, they're just not what we need." While Jenkins and Macciaroli were both redshirting this season, Pisani had worked his way into the starting role at 141-pounds before leaving the team. It is now the job of Adam Lynch to fill the void left by Pisani. Sophomore Clay Steadman, who rooms with Pisani, said there was some surprise behind the 141-pounder's departure. Pisani, who was unavailable for comment, beat the then-No. 8 wrestler in the country during the Dec. 6 Nittany Lion Open, and Steadman believes he was doing well in the early portion of the season. But Steadman had some understanding of the reasons why he left the team. "He said he didn't have the drive for it anymore," Steadman said. "He didn't want to be in something that his heart wasn't in." Steadman also had a connection to Macchiaroli as they were the only two 197-pounders on the team. Macchiaroli, who could not be reached for comment, transferred to Arizona State to be closer to home. Steadman said he sensed Macchiaroli was uncomfortable in State College from the excitement he had to go home for Thanksgiving break. Macchiaroli's transfer puts some pressure on Steadman, who said it's important he avoids injuries and doesn't make "stupid decisions" again after he was held out of two dual meets earlier in the season for drinking alcohol on his 21st birthday. The team has a no-drinking policy during the season.
The departure of Jenkins, a decision made by the coaching staff, doesn't have a great impact on the Lions' future this season as Frank Molinaro has had success filling in at 149. Molinaro is ranked No. 5 at that weight and was the Lions' last remaining undefeated wrestler before dropping a bout Saturday to No. 4 Kyle Terry of Oklahoma. Still, the presence of Jenkins -- who said he may not have fit in with Sanderson's style of wrestling -- is something sophomore Cameron Wade will miss. "It's sad to lose someone from your team, especially good wrestlers," Wade said. "You never want anyone to quit, especially someone you've been on the team with since you've been there, but if their heart's not in it anymore they've just got to make that decision for themselves." The impact of losing the three wrestlers will be felt most during practice as the depth of the team decreases. Steadman said it's difficult to get better if each grappler doesn't have tough competition pushing them in practice. However, the team is still in good position heading into Big Ten meets. Pataky has faith and trust in the coaches and has no animosity toward his departed teammates. "I've known those guys for a while, and they're real nice guys," Pataky said. "They obviously have different goals, and I wish them the best in anything that comes their way."
Thanks to Ryan Loy and the "Daily Collegian" (PSU) for the article