CSUB Wrestling Celebrated Program’s 50th Anniversary

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. – The Cal State Bakersfield Roadrunners enjoyed a celebration of 50 years of wrestling history on Oct. 22 with 270 alumni, coaches, and friends and supporters of the program in attendance at Stockdale Country Club. The sold-out event, presented by the Coyote Club, was made possible by the many generous supporters of one of CSUB's most successful athletic programs.

"We have overwhelming support from the alumni and community," said Luke Smith, Bakersfield's fourth-year Head Coach. "It was amazing for everyone to come together and for our guys to see who they represent when they step on the mat."

Smith said that he was pleasantly surprised to discover that at least one member of all 50 teams was in attendance at the 50th Anniversary celebration on Saturday. The program also enjoyed support from House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, Bakersfield Mayor Karen Goh, and CSUB's new Director of Athletics Kyle Conder during the evening's festivities.

"This event wouldn't have been possible without support from the community, fans, and alumni," Smith continued. "The `Runners would like to give special thanks to Vernon and Janis Varner, Craig Tobin, and Greg Kerr."

Gallery: (10-22-2022) Wrestling 50th Anniversary Event

The `Runners have a history of competitive success. By the numbers, CSUB has won 480 dual meets (.641 winning percentage) and has produced 132 All-Americans, 63 World or International qualifiers, 49-straight NCAA tournament appearances, 37 Pac-12 Champions, 24 United States Champions, 18 Olympians, 16 NCAA National Champions, and 7 Conference Championship titles.

The 2022-23 edition of the CSUB wrestling squad will kick off the 51st season in program history in early November. Smith will lead the `Runners into battle on the mat, looking to continue the long legacy of CSUB wrestling success with another standout season.

Season Tickets are now on sale for CSUB wrestling home events, which includes a matchup in the Icardo Center against the Michigan Wolverines, the 2022 National Runners-Up. Fans interested in either Season Tickets or Single-Game Tickets can find more information at GoRunners.com/Tickets or by calling 661-654-BLUE.

~GoRunners.com~

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