AJ News

By Adam Roberts aroberts@theabingtonjournal.com

Lackawanna Trail and Pittsburgh University graduate and 2012 Olympic wresting hopeful Keith Gavin will move his training to the Lehigh Valley this week.

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Gavin

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Former Lackawanna Trail coach Keith Youtz, left, and 2008 NCAA Division I wrestling champion Keith Gavin share a smile during a reception held in Gavin’s honor at the Inne of the Abingtons on May 2., 2008

Abington Journal file photo / Alice Stuffle

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The 2008 Division I NCAA wrestling champion will leave his post as second assistant coach with the Panthers to focus on training with the Lehigh Valley Athletic Club.

“It was hard to be on staff and train,” Gavin said. “I’d be in Russia (for a match) and the team would be at a dual meet.”

Gavin added that the situation wasn’t fair to the team or his training.

Aside from leaving behind his coaching responsibilities, the decision to move to Lehigh was fueled by a good relationship with their coaching staff.

Gavin said he knows and trusts coaches and assistants with the program.

While at Pitt, Gavin was sponsored by the New York Athletic Club. His new sponsorship with the Lehigh Valley Athletic Club will fund his trips and provide bonuses for wins and other accomplishments.

Gavin will be training with fellow 2012 Olympic hopeful, Matt Valenti. Valenti is a two-time national champion from the University of Pennsylvania.

When he arrives at Lehigh, Gavin plans to help the coaching staff with some of their summer camps and train. He has no upcoming events.

Gavin’s training is the continuation of an already impressive wresting career. He finished his college campaign with a record of 120-37, including two appearances in the national finals in the 174-pound bracket. He capped his college career with a Division I title during his senior year.

He also competed in the 2008 Olympic trials where he posted a record of 2-2.