LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The Bellarmine University wrestling team made its Division I debut last weekend, and the Knights are set to make their Southern Conference debut Sunday.

In full-throttle mode now, Bellarmine (0-2) will compete against Davidson (0-0) and tri-meet host Appalachian State (0-1) in Varsity Gym. The duals will unfold at 1 p.m. (ET) and 2:30 p.m., respectively.

"We have spent nearly a year in somewhat of an idle, then now, we are pedal-to-metal full speed ahead," Knights Coach Spencer Adams said. "This is definitely a unique season, that's for sure. I'm not going to complain too much, though, because at least we are able to compete."

Bellarmine competed for the first time as a Division I program last Sunday in duals against Northern Illinois and tri-meet host SIU Edwardsville, falling 46-0 and 39-6. In the latter, senior Eric Beck (165) became the first Knight to record a win in the DI era after earning a 5-2 decision. Sophomore Devan Hendricks (174) also notched a victory with a 6-5 decision.

"Last weekend didn't go as well as I would have liked," Adams said. "To be honest, we were flat and were wrestling reactively instead of taking the match to our opponents. I think the nerves and anticipation got to us."

"On a positive note, the guys came in this week and got straight to work," Adams added. "They have worked hard this week and have put in the time needed to make a change heading into this weekend. The biggest difference is their overall attitude. I feel good about where we are right now — it may or may not translate onto the mat this weekend, but we are certainly getting better and heading in the right direction. A special congratulations to Eric on picking up the first-ever win for our program in DI. He has come a long way in four years, and I couldn't be happier for him."

Appalachian State is receiving votes in the NWCA poll and is ostensibly the 29th-ranked team in the country. Over the past six seasons, the Mountaineers boast a 37-4 conference record. Will Formato (165) this week was named both the SoCon's Wrestler of the Week and Student-Athlete of the Week.

"Both are good teams, and in the recent rankings, App State has four guys ranked in the top 30 in their weight classes," Adams said. "For us, this means we have four guys in particular that have an opportunity to make a name for themselves. With every challenge comes opportunity. I'm excited to compete again this weekend. The guys seem ready and focused. I feel like we are in a good place right now."

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