Hampden-Sydney College Director of Athletics Richard Epperson has announced the hiring of Chris Conkwright as head wrestling coach beginning March 1.

Conkwright will take the reins from Mac Main, who will return to his full time position as the Tigers’ head golf coach. 

“We are excited to have Chris Conkwright join our staff as head wrestling coach,” said Epperson.

“Chris brings a wealth of coaching experience and recruiting connections to our newest intercollegiate sport, and I am confident he will build a highly competitive wrestling program here at Hampden-Sydney College.”

While growing up in Virginia Beach, Conkwright won state and national high school and AAU wrestling titles. After winning the Atlantic Coast Conference Tournament at the University of North Carolina, he moved on to Virginia Tech where he served as team captain and assistant coach.

He graduated from Virginia Tech with a bachelor of science degree in horticulture and studies in biology.

His wrestling coaching duties after college took him to Frank W. Cox High School in Virginia Beach and Appomattox High School, where his teams produced numerous all-state performers and he received multiple Coach of the Year awards.

“I want the young men coming to Hampden-Sydney to have the chance to wrestle at a high level, while also getting a great education in a unique setting,” Conkwright said.

“It’s important that wrestling is just one of the tools used here at Hampden-Sydney for transforming young men into gentlemen. This program is basically starting anew with my immediate goal to fill the room and roster with quality wrestlers — a process that may take a few recruiting cycles. I look forward to having the opportunity of becoming a positive part of these young men’s lives and becoming part of the Hampden-Sydney community.”

Conkwright lives in Prince Edward County with his wife, Jennifer, and sons Tanner and Collin.