GREENVILLE, S.C. – Montevallo sophomore Cole Hunt earned Conference Carolinas Wrestler of the Week honors following a dominant debut for the Falcons at Saturday's Pepsi Patriot Open.

Competing for the first time in Purple and Gold, Hunt captured the 125-pound Open division title, including wins over two ranked NAIA opponents. He opened with a 9-2 fall over Tate Thomas (Truett McConnell) and a 5-2 pin against Chaz McDonald (Southeastern).

Hunt then defeated No. 3 Matteo Vargo (University of the Cumberlands) 11-5 in the quarterfinals. After advancing via a medical forfeit, he closed the day with a major decision over No. 25 Jordan Rodriguez (Cleary) to claim the championship.

To view the full Conference Carolinas release, click here.

Hunt and the Falcons return home on Thursday to host Truett McConnell at 6:30 p.m. for the start of their 2025-26 home schedule.