BY TOM ROCK
Newsday Staff Writer
Two-time state champion wrestler Ryan Patrovich, once the cornerstone of Hofstra’s incoming recruiting class, has signed a national letter of intent to attend Ohio State in the fall. Patrovich had signed to attend Hofstra earlier in the year, but when Pride wrestling coach Tom Ryan left to take the Ohio State job in April, Patrovich asked for a release from his commitment.
Patrovich said the decision was not merely between Ohio State and Hofstra. He met with Wisconsin coach Barry Davis Wednesday night before making up his mind yesterday morning. He signed and faxed the letter June 1st.
Patrovich said he did not choose Ohio State solely because of his relationship with Ryan. He said the facilities and atmosphere at the Columbus campus were overwhelming. “It really opened my eyes, “he said.
Tom Shifflet, Hofstra’s new wrestling coach, had hoped to convince Patrovich to stay on Long Island.
“There was a chance of me staying [at Hofstra], but I took the visits and explored the opportunities a bit, “said Patrovich, a senior at Islip High School whose brother Mike, a senior at Hofstra this coming season, is the returning CAA Wrestler of the Year.
Patrovich met with Hofstra assistant coach Rob Anspach in the last few days as the Pride made its final pitches to the coveted recruit.
Shifflet was successful in convincing three-time state champion Louie Ruggirello of upstate Valley Central to maintain his commitment to Hofstra. Shifflet was not available for comment yesterday.
Hofstra had hoped to become a Top 10 or even Top 5 program with both Patrovich and Ruggirello on the roster. The Pride finished 11th at this year’s NCAA Championships.
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