Exactly one month ago today, and a few days before the NCAA Championships, Jarod Verkleeren announced his decision to transfer out of Penn State upon graduation and entered the transfer portal. Today he publicly revealed on Twitter that he will further his education at the University of Virginia.
Verkleeren’s statement: “Grateful for the last 4 years at PSU and thankful for everyone who reached out to me during this process. After lots of prayers, I am very excited for the opportunity to wrestle and pursue a Masters Degree at The University of Virginia. #GoHoos #Believe”
As a Nittany Lion, Verkleeren spent time in and out of the lineup at 149 lbs. This season he wrestled only one match against Indiana. In 2020, Verkleeren qualified for his first NCAA Championships after placing 9th. Should 149 lbs. stay the same next year, his transfer to the ACC should be an interesting one with NCAA Champion Austin O’Connor (UNC) and All-American Tariq Wilson (NCST) both returning to the mat.