January 9, 2003

HAMPTON, Va. - The Virginia Tech wrestling team will open play in the 22nd annual Virginia Duals against No. 18 Hofstra Friday at 9 a.m., in the Hampton Coliseum, as announced Thursday night following the seeding meeting.

Hofstra (3-1) is led by several wrestlers ranked in the top 25 in the latest InterMat Wrestling poll. Chris Skretkowicz leads the way at 197 pounds, ranking fourth for the fifth straight week. Noel Thompson at 165 pounds is ranked seventh in the nation.

Tech is 0-3 on the year, dropping matches to Minnesota, Chattanooga and Ohio University.

The Hokies are hoping to regain the services of 13th-ranked Scott Justus at 184 pounds, who has missed several weeks due to injury.

Depending on Friday morning's results, Tech will either wrestle again at 1, 3 or 5 p.m. The Virginia Duals is a double-elimination tournament.