Two weeks ago, David Erwin's role on the Penn State wrestling team was up in the air.
Expected to be the starter at 174, Erwin ran into early difficulties and looked troubled during his matches.
Now, after going 5-1 the last two weekends, the Nittany Lion senior has found a new home since moving up a weight class to 184 pounds.
Coach Cael Sanderson said Erwin needed to change his mentality during the rough start to the season. That's exactly what the grappler did, and Erwin believes it has benefited him.
"I've been focusing on wrestling," Erwin said. "I'm not worrying about my weight. I'm just going out and doing what I know how to do."
When in reality he's actually added weight as he bulks up, Erwin said the move up to 184 has taken a weight off his shoulders mentally. While competing at 184, Erwin hasn't had to worry about conserving energy for the final period and has been more relaxed during his matches.
Matches weren't as simple when he wrestled at 174, as Erwin seemingly competed against two opponents at a time. Assistant coach Troy Letters believed one of the senior's biggest battles was keeping his weight, which took his mind off of wrestling.
"His focus was making weight [at 174]," Letters said. "I think now he can focus on the right things. That all relates to the success that he records."
The benefits of a clear mind have been present in the statistics from Erwin's last six matches.
In his five victories, the 184-pounder has won twice by major decision and pinned an opponent. He also defeated Edinboro's two-time NCAA qualifier Pat Bradshaw 6-4 in the Nov. 22 Sprawl and Brawl Duals.
Erwin said it was good to get some wins under his belt during that stretch, and he believes the success has helped him regain some confidence.
One person who never lost confidence in the senior's ability was Sanderson, who knew Erwin just needed to work and get back to a point when wrestling became enjoyable again. That time has come quickly with his move to 184.
Sanderson said Erwin defeated a couple solid opponents at 184 at critical points for the Lions. Erwin's first match at 184 was a major decision victory that helped the Lions sneak by Rutgers with an 18-17 win.
With Erwin's initial success at his new weight, he's been able to fill a gap that troubled the Lions early in the season. Sanderson said he expects some big things out of Erwin and believes his status as a senior fifth-year senior should provide him the necessary experience to achieve those expectations.
"[Erwin] is talented, and we feel like he can compete with anybody in the country," Sanderson said. "It's just a matter of him enjoying himself and having some fun."
To e-mail reporter: rml5138@psu.edu
