Feb. 16, 2005

Old Dominion head coach Steve Martin has put the Monarchs on the map in his first year at the helm.

But who didn't think he would?  After all, Martin has been successful everywhere he has been.  As a wrestler, he was a three-time Virginia high school state champion and All-American at the University of Iowa.  As a coach, prior to coming to Old Dominion, he led Great Bridge High School (Virginia) to 13 state championships in 14 years.  Each of those years, Martin's Wildcats were nationally ranked.

Old Dominion has improved drastically since Martin has taken over the program.  Although not yet a national powerhouse, the Monarchs are making great strides.  Below is a quick look at the progress they've made from last season to this season.

Last season:  7-12 overall record (.368) and 5-3 in the Colonial Athletic Association.

This season:  11-5 overall record (.688) and 6-2 in the CAA.

Last season:  Lost 39-6 to Rider.

This season:  Won 26-16 over Rider.

Last season:  Lost 34-9 to Boston.

This season:  Won 20-18 over Boston.

Last season:  Beat Sacred Heart by three points.

This season:  Beat Sacred Heart by 25 points.

Last season:  Lost 21-20 to VMI.

This season: Won 27-11 over VMI.

Last season:  Lost 27-21 to North Carolina State.

This season:  Won 23-13 over North Carolina State.

Last season:  Had four wrestlers with 20 or more wins.

This season:  Already have seven wrestlers with 20 or more wins.