Recruiting has already been underway and in full force for the Class of 2027; however, it wasn’t until today that we saw the first public commitment (if I’m wrong, please tell me) from a Virginia wrestler. That young man is Brentsville’s Leland Cline, who has given a verbal to Mercyhurst University in Pennsylvania.
Cline is a three-time state medalist and a two-time state runner-up for the Tigers. He also claimed 3A Region B titles during his freshman and junior years.
In 2025-26, Cline finished the year 33-6 and fell in the 144 lb state finals to double Fargo All-American Reza Massjouni of Christiansburg. Cline advanced to the state finals after three pins, including one over Region C champion Peyton Stanbery i(Brookville) in the semis.
During the 2025-26 regular season, Cline finished second at the Judges Invitational and the Damascus Holiday Invitational. He also competed at the Beast of the East and tallied three wins along the way.
Cline would be the second Virginia native on Mercyhurst’s men’s team. 2025 6A state champion Luca Schinelli of Grassfield, from the Class of 2026, signed with the Lakers.
In our latest Class of 2027 rankings, Cline comes in at #46 overall amongst rising seniors.
Mercyhurst is in the process of transitioning from DII to DI status. The 2028-29 season will be the first where they can participate in the DI postseason.
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