New York, NY – The Hunter College athletic community is saddened by the sudden loss of a former wrestling standout, Arkadiy "Archy" Levitin, who passed away on January 22, 2010.

Levitin, finished his four-year career at Hunter last season with a 74-11 record as one of the program's most dominant heavyweights. Making an impact from the moment he stepped onto the mat, Levitin recorded a 30-4 record in his first season and became the first ever freshman to win the New York State Championship and was just one of two freshmen to compete in the NCAA Championship Tournament that year. During his career, Levitin would place at the New York State Championships three-times, won two Metropolitan Conference Championships, advanced to the NCAA Tournament twice and was named an NCAA All-American. He also holds the school record for most pins and most wins in a season, along with quickest pin in a match.

“I consider myself fortunate to have coached Archy, and to have developed a close relationship with him”, stated Hunter Athletic Hall of Fame Coach Bob Gaudenzi. “He really generated so much interest and excitement for this program, because everyone loved to see him wrestle. He really had an impact on the program.”

Current interim head coach at Hunter, Mike Simmon, had the following to say about Levitin, "As a teammate and close friend of Archie's it was remarkable to know someone with such a magnetic personality, big heart and limitless potential both on and off the mat. Archie was truly one of a kind, and I am sure he is smiling down as he watches over us."

“Archy was a contradiction in many ways. As intimating a presence that he appeared, he was really a gentle giant. When we first met, he explained staying close to home was a priority to care for his mother who lost her battle with cancer his freshman year. He was a care giver, throughout his life. He was loyal to his teammates, friends, and to Hunter's athletic program,” stated Hunter's Director of Athletics, Recreation and Intramurals, Terry Wansart. “He brought a lot of excitement to our wrestling/athletic program and losing him so young, is one of the saddest moments in our history.”

A wake will be held on Saturday, January 30 from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and then again on Sunday from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at De Riso Funeral Home (5012 4th Avenue, Brooklyn, NY). The funeral will be on Monday at 12:30 p.m. at the Russian Orthodox Church on 75 East 93rd Street New York, NY.

There will also be a celebration of Levitin's life on February 3, following the first round of Hunter's home quad match starting at 5:00 p.m. Anyone who would like to contribute to the celebration can do so by sending in your favorite memories, stories or even just a statement about Levitin. Please send those to jdebened@hunter.cuny.edu.

Check back here for updates and more information regarding that celebration in the coming days.