West Virginia University Athletics

West Virginia native who has physically worked to build himself into a contributor ... his experience last year boosted his confidence ... gained strength and size during the off-season ... worked his way into a starting role at SLB in 2004 ... also a key component of the special teams ... 15 tackles for the year ... pair of tackles against East Carolina ... starter at Connecticut, making seven tackles, forcing a fumble, with a TFL, pass deflection and a 15-yard interception ... pair of tackles in Syracuse win ... sack with four tackles in the Temple win ... Defensive Champion: Connecticut ... recipient of 2004 Tom Nickolich Memorial Award from Blue and Gold News for outstanding dedication by a walk-on in the WVU program ... gained experience at linebacker in 2003, and on the punt, punt block, kickoff and kickoff return units ... three tackles at East Carolina ... pair of stops at Miami ... five tackles in the Syracuse win ... saw his first action in 2002 on special teams ... pair of tackles in wins against Rutgers and Syracuse ... rookie of the week: Rutgers ... did not see varsity action, but won the 2001 Danny Van Etten Award as the defensive player of the year on the Mountaineer scout teams ... scout team player of the week: Boston College ... three-sport captain at East Fairmont High ... played football for Coach Billy Haddix ... North-South all-star game ... 2001 state wrestling champion at 215 lbs. ... also a baseball letterman ... birthday is January 18 ... son of Jeff and Karen Noechel ... majoring in education and history ... Athletic Director’s Academic Honor Roll ... BIG EAST academic all-star (2004)