NCWA Women’s Wrestling Membership Explodes
The National Collegiate Wrestling Association is seeing unprecedented growth in its women’s wrestling division. Since introducing a national championship for women in 2007 with just seven teams, the NCWA has expanded to 86 schools now sponsoring women’s wrestling programs. This season alone, 27 new programs joined, adding to last year’s total of 59 teams.
The surge highlights a rising demand for women’s wrestling opportunities in collegiate athletics. The NCWA’s steady commitment to supporting and promoting women’s wrestling is paying off as the sport continues to grow nationwide. This years Nationals will be expanded from a two day event to three days with competition beginning Thursday March 13th 2025. With a vibrant community of 86 schools, NCWA women’s wrestling is primed for an exciting year.
Teams to watch this season include Washington State, Ottawa University Arizona, … more at … https://ncwa.net/news/2024/ncwa-womens-wrestling-membership-explodes
NWCA Announces Return of National Dual Meet Championships to UNI-Dome in Cedar Falls, IA, January 10-11, 2025
102 Teams to Compete Across Six Divisions, Including NCAA Division I Men’s Teams for the First Time Since 2017
MANHEIM, PA – The National Wrestling Coaches Association (NWCA) is excited to announce the return of the NWCA/USMC Multi-Division National Dual Meet Championships, presented by A Better Way Athletics, Capitol Construction, and Defense Soap, set to take place on January 10-11, 2025, at the UNI-Dome in Cedar Falls, IA. This marks the first time since 2017 that NCAA Division I Men’s teams will compete in this prestigious event.
The National Duals will feature a highly competitive field, with teams from six divisions: NAIA Men, NAIA Women, NCAA D1 Men, NCAA D2 Men, NCAA D3 Men, and NCAA Women. In total, 102 teams will battle over two days of action, culminating in the championship finals on Saturday afternoon, January 11. 54% of the programs participating, were established since the year 2000.
“This year’s National Dual Meet Championships promises to be an exciting and intense competition with some of the best wrestlers in the country going head-to-head,” said NWCA Executive Director Mike Moyer. “We are thrilled to return to the UNI-Dome, a venue with a rich wrestling history, and bring the National Duals back to fans … more at … https://nwcaonline.com/news/2024/11/8/national-wrestling-coaches-association-nwca-announces-return-of-national-dual-meet-championships-to-uni-dome-in-cedar-falls-ia-january-10-11-2025.aspx?utm_source=social&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=national_duals&utm_content=NWCA&utm_id=banner
HBCU Wrestling and Delaware State Announce the First Ever Division I Women’s Wrestling Program
DOVER — HBCU Wrestling and Delaware State University (DSU) are proud to announce the historic launch of the first-ever Division I women’s wrestling program at an HBCU, a major milestone made possible by a generous $1.25 million gift from HBCU Wrestling. This initiative represents more than just an expansion in athletics; it is a commitment to equitable opportunities, reflecting both institutions’ dedication to creating pathways where student-athletes can thrive.
“The partnership with HBCU Wrestling gives our women student-athletes a platform to compete, grow, and inspire others. We are excited for this new chapter and the impact it will have for years to come,” said Dr. Alecia Shields-Gadson, Director of Athletics.
The Delaware State University athletics department will immediately begin the search for a head coach. The first season for the women’s wrestling program is set to begin in the 2025-26 season.
Founded in 2021, HBCU Wrestling has made it its mission to bring wrestling back to HBCUs, giving young athletes the chance to excel in sports while being empowered as leaders. This movement began with a $2.7 million gift to Morgan State University, leading to the revitalization of its wrestling program. With the launch of DSU’s women’s team, HBCU Wrestling continues its mission to increase representation and opportunity in collegiate sports.
Restoring Tradition, Advancing Equity
Delaware State University’s history in wrestling spans decades, and it was the last HBCU to offer a Division I wrestling program before it was discontinued in 2009 due to financial and compliance challenges. The closure of DSU’s program mirrored a broader trend, as many universities—both HBCUs and others—faced similar pressures that led to the elimination of wrestling programs nationwide. Now, with HBCU Wrestling’s strategic support, DSU is not only reviving its program but doing so in a way that aligns with Title IX standards and promotes gender equity. This new program opens the doors for DSU to develop a sustainable, competitive team where young women athletes can reach their full potential.
“This announcement is not only about wrestling; it’s about expanding access to life-changing opportunities,” said Jahi Jones, Executive Director of HBCU Wrestling. “At HBCU Wrestling, we’ve built a foundation that now allows young women to succeed, thrive, and lead while still being in an environment where they feel seen, valued, and loved. This program aligns with the incredible growth of women’s wrestling nationwide, and I look forward to a strong, lasting partnership with Delaware State University that will inspire and empower future generations.”
A New Era for HBCU Athletics
DSU President Tony Allen highlighted the significance of this partnership.
“Delaware State University is proud to take this historic step in advancing opportunities for women in sports,” said Tony Allen, President of DSU. “We’re also thankful for our partnership with HBCU Wrestling, which … more at … https://dsuhornets.com/news/2024/11/7/general-hbcu-wrestling-and-delaware-state-announce-the-first-ever-division-i-womens-wrestling-program.aspx
UNC Wrestling Sweeps Duals, Three Collect Open Championships Saturday
ANNAPOLIS, Md. – North Carolina wrestling (2-0) began its dual portion of the 2024-25 schedule Saturday, collecting wins over Drexel (33-0) and Navy (23-16).
Against the Dragons, Carolina completed the sweep, earning seven decisions and three major decisions. Lachlan McNeil (149), Nicholas Fea (165) and Cade Lautt (197) collected bonus point victories for the Tar Heels.
With the win, Carolina began the season 1-0 for the seventh-straight season, the second-longest streak in program history (1973-74 to 1980-81).
In the nightcap, the Tar Heels collected four bonus point victories, courtesy of Spencer Moore (125), Lachlan McNeil (141), Sonny Santiago (157) and Aydin Guttridge (285).
The Tar Heels begin the home portion of the schedule on Friday, hosting No. 4 Nebraska inside Carmichael Arena.
No. 25 North Carolina 33, Drexel 0
November 9, 2024 | Alumni Hall | Annapolis, Md.
125: No. 26 Spencer Moore (UNC) over Desmond Pleasant (Drexel): 10-5 Dec
133: No. 17 Ethan Oakley (UNC) over Kyler Waterman (Drexel): 8-2 Dec
141: Jayden Scott (UNC) over Jordan Soriano (Drexel): 5-2 Dec
149: No. 6 Lachlan McNeil (UNC) over Dom Findora (Drexel): 14-4 MD … more at … https://goheels.com/news/2024/11/9/wrestling-sweeps-duals-three-collect-open-championships-saturday
Historic House-NCAA settlement leaving hundreds of Olympic sport athletes in peril
On Nov. 13, college athletes across the country can sign financial aid agreements with their chosen university.
While the NCAA eliminated the National Letter of Intent program, signing day remains in place as a seminal moment for college-bound athletes to make their verbal commitments binding. It is traditionally a celebrated day. For some, that’s not the case this year.
Hundreds of college prospects, many of them participating in Olympic sports, are in a precarious position as the signing date approaches. Schools have eliminated roster spots and, for some, scholarship offers that they were once promised. Meanwhile, several dozen current college athletes are being notified that they are no longer part of their teams — some of the notifications arriving after the fall semester even began.
The actions are a result of a significant and overshadowed roster change affiliated with the NCAA’s historic settlement of an antitrust lawsuit (House). While the NCAA and power conferences agreed to expand upon scholarships as part of the settlement, they also imposed roster limits for sports, many of which did not previously exist.
Such a change will result in thousands of lost roster spots for mostly walk-on athletes and those on partial scholarship — a consequence that, while previously reported by Yahoo Sports, has now sparked outrage … more at … https://sports.yahoo.com/historic-house-ncaa-settlement-leaving-hundreds-of-olympic-sport-athletes-in-peril-125238713.html
Breaking down the fireworks, upsets and epic matches from first weekend of college wrestling
College wrestling season is officially back, and the first weekend of the season brought plenty of fireworks, upsets and epic matches. Here are some of the most notable results and takeaways from the opening few days of the year:
Wyoming and Campbell raise the bar for elite college duals
As mentioned in my weekend preview, one of the biggest stories heading into the first weekend of college wrestling was the Wyoming vs. Campbell dual in a rodeo venue. This match delivered.
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Not only did Wyoming and Campbell put forward an incredible evening that highlighted the ‘fun’ of college wrestling, but they also created ten stellar matches, highlighted elite sportsmanship and a vision for what the future of college wrestling could look like. These are two teams pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the sport and making headlines doing it.
From a wrestling standpoint, Stockton O’Brien of Wyoming earned “Wrestler of the Dual” honors for his pin against Campbell’s No. 18 Domenic Zaccone, but the entire dual featured great action. … more at … https://www.ncaa.com/news/wrestling/article/2024-11-04/breaking-down-first-weekend-college-wrestling
Olympics Wrestling PA Announcer finds community, belonging as Voice of the Huskies
Jason Bryant has emerged as one of the top wrestling public address (PA) announcers in the world over the past decade.
The numbers speak for themselves: 25 collegiate wrestling national championship events, seven world championship events and three editions of the Summer Olympics.
So how did an avid wrestling fan end up as the voice of a Division I men’s hockey team?
When longtime PA announcer Chuck Clausen retired in 2022 after 32 years with St. Cloud State University Men’s Hockey, a significant role needed to be filled.
Bryant first saw the job posting on a PA announcing Facebook group. He showed it to his wife Abby, who encouraged him to give it a try. “We opened up a search not knowing where it would go, and a lot of people wanted to be the next voice of the Huskies,” said Andrew Melroe, Assistant Athletics Director for Athletic Communications. “I was surprised and happy when I saw he had applied, I hoped we could make it work … any time I can add to the Husky family, I’m happy to do so.”
Bryant didn’t feel his in-person audition went great, so he was a bit surprised when he was offered the position. Prior to SCSU’s 2022-23 season opener against St. Thomas, he’d only seen one college hockey game live in his life. Did he feel ready to call one in-person?
“I’ve done the Olympics; nothing is more pressure-packed than that,” Bryant said. … more at … https://today.stcloudstate.edu/2024/10/28/olympics-wrestling-pa-announcer-finds-community-belonging-as-voice-of-the-huskies/
Ghadiali to wrestle at NWCA All-Star Classic
BUIES CREEK, N.C. – Campbell heavyweight and All-American Taye Ghadiali has been selected to participate in the 2024 NWCA All-Star Classic on Saturday, November 16, held at Rec Hall on the campus of Penn State.
The event, presented by Nike, will begin at 7:00 p.m. (ET) and can be viewed live on FloWrestling. Ghadiali, who is currently ranked No. 7 on InterMat, will be facing off against No. 3 ranked Nick Feldman from Ohio State. Feldman was named an All-American last year as a redshirt freshman, finishing in fifth place at the NCAA Championships.
Ghadiali becomes the second Campbell wrestler to be selected to take part in the All-Star Classic. Nathan Kraisser (2014-17) became the first to do so during his senior season. He defeated Missouri’s Barlow McGhee in a 3-2 decision. The two Camels are also the only wrestlers to be named NCAA All-Americans in program history.
Taye Ghadiali
“I’m just thankful, and I give all the glory to God. It shows my hard work has been paying off through all the years. Now, it’s not just me who knows who I am, but the whole world is starting to know. I’m just thankful to wrestle and show my talents to the world.”
“My biggest step forward in my wrestling I would say is having faith, … more at … https://gocamels.com/news/2024/11/6/wrestling-ghadiali-to-wrestle-at-nwca-all-star-classic.aspx
#7 Wolfpack Collect Four Falls Against Campbell to Start Dual Action
Bethlehem, Pa. – Seventh-ranked NC State wrestling dominated Campbell by a 44-3 score at Journeymen’s WrangleMania Saturday evening to kick off its dual-match slate for the year. In its first dual-match of the 2024-25 season, NC State wrestling showed off its new lineup Saturday evening against Campbell when four of its 10 bouts ended early from pin falls. NC State got the victory in each of the four ranked match-ups featured at the 141, 157, 174, and 197 classes.
After the first two bouts at 125 and 133, the score leveled out at three a piece, but the Pack wouldn’t give the Camels anymore points from then on. Kai Orine, Ed Scott, Matty Singleton, and Christian Knop each collected falls over their opponents to allow the Pack’s team score to completely break away from Campbell’s. In addition to that, Dylan Fishback earned a technical fall in just the second period.
Coming off of his redshirt year, 24th-ranked Singleton rejoined the lineup at the 174 pound weight class and came out in style, pinning his opponent, 25th-ranked Dom baker in just 24 seconds. The night capped off with No. 10 Isaac Trumble in his first match at heavyweight … more at … https://gopack.com/news/2024/11/9/wrestling-7-wolfpack-collect-four-falls-against-campbell-to-start-dual-action
New & Returning College programs
A 41-Year Wait Ends: NOC Wrestling Reignites Spirit in a Halloween Showdown
Historic? Check! Fun night of wrestling? Check! Large enthusiastic crowd? Check! Perfect evening for NOC Wrestling? Oh, so very close!
After a 41-year break in competition, wrestling made a grand reappearance on the Northern Oklahoma College (NOC) campus on Halloween night, with the men’s team putting up a spirited fight but falling just short in a 23-20 loss to Trinidad State College, CO. NOC’s first ever women’s team made their inaugural dual a memorable one as they turned in a spectacular performance in routing Trinidad by a 48-11 score. In between the women’s and men’s duals, NOC recognized former head coach Bob Zweiacher and the original Maverick wrestling teams. Zweiacher and the wrestlers in attendance were introduced to the appreciative crowd. Current head coach Bryan Kenney presented Zweiacher with a plaque and singlet signed by this year’s team. Included in the past wrestlers in attendance were 2X national champion Karl Lynes and national champion Roger William … more at … https://owrestle.com/a-41-year-wait-ends-noc-wrestling-reignites-spirit-in-a-halloween-showdown/
And …
College wrestling | ‘Jacks have first event since return of the program
Just two years ago there was no collegiate wrestling teams in Humboldt County, on Saturday both of the local colleges had their wrestling teams in action.
It was Cal Poly Humboldt’s first wrestling action since the 1990s when the team faced off against Menlo College for a dual on Friday before competing at the Menlo Invitational tournament on Saturday as the ‘Jacks returned to the collegiate wrestling scene.
Head coach Lennie Zalesky and his team dropped their season-opening dual 38-7 in Atherton on Sunday. The ‘Jacks won two of the 10 matchups with freshman Josh Neiwert and senior Nathan Aguilar getting the wins for Humboldt, both coming by decision.
Neiwart got his win, the first of his collegiate career, in the 133-pound weight class winning 10-5 while Aguilar won 8-2 in the 141-pound weight class. Humboldt briefly held the lead on Friday, as the duals start at the lowest weight class and work their way up, following Aguilar’s win the ‘Jacks 7-5 before Menlo would take the final 33 points in the match.
There was even more action on Saturday, with the ‘Jacks competing in a 12-team tournament with Humboldt seeing a handful of top-six finishers. Freshman Caleb Tatad took sixth-place in his first college tournament at the 125-pound division. Tatad defeated Will VomBaur of Utah Valley by decision before losing to another Utah Valley wrestler, Talen Eck.
Neiwert took third place for the 133-pound class by beating Noah Messman of Menlo College in the third-place match by decision. Aguilar joined Neiwert with a third-place finish at 141 pounds with Aguilar defeating Cal State Bakersfield’s Jaxtyn Frost by decision. … more at … https://www.times-standard.com/2024/11/06/college-wrestling-jacks-have-first-event-since-return-of-the-program/
And …
Doane to Add Greco-Roman Wrestling in Fall 2025
Doane University is expanding their athletic offering with the addition of Greco-Roman Wrestling, which will begin in Fall 2025. The addition will expand on the recent success and growth within the wrestling program at Doane, which currently features two Top 15 NAIA programs in men’s and women’s wrestling. “We are excited to add Greco-Roman Wrestling to our highly successful men’s and women’s wrestling programs,” Director of Athletics Mark Wateska said. “Greco-Roman Wrestling is one of two styles of wrestling in the Olympics and is considered to be one of the most popular styles of wrestling in the world. Doane would be on the forefront of offering this style of wrestling in the U.S. and gives us an opportunity for growth while offering a new and unique program to our students.”
Recent national and international success has developed a relationship with USA Wrestling and with the addition of Greco-Roman Wrestling, Doane’s Director of Wrestling Dana Vote sees the addition as a win-win situation for the university and the growth of the sport. “I look forward to growing our relationship with USA Wrestling as we try to continue to put people on National and World teams,” Vote commented. “Our athletes have displayed they can compete with the best around the world while also achieving academic success.” Over this past summer, Doane’s Tyson Beauperthuy represented Team USA at the Pan-Am Games in June, taking second place in Greco-Roman in the 87kg division. He won the U.S. Championship in late May. Beauperthuy also competed in the World University Games for Beach Wrestling in September, walking away with a gold medal in the 90kg division.
Cristelle Rodriguez won the U20 World Championships in freestyle women’s wrestling in September and is a two-time U20 U.S. Champion. She competed at the Olympic trials in April. The women also had three All-Americans (Top 8) at the U23 U.S. Championships, Ashlee Palimo’o, Aevri Ciha, and Aspen Barber. “Depth is the key, in order to grow the sport of Greco,” … more at … https://www.doaneathletics.com/sports/mwrest/2024-25/releases/20241107nzjkxj
TDR blog
After 20 seasons of publicizing wrestling The TakeDown Report’s (TDR) focus has changed to the collecting of college coaching records from North America since 1903. We will continue to recognize and reward successful wrestlers in eastern North Carolina (east of Raleigh & Fayetteville), assist with schools in starting or re-starting a team and this blog. Join us on our FaceBook Page – “The TakeDown Report” for photos and news. Please send results, stories, links and news to pass along. E-mail us at takedownreport@gmail.com
Martin Fleming, Editor
Takedown Report
