Concordia University Wisconsin becomes fourth NCAA DIII women’s wrestling program in the state

MEQUON W.I., – – The business of adding collegiate women’s wrestling programs is booming. Earlier today Concordia University Wisconsin Director of Athletics Dr. Rob Barnhill announced plans to add women’s wrestling as a varsity sport for the 2020-21 season.

“Girls wrestling in high school is one of the fastest-growing sport activities in the United States and we want to be an option for young women that want a first-class Christian education and pursue their sport of choice,” Barnhill said. “There are dozens of colleges and universities across the country that have made the decision to begin women’s programs and we are excited to join them.”

Barhill’s statement is not amiss. The 2018-19 National Federation of High School Athletics survey showed a 250% growth in participation for girls wrestling over the last decade.

CWU’s location situates them well for competition; Mequon is within two hours of four different NCAA Division III women’s wrestling programs. Neighboring programs include Lakeland University, Carthage College, UW-Stevens Point and North Central College. Compared to the hours most women’s teams have driven for competition in the past, two hours is equivalent to the blink of an eye.

The Falcons have a year to prepare and build a roster, meaning that a national search for head coach is underway.

Access the full press release, here.