Minnesota State University Athletics Kicks Off 2025-26 Wrestling Season

Strategic Insights -

Minnesota State University athletics has announced the commencement of its 2025-26 wrestling season, beginning with the Pointer Open at Shirley Egner Court in Berg Gym, Stevens Point, Wisconsin, on November 1. This marks the 33rd season for head coach Jim Makovsky, who will lead an experienced team featuring three wrestlers who competed at the NCAA Division II Championships in March.

The Mavericks boast an experienced group, including senior Drake Hayward, who was an All-American at 174 pounds, with 32 wins last season. Hayward finished third at the NCAA Super Region V Tournament and placed third at the NCAA Championships. Sophomore Colton Hush was named NSIC Rookie of the Year as a true freshman, finishing with 25-11 overall and placing third at the NCAA Super Region V Tournament. Senior Caleb Meunier also competed at 157 pounds last season, finishing as an All-American with a 32-9 overall record. This year's squad consists of 24 wrestlers, with four seniors, six juniors, 13 sophomores, four redshirt freshmen, and three true freshmen. The team is projected to place fourth in the 2025-26 NSIC Preseason Coaches' Poll, behind St. Cloud State, Augustana, and Parkside.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Minnesota State University wrestling team begins its 2025-26 campaign at the Pointer Open in Stevens Point, Wisconsin, on November 1, marking the 33rd season for head coach Jim Makovsky.
  • Senior Drake Hayward is an All-American at 174 pounds, with 32 wins last season, and placed third at the NCAA Championships.
  • Sophomore Colton Hush was named NSIC Rookie of the Year as a true freshman, with a 25-11 overall record and a third-place finish at the NCAA Super Region V Tournament.
  • Senior Caleb Meunier finished as an All-American at 157 pounds last season, with a 32-9 overall record.
  • The team is made up of 24 wrestlers, including four seniors, six juniors, 13 sophomores, four redshirt freshmen, and three true freshmen.

Statistics:

  • The Mavericks begin their dual matches on December 5 at Sioux Falls.
  • The team is projected to place fourth in the 2025-26 NSIC Preseason Coaches' Poll.
  • St. Cloud State is projected as the top team in the 2025-26 NSIC Preseason Coaches' Poll.
  • Eight wrestlers return from last season's team.

Sources:

  • Minnesota State University Athletics news release.