NICC wrestling launching in fall 2026

The state of Iowa is widely known for its strong wrestling programs, with names like Spencer Lee, Tom Brands, Dan Gable and Cael Sanderson shaping this reputation. Northeast Iowa Community College (NICC) is joining in this tradition and is adding a club wrestling program starting in the fall semester.

This will be a non-sanctioned, club sport, which means wrestlers will not compete in NJCAA postseason events. However, other national club wrestling championships are an option. As a club sport, the program is open to both men and women.

"We believe the addition of a wrestling program will improve enrollment numbers and offerings for students," Athletic Director Nick Weinmeister said. "I think the popularity of the sport of wrestling in the state speaks for itself, but the growing popularity of women's wrestling across the country is something we valued as a great impact."

Wil Kelly will lead the team as head coach. Kelly, a Dubuque native, is a two-time All-American wrestler for Wartburg College, where he won a national championship his senior season with the Knights. Following his collegiate career, Kelly served as an assistant at Wartburg for three years before taking the head coaching position at Cedar Falls High School. Most recently, he's been an assistant coach with the University of Dubuque (UD) wrestling program.

"The opportunity to help launch a new wrestling program is always exciting," Kelly said. "As an advocate for the sport, I see tremendous potential at NICC. The administration has been outstanding to work with, and I'm highly motivated to build something special here."

Kelly's successful history with the sport, both as a coach and student-athlete, makes him well-qualified to lead the Cougars in year one of their program.

"Our first year will be centered on development," Kelly said. "We'll focus on building a strong roster and gaining valuable experience so our athletes are prepared to compete."

Although the recruiting window is narrow for the inaugural season, Kelly is confident the roster will be full by the time August classes begin.

"We are focused on bringing in student-athletes who align with our vision, individuals who are committed to excelling in the classroom while competing for both individual and team championships," Kelly said.

This is the NICC Athletic Department's first new program since the launch of athletics in August of 2024. Wrestling consistently topped the list of sports requested by community members.

"I get asked weekly, 'what's next?'," Weinmeister said. "People have brought up wrestling in multiple conversations since our announcement of expanding athletics back in 2024, and deciding on the timing of club wrestling now fits because of the relationship that Jon McGovern (UD's head wrestling coach), Wil and I have created to make the vision become a reality. Decisions are calculated for what is in the best interest of the College, athletics and our students. I felt this was a venture that we'd see some immediate return."

The Cougars' first official season will take place in fall 2026, and Coach Kelly is ready to fill his roster.

Any wrestlers interested in being recruited can email Coach Kelly at wjkelly99@hotmail.com.