URGENT UPDATE: The inaugural NCAA Women’s Wrestling National Championships are set to take place on March 6-7, 2024, in Coralville, Iowa, at the Xtream Arena. With a stunning 14-1 dual record this season and over 30 champions crowned in various invitationals, the Iowa Hawkeyes are primed to make history as they compete against 51 other programs for the national title.
During a press conference held earlier today at the Xtream Arena, athletes, coaches, and organizers expressed their excitement for this groundbreaking event, featuring 180 student-athletes from six NCAA Regional Qualifiers. “We’re very, very excited about this event,” said Luke Eustice, Director of the Iowa City Area Sports Commission. “We are pleased, we’re proud, all those adjectives, to host this tournament. We think we’ll do a really good job.”
Among those participating are notable athletes like Kylie Welker of Iowa, who has made waves this season with a perfect record of 17-0 and a first seed at 180 pounds. “I think it’s really special,” Welker stated, reflecting on the significance of this historic tournament. “I’ve been a part of a lot of firsts, and our program has been a first in a lot of different areas.”
The excitement is palpable as ten Hawkeye wrestlers prepare to step onto the mat. Welker will face Genevieve An of Lehigh in her opening match on Friday. “I think my coaches do a really good job of just telling us to be present,” she added. “Whether it’s here, whether it’s at the World Championships, I’m going to take every match just as seriously.”
Head coach Clarissa Chun, who took the helm in November 2021, emphasized the importance of enjoying the moment. “I just really want our women to go out there, enjoy these moments, have fun, and be true to who they are,” Chun said. “It’s a great weekend to celebrate women’s wrestling.”
The first session kicks off at 10 a.m. on Friday, marking a pivotal moment for women’s sports and the Iowa wrestling program. Fans and supporters are encouraged to attend as the athletes aim to etch their names into history. The stakes are high, and the atmosphere promises to be electric as the future of women’s wrestling unfolds on the national stage.
Stay tuned for live updates and results as we witness these remarkable athletes compete for glory in Coralville this weekend!
