Manheim, PA – The National Wrestling Coaches Association (NWCA) has announced Jake Short of Grand Valley State University as the recipient of the NCAA Women's National Coach of the Year award. The announcement comes ahead of the NCWWC Championships in Coralville, IA. This prestigious honor, presented by Defense Soap—the official hygiene partner of the NWCA—is selected by coaching peers and recognizes outstanding leadership and success both on the mat and within the campus community.
In its inaugural season, Grand Valley State posted a remarkable 7-2 dual meet record and maintained a top-five national ranking throughout the year. Under Short's leadership, the Lakers qualified 11 wrestlers for the NCWWC Tournament and built a strong foundation with 22 women on the roster.
Regional Finalists
The NWCA also recognizes outstanding coaching achievements at the regional level. This year's regional winners and top regional finishers are:
Region I
- Coach of the Year: Tyler Keane, Western New England University
- Region Champion: Cody Griswold, Elmira College
Region II
- Coach of the Year: Joseph Jamison, Ursinus College
- Region Champion: Matt Lackey, Lock Haven University
Region III
- Coach of the Year: Brian Vutianitis, Presbyterian College
- Region Runner-Up: Bryce Killian, Emmanuel University
Region IV
- Coach of the Year: Breonnah Neal, Frostburg University
- Region Champion: Erin Vandiver, Gannon University
Region V
- Coach of the Year: Jake Short, Grand Valley State University
- Region Champion: Joe Norton, North Central College
Region VI
- Coach of the Year: Alexio Garcia, McKendree University
- Region Runner-Up: Frank Yattoni, Lindenwood University
Region VII
- Coach of the Year: Brady Kyner, Wartburg College
- Region Champion: Clarissa Chun, University of Iowa
Region VIII
- Coach of the Year: Tarkyia Mensah, Schreiner University
- Region Champion: Travis Mercado, Colorado Mesa University
The NWCA congratulates all honorees for their dedication and contributions to the growth of women's wrestling.
