Mitchell, S.D. -- The Dakota Wesleyan Tigers women's wrestling team has officially entered the GPAC preseason polls, securing a 5th place ranking with 45 votes in their first year as an offical conference sport. The womens program has seen lots of growth since it began, expanding from a single athlete in 2022 to a solid roster of currently 10.
Coach John Lynch shared his thoughts on the first offical GPAC season, "I am looking forward to competing under the GPAC banner. This is an important step for women's wrestling growth," he said. As for his teams preseason poll placement he beleives that they can climb higher than what's perdicted, "We are capable of changing our position in the polls throughout the season and I think we will surprise some people this year."
The GPAC preseason rankings show a competitive field, with Hastings and Doane tied for first place, both earning 200 points. Midland is in third with 183 points, followed by Waldorf with 177 points. Dakota Wesleyan's ranking is a solid start for a new program.
GPAC Preseason Poll Breakdown:
RANK SCHOOL POINTS
1t. Hastings 200
1t. Doane 200
3. Midland 183
4. Waldorf 177
5. Dakota Wesleyan 45
6. Morningside 18
The poll, compiled by the NAIA, was voted upon by a panel of head coaches representing each conference.
In addition to team rankings, several Dakota Wesleyan wrestlers have made an impact in individual weight class rankings. Keera Lacock is 5th in the 124-pound category, Mady Sargent is 6th at 131 pounds, Jayden Lange is 4th at 138 pounds, and Olivia Smith is 6th in the 160-pound class.
As the season begins, the Tigers are ready to compete and aim to build on their strong start, with hopes of improving their ranking in the GPAC.