OTTAWA, Kan. -  A change is on the horizon for the Ottawa University men's and women's wrestling programs. Dalton Weidl, the head women's wrestling coach, will now take over the reins of the OU men's wrestling program and lead both programs.

"After careful consideration and extensive discussions, we have decided to restructure the wrestling programs," said Eaton-Smith. "The Ottawa athletics foundation for success is built on creating a safe and healthy environment for our student-athletes to compete while demonstrating a spirit of excellence and pride on and off the mat. The new model will enable both programs to thrive under Coach Weidl's and his staff's leadership. I am enthusiastic about the future of OU athletics and can't wait to see our student-athletes on the mats this coming season!"

Weidl has been a central figure in the OU women's wrestling team for the past three years. During this time, he has shown exceptional leadership and coaching skills, guiding the team to an 18-18-1 dual record. His knack for nurturing talent is evident in the 31 All-KCAC performers that have blossomed under his coaching. Additionally, his leadership has placed the Braves in the NAIA Women's Wrestling Coaches Poll Top 25 for two consecutive years. Weidl was named KCAC Coach of the Year in 2022-23.

"I am blessed to be given the opportunity to continue to give back to the sport and community that has given me so much throughout my wrestling and coaching career," said Weidl. " I am very excited and confident that our staff is motivated and more than capable of handling the challenges that God has presented us with. The mission stays the same, be really good at wrestling and even better human beings." 

To ensure a smooth transition and continued success in both programs, Weidl will be supported by a team of four assistant coaches. Hunter Wagner will serve as an assistant coach for both the men's and women's teams. Randie Scoon-Amayo and Parker Wright, both graduate assistant coaches, have been named women's and men's wrestling assistant coaches, respectively. Randy Hinderliter will also return for his 10th season to assist both the men's and women's wrestling programs.

In the last six years, the OU's men's wrestling program has consistently delivered impressive performances. The team has earned six KCAC regular-season championships and five KCAC Tournament championships. OU had five NAIA All-Americans, 26 KCAC Individual Champions, two KCAC Wrestlers of the Year, one Gregorian Award winner, and 70 All-KCAC performers. They were ranked as high as eighth in 2023-24 in the NAIA Men's Wrestling Coaches Top 25 Poll.