JT1Wrestle Takes A Look At Iowa Western 2026-2027

 

The state of Iowa produces great wrestling at every level.  We may only have one DII program, but it's always competitive.  Iowa, Iowa State & Northern Iowa are always producing great talent & great results in NCAA DI.  We have a phenomenal presence at the NCAA DIII level & a very respectable spot at the table in the NAIA. Yet you know where the Finch is truly Golden? NJCAA.  It's technically called the "North Central District" or to confuse the Hell out of everyone some also refer to it as Region XI. Many though affectionally vaunt, "The Iowa Jucos."  And argue with me all you want, I say it is the toughest of all the qualifiers in NJCAA wrestling. 

One of the teams in the North Central District is Iowa Western. A dominant program right on the very western edge of Iowa, bordering Nebraska. The Reivers sent 9 of their 10 starters to the NJCAA championships, putting five of them on the award stand.  Three of those All-Americans return, including a national champion. All in all, 5 returning qualifiers. 

No word on 8th in the NJCAA nation Noah Jones yet. Nothing on Braxton Preacher.  Matteo Nikolov, a two-time NJCAA All-American with 8th & 6th place finishes is a native of Katy, Texas. A 3 1/2 hour drive from Kerrville, Texas.  Not sure if their would be any interest either way, but on a personal note would love to see him continuing his success at Schreiner.  No word on Kolby Scott either. 

133
Isaac Eckdahl

When you're that close to Omaha, you might as well take advantage right? The Reivers picked up a good one in Isaac Eckdahl, who finished 3rd at last year's North Central District. 

141
Hudson Palmer

A talent out of Utah, Hudson Palmer was bronze at the North Central District, capturing 7th at the NJCAA championships. 

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Logan Crowther

Another Utah talent, Logan Crowther was silver at the North Central District, as he also captured 7th place NJCAA All-American honors. 

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Cal Wells

Another Nebraska native, Cal Wells was 4th at the North Central District. 

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Tony Palmer

Continuing to dip into the pool of talent West of the border, Tony Palmer was the star of the Reiver wrestling program last season, winning gold at both the North Central District & the NJCAA championships.