
McKendree Becomes the FIRST to win the NCAA Women’s Wrestling Championships
Writing By Megan Melone
Photography by mckendreeu and McKendree Athletics
Women’s wrestling became a recognized NCAA championship sport in January 2025. The first ever NCAA women’s wrestling championship was held March 6-7 in Coralville, Iowa. And yeah……McKendree won.

Now historical figures, the Bearcats will be forever remembered as the first NCAA women’s wrestling champions.
The final points of the tournament were scored by Yu Sakamoto, who’s victory over North Central secured McKendree’s 5-point lead over the season leader, the University of Iowa. Hawkeyes who?

Not only does McKendree boast an NCAA team championship title, but also three individual champions:



Coach Alexio Garcia won National Tournament Coach of the Year

The Bearcats have much to celebrate with their victorious season and all will be excited to see what comes next for this promising team.