FARMINGTON HILLS, Mich. -- The 2025–26 Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association (MIAA) wrestling season promises to be a thrilling campaign, as preseason voting revealed just how tight the conference race could be.
The preseason coaches poll revealed a close race at the top, with Adrian College edging out defending champion The University of Olivet for the number one ranking. Adrian earned five points and three first-place votes, while Olivet followed close behind with six points and two first-place votes. Albion College, Alma College, and Trine University rounded out the poll, separated by just a handful of points.
1. Adrian College – 5 points (3 first-place votes)
Adrian claims the top spot in the 2025–26 MIAA Wrestling Preseason Poll after finishing third last season with a 2-2 dual-meet record.
The Bulldogs return a talented and veteran group eager to capture the conference title. Senior Adrian Rosas headlines the lineup after going 2-1 at 125 pounds and adding a win at 133 pounds last year. Senior Spencer Vos and junior Connor Williams also return to strengthen the middleweights, each having earned a victory at 174 pounds last season.
2. The University of Olivet – 6 points (2 first-place votes)
The reigning MIAA Champion sits just behind Adrian in the preseason poll. The Comets completed an undefeated 4-0 conference season in 2025 and return a formidable roster under head coach Brandon Brissette, who enters his 17th season after being named the 2025 MIAA Wrestling Coach of the Year.
Junior Juwan Vines, an All-MIAA honoree with a 3-0 record at 165 pounds, returns to lead the team once again. Sophomore Sean Pettigrew picked up a win at 125 pounds last year, while junior Kyan Larson added a victory at 165 pounds. Senior Gideon Loewen and sophomore Jack Ward each recorded wins at 184 pounds, with Loewen also earning a win at 197. Junior Mason Knight anchors the heavyweight class after collecting a win at 285 pounds.
3. Albion College – 10 points
Albion College enters the 2025–26 season ranked third in the preseason poll after finishing second in the conference last year with a 3-1 record.
The Britons return a deep and experienced lineup capable of competing with any team in the league. Senior Cade Odrobina went 2-2 at 133 pounds last year, while junior Koen Eberhard notched a win at 141 pounds. Junior Justin Gorman was one of the team’s most consistent performers with a 3-1 record at 157 pounds, and senior Peyton Brooks returns after securing a win at 165. Junior Owen Turnbow went 2-0 at 174 pounds, and senior Gary Iobe provides versatility after earning wins at both 184 and 197 pounds.
4. Alma College – 14 points
Alma College is picked fourth in the preseason rankings as the Scots aim to rebound from an 0-4 conference campaign in 2025.
The team returns a number of seasoned wrestlers with valuable dual-meet experience. Junior Jushawn Ferrel Jr. went 2-2 at 125 pounds, while classmate Luke Martin showcased versatility with wins at both 174 and 197 pounds. Senior Eddie Williams also returns after earning a victory at 184.
5. Trine University – 15 points
Trine University rounds out the preseason poll in fifth place after finishing fourth last year with a 1-3 conference record.
The Thunder return a veteran squad led by senior Ben Edwards, who earned a win at 133 pounds, and senior Tommy Miller, who posted a 3-1 record at 141. Sophomore Christopher Briner returns after a win at 149 pounds, while senior Lakin Webb adds experience at 157. Senior Gavin Malone brings leadership to the upper weights after securing a win at 184 pounds.
Up Ahead
The 2025–26 MIAA wrestling season officially begins the week of January 12 and is expected to deliver intense matchups and championship-level competition. Competition will continue at the NCAA Division III Regionals February 27 through March 1, with hopes of representing the MIAA at the NCAA Division III Wrestling Championships March 13–14.