PARK CITY, Kansas (LourdesAthletics.com) --Â The Lourdes University men's wrestling team continues its tradition of excellence, qualifying three wrestlers for the 2025 NAIA National Championships. This marks the ninth consecutive year under head coach
Dock Kelly III that the Gray Wolves have sent athletes to the national stage, bringing the total to 33 national qualifiers during his tenure, following the five in the previous season.
At the Wolverine-Hoosier Athletic Conference (WHAC) Championships on February 15, 2025, Will Speight and Carter Kroll each secured individual titles, while Cole McKinley earned a runner-up finish, ensuring their spots at the national tournament.
Will Speight (184 lbs.), a graduate student from Bedford, Ohio, was named WHAC Wrestler of the Year following an outstanding season. He dominated his bracket at the conference championships, winning both matches by technical fall, including a 20-5 victory in the championship bout. Speight leads the Gray Wolves with a 23-1 record this season, including 10 technical falls.Â
Carter Kroll (197 lbs.), a senior from Sylvania, Ohio, also claimed a WHAC title, pinning both of his opponents en route to the championship. Kroll has been a consistent performer for Lourdes, showcasing his skills throughout the season.Â
Cole McKinley (141 lbs.), a junior from Perrysburg, Ohio, finished as the runner-up at the WHAC Championships, securing his national qualification. McKinley has demonstrated resilience and determination, contributing significantly to the team's success.Â
The 68th Annual NAIA Men's Wrestling National Championships are scheduled for March 6-8, 2025, at Park City Arena in Park City, Kansas. All matches from Sessions I through V will be streamed live via FloWrestling, with championship bouts airing on the NAIA Network and the Urban Edge Network.
For more information and updates, visit LourdesAthletics.com.Â