The Iowa State Cyclones wrestling program just got a major boost. Head coach Brent Metcalf announced Wednesday that Drake Ayala—a three-time All-American and two-time NCAA finalist—has been named an assistant coach, pending a background check. Ayala, who competed for the University of Iowa from 2021 to 2026, will fill one of two vacant assistant roles on the Cyclone staff.
"Drake is a great addition to our coaching staff," Metcalf said in a press release. "He just wrapped up an outstanding collegiate wrestling career, and I have no doubt that Drake will be a valuable resource for our lightweight athletes every day in the room. Drake's work ethic and desire to make those around him better make him a perfect fit for our staff."
Ayala’s credentials speak for themselves. As a Hawkeye, he was a four-time NCAA qualifier, posting a career record of 83-26. He finished as the national runner-up in both 2024 and 2025 before taking fifth place in his final season. What sets him apart? Of those 83 wins, 52 came by bonus-point margins—including 31 technical falls, 16 major decisions, and five pins. That kind of dominance is exactly what Iowa State hopes to bring to its lightweight room.
"I am incredibly excited to join the Iowa State staff as an assistant coach," Ayala said. "Coach Metcalf is building something special in Ames, and I'm honored to join the staff and contribute to that vision. I have a great deal of respect for the way this program carries itself on and off the mat, and its values and goals align closely with who I am and where I come from. I'm excited to give my all to help Cyclones chase World, Olympic, and NCAA titles."
Break down his final season: In 2025-26, Ayala went 18-10 with 11 bonus-point wins, finishing third at the Big Ten Championships and fifth at nationals. He also led the Hawkeyes in technical falls that year with seven. After a year of unattached competition in 2022-23, he roared back to reach the NCAA finals in back-to-back seasons (2024 and 2025) with records of 27-5 and 21-3, respectively. He also secured runner-up honors at 133 pounds in the Big Ten in 2025.
As a true freshman in 2021-22, Ayala placed eighth at the Big Ten Championships—a sign of the trajectory that would ultimately lead him to Ames. For Cyclone fans, this hire signals that Metcalf is serious about building a championship culture. And for anyone who loves the sport, it’s a reminder that the best competitors often become the best coaches.