In a season that will be remembered as one of the greatest in program history, Roanoke College's head wrestling coach Nate Yetzer has been named the NCAA Division III Coach of the Year by Open Mat. This prestigious honor caps off a remarkable campaign where Yetzer guided the Maroons to unprecedented heights on the national stage.
Under Yetzer's leadership, Roanoke finished the season as the nation's top dual meet team, boasting an unblemished 15-0 record. The Maroons made history by capturing their first-ever national duals title with a dominant 4-0 performance in Cedar Falls, Iowa—a feat that showcased the team's depth and resilience throughout the postseason.
The success didn't stop there. Roanoke secured its fourth consecutive ODAC wrestling championship, further cementing their conference dominance. The Maroons also became the first ODAC team to win a regional title since 1953, breaking a 73-year drought that highlights the program's remarkable turnaround under Yetzer's guidance.
The season culminated at the NCAA Division III wrestling championships in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, where Roanoke achieved a program-best sixth-place finish. This performance not only exceeded expectations but also set a new standard for excellence in Maroons wrestling history.
For fans of the sport, this recognition places Yetzer among the elite coaches in Division III, and his ability to build a championship culture at Roanoke serves as an inspiration for wrestling programs across the country. Whether you're a seasoned wrestler or a newcomer to the sport, this is a story of dedication, teamwork, and the pursuit of greatness—qualities that resonate both on and off the mat.
