About

Program Overview

The Fresno State NCWA Wrestling Team was established in 2013 as part of the National Collegiate Wrestling Association (NCWA). As a competitive club sport within Fresno State’s Club Sports program, we field both men’s and women’s teams that give student-athletes the chance to keep wrestling at the collegiate level while earning their degree.

After Fresno State’s NCAA varsity wrestling program was discontinued following the 2020–21 season, the NCWA team became the main path for Central Valley wrestlers and any student who wants to represent Fresno State in collegiate wrestling.

Our program is fully student- and volunteer-run, with no scholarships or funding from the athletic department. Despite these challenges, we’re dedicated to continuing the Bulldog wrestling tradition through structured training, local and national competition, and a strong, supportive team culture. Our mission is to provide opportunities for men and women to keep competing and growing as wrestlers while keeping the spirit of Bulldog wrestling alive.

Mission & Vision

Mission:
Our mission is to continue building a program that gives students the opportunity to wrestle at the college level while earning their degree at Fresno State. As a non-scholarship program, we are not trying to recruit athletes away from opportunities to have their education fully funded by the sport. Instead, with Fresno State’s affordable tuition and strong academic programs, we aim to provide a financially accessible and competitive option for wrestlers who want to continue wrestling while pursuing their education at Fresno State. The program remains true to its roots by being open to all levels of wrestlers who love the sport, while developing athletes capable of competing on the national stage within the NCWA. We are committed to hosting home events on campus so families and the community can experience Bulldog wrestling firsthand. Our goal is to keep the program flexible and supportive as athletes move through their college years, with graduation as the ultimate achievement.

Vision:
Our vision is for Fresno State NCWA Wrestling to stand as California’s premier NCWA program and a cornerstone for wrestling in the state. Even if NCAA wrestling were ever reinstated at Fresno State, the NCWA program would continue its mission and legacy. We strive to develop championship-level wrestlers, foster a positive and competitive team environment, and prepare our student-athletes for success as graduates and leaders beyond the mat.

What is the NCWA?

The National Collegiate Wrestling Association (NCWA) is the governing body for non-NCAA/NAIA/NJCAA/3C2A college wrestling programs across the United States. It provides men’s and women’s teams with a competitive format that follows NCAA rules and weight classes. Membership in the NCWA allows Fresno State to compete against NCAA, NAIA, NJCAA, and California Community College programs, creating a diverse and challenging schedule. The NCWA also offers a full postseason with conference, regional, and national championships, giving our athletes the chance to compete for national titles.