Fort Hays State wrestling has been tabbed third in the MIAA Preseason Wrestling Coaches Poll, released on Thursday, October 25. Nebraska-Kearney is picked to win the conference dual schedule, with Central Oklahoma close behind.

Nebraska-Kearney is the defending national champion in NCAA Division II. The Lopers make the jump with the Tigers from the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference this year in wrestling. FHSU wrestling was the only sport remaining last year that was not yet affiliated with the MIAA. With the additions of Nebraska-Kearney, Central Oklahoma, and Lindenwood, the MIAA now has six schools with wrestling and will have it as a championship sport this year.

Nebraska-Kearney received four of the six first place votes by the coaches, while Central Oklahoma received the other two. UNK, UCO and FHSU have all been staples in the national rankings for wrestling for several years. UNK had three individual national champions last year to go with its team title, UCO had three wrestlers with top-five finishes at nationals last year, and FHSU had six individuals qualify for nationals last year.

– FHSU Sports Information –

Below is the preseason coaches poll…

2012-13 MIAA Preseason Coaches Poll
1. Nebraska-Kearney (4) 24
2. Central Oklahoma (2) 22
3. Fort Hays State 16
4. Lindenwood 14
5. Central Missouri 9
6. Truman 5