Albright College has announced the addition of men’s and women’s wrestling programs, marking a significant expansion in its athletic offerings. The men’s team will begin competing in the fall of 2025, followed by the women’s team in the fall of 2026. This initiative reflects the college’s commitment to enriching the student experience and meeting evolving student interests.
The decision, approved by Albright’s Board of Trustees, aligns with the college’s mission to integrate academic and athletic achievement. As a Division III school, Albright emphasizes a student-centered approach to sports, focusing on personal and professional development through teamwork, leadership, and perseverance.
“As we work to adapt to the changing needs of students, we recognize that wrestling has once again become the kind of program that reinforces many of the lessons learned in the classroom while creating a sense of belonging for our student-athletes,” said Dr. Debra M. Townsley, Interim President of Albright College. She credited student feedback and Athletic Director Rick Ferry’s leadership for driving the initiative.
Wrestling was previously offered at Albright from 1957 to 2006. The new program aims to build a competitive team at the Division III level. The college will begin a national search for a head coach this week, with the goal of recruiting talented student-athletes and establishing a strong foundation for the program. Additionally, Albright is exploring the development of new facilities to support the teams.
“We are excited to launch this new program on the heels of the announcement of a new STUNT Team at Albright, which is another step in aligning Albright College with the interests and needs of today’s students,” said Athletic Director Rick Ferry. “The new program will allow us to enhance our athletic offerings and respond to the growing demand for more opportunities to compete at a high level.”
Ferry emphasized the life skills students gain through wrestling, describing it as “more than just a sport; it’s a journey of self-discovery and growth.” He added, “We are proud to offer this opportunity as part of our holistic approach to providing students with an education that enables them to live their best lives, both now and in the future.”
The new wrestling teams are part of Albright’s broader vision to support student well-being and success through extracurricular activities. By adding these programs, the college aims to create an inclusive and dynamic environment that fosters both athletic and academic excellence.
“The creation of the wrestling program aligns with Albright’s core values of inclusivity, academic excellence, and community,” the college stated, highlighting its efforts to adapt to student needs and trends in higher education.
With the launch of the wrestling teams, Albright continues its dedication to providing a well-rounded collegiate experience, ensuring students are equipped for success on and off the mat.
