WEST LIBERTY, W. Va. – West Liberty University is making history with the launch of its first women’s wrestling team, this 2024-25 season, featuring an impressive lineup of 18 female athletes ready to take on the mats. This team, led by coaches Troy Bell and Joseph Lamplot, marks an exciting chapter for WLU as it expands its storied wrestling tradition to include a women’s program.
“I will continue to build upon the solid foundation here at WLU and build a women’s wrestling program that the university and the fan base will be proud of,” said Bell. His vision for the program is clear: to create a competitive and respected women’s wrestling team that mirrors the long-standing success of the men’s side. Bell and Lamplot, both seasoned coaches with deep roots in wrestling, are determined to elevate the team’s performance and foster a supportive environment for the athletes.
Introducing a women’s wrestling team at West Liberty is part of a broader movement within collegiate sports, as the sport continues gaining momentum nationwide. Women’s wrestling is an emerging sport, receiving significant support earlier this year in its journey towards becoming the 91st NCAA championship sport. The NCAA is projected to host the first official Women’s Wrestling Championship in Winter 2026, signaling a new era for the sport.
West Liberty will be one of 23 first-year women’s wrestling programs competing during this season and will join 96 teams vying for a title at the National Collegiate Women’s Wrestling Championships at Xtreme Arena in Coralville, Iowa, on February 21-23, 2025. This event will provide a prominent stage for WLU’s wrestlers to showcase their talent and dedication and an opportunity to measure their progress against established programs.
Introducing a women’s team is not just about competition; it represents a significant cultural shift within wrestling. Women’s wrestling has steadily grown in popularity, with more schools adding teams and young women embracing the sport. West Liberty’s decision to launch a women’s wrestling team reflects a commitment to providing more opportunities for female athletes and supporting the development of women’s sports at the collegiate level.
With a strong foundation laid by its men’s wrestling legacy, West Liberty’s new women’s team is poised to make an impact. As the program develops, the university, coaches, and fans alike are eager to see these pioneering athletes carve out their legacy on the mats. For the 18 women who make up the inaugural team, this season is more than just the start of competition; it’s the beginning of a new tradition at West Liberty University.
