Holland Reporter

Grand Valley State University's head wrestling coach, Joey Simcoe, has been named The Open Mat DII Wrestling Coach of the Year. This announcement comes after a successful first year for GVSU's varsity wrestling program, which had been on a 32-year hiatus. Simcoe previously led the Tiffin University wrestling team for 11 seasons before taking on his current role.

Under Simcoe's leadership, GVSU saw significant achievements this season. Josh Kenny claimed the national title in the 174-pound category, while Wyatt Miller achieved All-America honors with an eighth-place finish in the 197-pound category. These accomplishments contributed to GVSU's 13th place finish at the 2024 NCAA Division II Wrestling Championships.

Kenny, who was seeded fourth, made it to the national finals at 174 pounds by winning matches through overtime and technical superiority. In the finals, he pinned Anthony Des Vigne from Central Oklahoma during the second period to become GVSU's first national champion since 1988. Kenny ended his season with a record of 32-5.

Miller made an impressive run as an unseeded competitor by defeating multiple All-Americans and securing his place on the podium at 197 pounds. He notably won his round of 12 match in overtime.

The team also saw Chris Donathan (149) and Seth Konynenbelt (184) qualify for nationals under Simcoe’s guidance. The Lakers finished their dual meet season with a record of 13-7 and placed fourth at the NCAA Super Region 3.