The mats are set, the lights are bright, and championship wrestling returns to Council Bluffs.
For the 11th consecutive year, Iowa Western Community College will host the NJCAA Men’s Division I and Division III Wrestling Championships along with the NJCAA Women’s National Wrestling Invitational on March 6–7 at the Mid-America Center. Over two action-packed days, some of the nation’s top junior college wrestlers will battle for national titles — and fans can expect plenty of intensity from the hometown Reivers.
A Big Stage for the Reivers
Iowa Western enters the national championships with strong momentum and a roster full of talent.
Under first-year head coach Myranda Velazquez, the Reiver women return four All-Americans to the national stage. Among them is Ayana Fletcher, the 2025 national champion at 160 pounds, who moves down to 145 this season. Fletcher captured last year’s title in under two minutes and will be looking to add another national moment to her resume.
Also returning is Rosalia Rubio, who will defend her national championship at 117 pounds after a commanding victory in last year’s finals.
Fellow returners Hailey Medina, Sara Daley, and Paityn Covolo will also play important roles as Iowa Western aims to build on last year’s runner-up finish in the team standings.
A New Era for the Men’s Program
The Iowa Western men’s team enters the championships under first-year head coach Brayden Curry with a lineup that qualified nine wrestlers for the national tournament.
The Reivers return All-American Matteo Nikolov at 174 pounds, while several newcomers will look to make their mark on the national stage. Freshman Tony Palmer arrives with momentum after capturing the 197-pound title at the North Central District Tournament, defeating defending national champion Andrew Marquez of Indian Hills.
With experienced competitors and promising freshmen in the lineup, the Reivers will look to make noise in front of a home crowd.
Championship Wrestling, Right Here in Council Bluffs
The Mid-America Center once again becomes the epicenter of junior college wrestling as athletes from across the country arrive to compete for national titles. Fans can expect high-energy matches, dramatic finishes, and plenty of moments that define championship competition.
And when the final whistle blows for the day, there’s plenty more to enjoy nearby. From casual bites to sit-down favorites, visitors will find plenty of great dining options near the Mid-America Center to keep the energy going between sessions.
Event Details
The NJCAA Wrestling Championships take place Friday, March 6 and Saturday, March 7 at the Mid-America Center.
Ticket Options
Adult Tournament Pass – $65 (two days)
Adult Session Pass – $23 per session
Student Tournament Pass – $45 (two days)
Student Session Pass – $18 per session
Children three and under are free, and parking at the Mid-America Center is free.
Tickets can be purchased online ahead of the event.
Still Considering an Overnight Stay?
Championship wrestling, great food, and plenty to explore nearby make this a perfect excuse for a weekend getaway.
If you're planning to catch the action at the Mid-America Center, consider staying the night and making the most of your visit. Council Bluffs offers comfortable, convenient hotels just minutes from the venue.
