Last year’s fifth-place NCAA Division II national tournament finish was not up to Central Oklahoma’s lofty standards and the Bronchos are eager to prove that in 2025-26.
UCO has back 15 individuals with starting experience, led by a pair of returning All-Americans and two past national placers. Add in a host of other lettermen along with a talented group of newcomers and it’s obvious the Bronchos will be a prime national contender despite their No. 11 preseason ranking.
“The expectation here is always to win the national championship, so going into Saturday night last year without a chance was disappointing,” said 10th-year head coach Todd Steidley, who has led UCO to an 114-13 dual record and two national titles. “I feel like that’s really motivated our team. They’re not okay with finishing fifth in the country.
“Our guys are upbeat and confident and we’re excited about the season.”
Leading the Bronchos once again is two-time 157-pound national champion Gabe Johnson, who continues to improve behind a determined work ethic.
UCO also has back two-time All-American Garrett Wells along with past All-Americans Dylan Lucas and Hunter Jump. Wells is moving from 184 to 197 and Jump is going from 165 to 174, while Lucas will be back at 141 and all three are capable of contending for a national title.
The Bronchos will have new starters at several weights, but several of those have seen time in the lineup during their careers and have plenty of experience.
“Every starter will have a chance to be a national qualifier and do well,” Steidley said. “There’s a lot of competition to be a starter and that competition in the room has helped guys improve.
“We have a lot of talent in the room and our depth is good at pretty much every weight.”
So all signs point to the Bronchos making another spirited run at the national championship next March, though a rugged schedule will certainly pose a challenge.
UCO will face six teams ranked in the preseason top 25 during the regular season along with participating in the NWCA Division II National Duals and the prestigious Midwest Classic. And the Bronchos also tangle with Division I Little Rock on opening day.
“Our schedule is tough, but I think it’s going to help us,” Steidley said. “It has motivated our guys and it will be good for us in the long run. I’m excited about this team and feel like we can be as good as anybody.”
Here’s a weight-by-weight look at the Bronchos.
125 Pounds: UCO needs to replace a two-time national qualifier here and there are plenty of contenders for the job.
Junior Guy Clevenger is the leading candidate, having seen extensive starting duty the past two years while amassing a 37-10 record. He’s wrestled plenty of big matches and is eager to be the main man.
Sophomore Eli Kirk will also be in the hunt and is capable of doing big things. He’s dropping down from 133 after going 20-4 with 16 bonus-point wins as a part-time starter there last year.
