Release from Rose State College
A new era of Raider Wrestling is underway as Jason Powell joins Rose State College as the Head Coach for both the men’s and women’s programs.
With over 15 years of coaching experience and a distinguished wrestling career, Powell brings exceptional expertise, vision, and leadership to Rose State. His arrival brings new momentum as he works to reestablish the College’s storied men’s wrestling program while also launching the first-ever women’s wrestling team.
Powell’s coaching career began at his alma mater, the University of Nebraska, where he served as a volunteer assistant and played a key role in daily training and recruiting efforts, helping secure a top-10 recruiting class for the Huskers. He then spent two seasons as an assistant coach at the University of Oregon before joining the University of Maryland wrestling staff in 2008.
He later returned to Nebraska, completing two seasons as an assistant coach after spending six years as the team’s strength and conditioning coach. During his tenure, the Huskers compiled a 95–39 dual record, produced 19 All-Americans, and earned three consecutive top-10 finishes at the NCAA Championships.
Before launching his coaching career, Powell was one of the most accomplished wrestlers in Nebraska history. He was a three-time All-American, captured the 2004 NCAA national championship at 125 pounds with a dominant technical fall, and finished his collegiate career with 109 wins, ranking 13th on the school’s all-time list. A four-year letterman and two-year team captain, he placed fourth at the US Nationals in freestyle.
An Oklahoma native, Powell graduated from Choctaw High School before attending the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in sociology.
Recognized for building programs founded on grit, discipline, and excellence, Powell’s coaching philosophy aligns seamlessly with the values of Raider Athletics. His experience at the highest levels of collegiate wrestling positions him to shape a robust and competitive future for both Rose State programs.
“Coach Powell’s experience and intensity make him the ideal leader to build something extraordinary here,” said Rose State College Executive Director of Athletics Coty Cooper. “We are thrilled to see the future of Raider Wrestling under his direction.”
Outside the arena, Powell is a dedicated family man supported by his wife, Hannah, and their four-year-old daughter, Aubree. An avid outdoorsman, he enjoys hunting and fishing, activities that help him stay grounded and balanced.
