Hawkeyes! Thanks for checking in again for our monthly newsletter. Your engagement through our website, these emails, and our social media channels means a lot to us. These consistent touchpoints help us grow our fan base and keep you—the most knowledgeable fans in the country—up to date!
Your unwavering dedication to our team is felt, even in the sting of a tough loss. Wrestling is unpredictable, and just a few exchanges can change the outcome of a bout—or an entire dual. That was certainly the case in last Sunday’s matchup against our in-state rival, Iowa State. Our Hawks fell to ISU 20–14 for the first time in 20 years. The tight duel came down to the final match, with the Cyclones ultimately prevailing.
Our team has an unyielding dedication to being the very best for you—the best fanbase in the country! And as Tom Brands said in his post-match interview, we’re not defined by that duel and our team’s character will prevail. ONWARD!
Austin DeSanto is the 2025 Bill Farrell Memorial International tournament Champion at 61kg! Austin out scored his four opponents 32-1, beating two world medalists en route to his first Bill Farrell title. The two world medalists once won world medals for Mongolia, Bekhbayar Erdenebat (2x bronze), Tuvshintulga Tumenbileg (bronze).
Jesse Ybarra went 0-2 and Steven Buchanan did not make the trip due to illness.
If you’ve never been to the Farrell, I highly recommend attending this event in coming years. It’s a short one day event, and features world-class athletes in a small gymnasium setting — three mats stretched from wall-to-wall and folding chairs inches from the mat… it’s incredible! Plus you’re in Manhattan, across the street from Central Park.
Spencer Lee just wrestled in the RAF 03 card last Saturday in Chicago. He took on World Bronze Medalist Andriy Yatsenko of Ukraine. Spencer led the entire match, racking up a 9-4 lead. With just under 30 seconds remaining, Yatsenko tried a last ditch throw and got it—Yatsenko secured the fall with no time left on the clock to win the match. Tough way to lose after dominating for 5 and half minutes—no doubt!
The LA Olympic Games Commission just released their full event schedule and wrestling will be from Monday, July 24 through Sunday, July 30, 2028. Men’s freestyle will follow the same format as the 2024 Paris Games with two day tournaments for each weight class, spread across 4 days. Competition starts on July 27th and ends on the final day of the Games on July 30th. Full LA Olympic Games Event Schedule here!
Thursday, July 27 — 57kg & 86kg Prelims
Friday, July 28 — 74kg & 125kg Prelims // 57kg & 86kg Medal Matches
Saturday, July 29 — 65kg & 97kg Prelims // 74kg & 125kg Medal Matches
Sunday, July 30 — 65kg & 97kg Medal Matches
We want to thank everyone that donated yesterday on Giving Tuesday! Thank you for joining the global movement that inspires hundreds of millions of people to give, collaborate, and celebrate generosity. Because of your generosity, we can feel the Hawkeye Nation behind us and are that much closer to reaching our goals! If you miss it, you can still give to this campaign by following this Give Link!
Make sure to also check out our online store for all your Hawkeye Wrestling holiday shopping!! We have a bit of everything! Orders typically arrive within 2-3 business days.
This year marks our 20th Arctic Plunge!! This year’s event will be immediately following the Penn State Dual on Friday, January 16, 2026 at Brown Deer Golf Course. Sign up to jump or donate to your favorite jumper today! Take a look back at last year’s jump!!!
Come pre-game with us at one of our Pre-Match Socials! Our goal is to create an atmosphere where our community can grow and enjoy Hawkeye Wrestling together. Our social events are open to the public and free of charge! Guests can win raffle prizes, meet Hawkeye legends, and enjoy drink specials before each-and-every home dual this season!
Pre-Match Socials | Before Every Home Dual — Area Bars & Restaurants — Scheduled!
2026 Arctic Plunge | Friday, January 16 — Brown Deer Golf Course — Open Now!
Annual Banquet | Saturday, May 2 — Hyatt Regency – Coralville, IA — Save The Date
Riverside Golf Outing | Monday, June 29 — Blue Top Ridge Golf Course — Save The Date
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