KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Fort Hays State Wrestling was picked third in the 2015-16 MIAA Preseason Coaches Poll, released on Wednesday (Oct. 28). The Tigers tied for third in the voting with Central Oklahoma, each with 15 votes.
Nebraska-Kearney has been selected as the unanimous favorite to win the dual title this year. The Lopers received a maximum amount of 25 points in the poll (since coaches cannot vote for their own team). Last year’s dual champion Lindenwood was selected second with 19 votes, while the Tigers and Bronchos tied in the voting at 15. Fort Hays State took third alone in the conference last year while UCO finished fourth.
The Tigers return three national qualifiers from last year’s squad, which includes Jon Inman, Noah Killip, and Bradley Little. The Tigers had three champions at the MIAA Championships. FHSU placed fifth in Super Regional 4 last year with four national qualifiers. Trey Page was the lone Tiger to reach All-American status last year at heavyweight, placing third nationally with a record of 48-3.
2015-16 MIAA Preseason Coaches Poll
1. Nebraska-Kearney (5) 25
2. Lindenwood 19
T3. Fort Hays State 15
T3. Central Oklahoma (1) 15
5. Central Missouri 11
6. Newman 5