Springfield College Launches Women’s Wrestling as Newest NCAA Varsity Sport

Springfield College in Massachusetts just made a big announcement about its athletic program. Starting July 28, 2026, the college will add women’s wrestling as its 27th NCAA varsity sport.

That means more opportunities for student-athletes and a stronger push for excellence in both athletics and education. Women’s wrestling has exploded in popularity across the country, quickly becoming one of the fastest-growing college sports.

Springfield College’s decision feels like a natural response to the growing interest among female student-athletes. It also fits right in with the college’s broader goals for its athletic program.

Springfield College’s Commitment to Athletic Excellence

Springfield College has a long tradition of success in both sports and academics. Adding women’s wrestling shows the school is serious about offering a variety of options for its athletes.

Dr. Craig Poisson, the Director of Athletics, said the college’s strategic plans back this new move. With girls’ high school wrestling booming nationwide, the timing couldn’t be better.

Why Women’s Wrestling?

This isn’t just a passing fad—women’s wrestling is becoming a real force. The sport has seen huge growth, especially in the last few years.

In January 2025, the NCAA officially named women’s wrestling its 91st championship sport. The first National Collegiate Women’s Wrestling Championship happened in March 2026.

With all that momentum, Springfield College joins a growing group of schools that see real value in women’s wrestling.

Springfield College’s Unique Position

Springfield College is in a great spot to attract young women for its wrestling team. The school leans heavily on its Humanics Philosophy, which shapes everything they do.

This approach helps student-athletes thrive—on the mat, in class, and out in their communities. It’s not just about wins and losses.

The Humanics Philosophy

The Humanics Philosophy is all about developing the whole person: spirit, mind, and body. It’s a big part of the school’s culture and a big reason why athletes are drawn here.

By weaving this philosophy into athletics, Springfield College helps its athletes become well-rounded and ready for whatever comes next.

National and Regional Impact

Springfield College is now the 133rd NCAA school to offer women’s wrestling and the 82nd in Division III. Ten Division I teams and 42 Division II teams have already added the sport.

In Massachusetts, Springfield College becomes just the third school to offer varsity women’s wrestling, joining Western New England University in Springfield and Emmanuel College in Boston. In New England, it’s the fifth program, alongside Maine Maritime, New England College, and Norwich.

Expanding Opportunities

This new team at Springfield College opens real doors for female student-athletes in the region. Varsity programs are still pretty rare, so this gives young women a real shot to compete in college wrestling.

It’s a meaningful step forward for gender equity in college sports and a chance for more athletes to chase their goals.

Looking Ahead

The women’s wrestling team will start competing in the 2027-28 academic year. The college has already started looking for a head coach to lead the program.

If you’re interested in joining, you can fill out the Women’s Wrestling Recruiting Form on the Springfield College Athletics website.

Join the Movement

If you care about women’s wrestling, Springfield College just launched something pretty exciting. Their commitment to excellence, mixed with that Humanics Philosophy they always talk about, really makes it a great spot for student-athletes who want to do well on and off the mat.