Josh Alexander Launches Ohio University NCWA Wrestling Program

More than 25 student-athletes will take the mat for Ohio University this season, a roster built by one junior who refused to walk away from the sport. ATHENS, Ohio — November 4, 2026 — Per NCWA Online, Ohio University junior Josh Alexander founded a new collegiate wrestling program that will participate in the National Collegiate Wrestling Association (NCWA) throughout the 2026–27 season.

The Roster Cut That Started It All

A marketing major who serves as president of Ohio University’s NCWA wrestling team, Alexander hails from a family with deep athletic ties. His father and two brothers competed in NCAA Division I wrestling, his sister played Division II field hockey, and Alexander himself brings 18 years of wrestling experience. After falling short of a roster spot on Ohio University’s NCAA Division I wrestling team, he faced leaving competitive wrestling behind entirely.

“After not making the roster for Ohio University’s NCAA Division I wrestling team, I had to consider what I wanted my college experience to look like without the sport that had shaped so much of my life,” Alexander explained. “I realized I still wanted to compete and continue my family’s wrestling tradition, even if my path looked different.”

Rallying More Than 25 Athletes

During his sophomore year, Alexander began organizing the new team, quickly attracting more than 25 interested student-athletes from across the university, many with extensive wrestling backgrounds and a shared desire to keep competing at the collegiate level. That enthusiasm pushed him to pursue NCWA membership, opening the door to regional competition and a shot at qualifying for the NCWA National Championships.

Funding the Dream from Scratch

Building the program from the ground up has not been easy, particularly on the financial side. Lacking established funding, Alexander and his teammates sought help from friends, family, and the wrestling community, building a base they hope will benefit Ohio University students for many years ahead.

Alexander Outlines Program’s Broader Ambitions

Beyond fielding a competitive team, Alexander wants the program to bring greater attention and respect to collegiate club wrestling.

“I believe it is often overlooked because it does not receive the same attention or regular viewership as other levels of collegiate wrestling,” Alexander said. “Our athletes bring years of experience, dedication, and competitive drive to the mat.”

The team’s immediate goals are a strong practice environment, academic success, and a competitive culture, with longer-term ambitions of sending wrestlers to the NCWA National Championships and producing All-Americans. For Alexander, though, success will be measured by more than wins and losses: his vision is a lasting wrestling tradition at Ohio University so future students have the same opportunity to keep pursuing the sport.

“We are grateful for the support we have received and for the opportunity to compete this season, represent Ohio University, and continue our wrestling careers,” Alexander said.

The addition of Ohio University reflects the NCWA’s continuing mission to expand collegiate wrestling opportunities and give student-athletes competitive pathways beyond traditional NCAA varsity programs. More information about the association is available at www.ncwa.net.

Worth a look