The Briar Cliff University wrestling team has been ranked No. 3 in the 2026 preseason Great Plains Athletic Conference (GPAC) wrestling rankings, while 10 Chargers earned individual recognition across six weight classes.

Leading the way for the Chargers is Jeremiah Bethel, who earned the No. 1 ranking at 184 pounds. Dariuz Black follows with a No. 2 ranking at 133 pounds, while Tyden Schultz sits at No. 3 at 141 pounds. Jackson Balmer also earned a top five ranking, coming in at No. 4 at 165 pounds.

Briar Cliff's remaining ranked wrestlers include Parker Leverknight at No. 6 at 125 pounds, Tyler Fouts at No. 5 and Jeremiah Louis at No. 6 at 149 pounds, Erik Lessears at No. 6 at 165 pounds, Ethan Gregg at No. 6 at 174 pounds and Graison Kelley at No. 6 at 184 pounds.

The preseason rankings reflect the strength and depth of the Chargers' lineup heading into the 2026-27 season, with multiple wrestlers positioned to compete among the conference's top contenders.

"It's always a good feeling to be recognized by your peers for the work you've put in, but at the end of the day feelings and rankings don't win matches. We have to go out every competition and earn what we want," said the Briar Cliff wrestling coach. "I'm highly excited and am looking forward to everything this season will present us, the successes and the challenges" said Head Coach Donaco Watts

Briar Cliff opens its season with the Blue/Gold Wrestle-Off Dual on Thursday, Oct. 22, at 7:30 p.m. inside the Newman Flanagan Center.

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2026-27 Men's Wrestling Conference Ratings
1  Doane University                     199
2  Morningside (Iowa)                  159
3  Briar Cliff (Iowa)                       129
4  Dakota Wesleyan (S.D.)          111
5  Hastings (Neb.)                        76
6  Waldorf (Iowa)                          64
7  Concordia (Neb.)                      60
8  Northwestern (Iowa)                 56
9  Midland (Neb.)                          36