Women's Wrestling FAQs
Why is Columbia adding women's wrestling?
Women's wrestling is one of the fastest-growing sports in the United States at both the high school and collegiate levels. The NCAA officially recognized women's wrestling as its 91st championship sport in 2025, and more than 100 NCAA institutions currently sponsor varsity programs.
Columbia's addition of women's wrestling reflects the University's commitment to expanding opportunities for elite student-athletes while building upon one of the richest wrestling traditions in the nation. Columbia will become the first Ivy League institution to sponsor women's wrestling at the varsity level.
When will Columbia Women's Wrestling begin competition?
The Lions will officially begin varsity competition during the 2027-28 academic year. Columbia's club program will continue to operate during the 2026-27 season.
Who will lead the program?
Emma Randall has been named the inaugural head coach of Columbia Women's Wrestling and will officially begin her role on July 1, 2026.
Randall currently serves as head coach of the Columbia Women's Wrestling Club and the New York City Regional Training Center women's freestyle program. She previously served as a USA Wrestling Women's Freestyle National Team coach and was part of Team USA's coaching staff at the 2016 Olympic Games.
Where will the team train and compete?
Columbia Women's Wrestling will utilize the wrestling room in the Dodge Physical Fitness Center and compete in Levien Gymnasium.
How many student-athletes will be on the roster?
The 2027-28 roster will be determined by the coaching staff and in accordance with institutional guidelines as the program prepares for varsity competition.
What style of wrestling will Columbia compete in?
Women's collegiate wrestling competes under freestyle wrestling rules, the same international and Olympic style used worldwide. There will be 10 weight classes, and each match will feature two 3:00 rounds with a 30-second break between rounds.
What facilities and support resources will student-athletes receive?
Women's wrestling student-athletes will have access to Columbia Athletics' comprehensive support services, including strength and conditioning, sports medicine, academic support, nutrition resources, leadership development and mental performance services.
How has the sport grown nationally?
Women's wrestling has experienced dramatic growth over the past decade. The NCAA identified women's wrestling as an emerging sport in 2020 before officially sanctioning a national championship in 2025. The inaugural NCAA Women's Wrestling Championship was held in 2026.
At the Division I level, a growing number of institutions have added varsity women's wrestling in recent years, including programs from major conferences across the country. Iowa State, Kent State and Mercyhurst are among the schools that have recently announced additions to the sport. Currently, all NCAA divisions compete against one another.
Who can prospective student-athletes contact for more information?
Recruiting questionnaire coming soon.
