As Newberry College's wrestling team gears up for the 2025-26 season, head coach Deral Brown has set ambitious goals for his squad.

Brown, a Newberry College Hall of Fame wrestler who has been at the helm of the Wolves' wrestling program for four seasons, is eager to see his team achieve new heights this season.

"One of my goals for the 2025-2026 season is to win a Conference Carolinas and Super Region II Championship team title," said Brown.

"We sent four wrestlers to the NCAA Championships last season. This year, my goal is to send more guys to the tournament and to bring back multiple All-Americans and another NCAA Champion."

With a clear vision in mind, Brown has outlined the key elements his team needs to focus on to achieve these goals.

"We have to stay healthy and live the right lifestyle," Brown emphasized. "We also have to continue working to develop our mindset, which we are actively doing through the Wrestling

Mindset company. I have the team going through a curriculum that I believe is going to pay major dividends for us this year."

Leadership and Unity

As the season approaches, Brown sees leadership from his upperclassmen and seniors as one of the team's biggest strengths.

"They do a phenomenal job at leading by example and holding the younger guys accountable to our program's standards and culture," Brown explained.

"Equally as important, another strength is that we are a close team. This truly feels like a family."

With a challenging schedule ahead that includes matchups against formidable opponents like Lander, Mount Olive, UNC Pembroke, and Belmont Abbey, Brown acknowledges the hurdles his team will face.

But he also expresses confidence in his team's ability to rise to the occasion.

"It's going to be tough," Brown admitted. "I coach an exceptional group of guys though. I believe in this team and the work we are doing. We will be ready."

The Thrill of Competition

One of the aspects Brown is most excited about is the return to competition.
 
"I'm just excited to get back to competition," Brown said. "We had a very productive spring and summer training-wise, but I love to compete and can't wait to get back to it. I'm excited to see our team's growth and improvement from last season."

In terms of leadership within the team, Brown highlights returning NCAA qualifiers Andrew Reed (184lbs), John Parker (197lbs), and Kale Schrader (285lbs).

"The team will look to Andrew, John, and Kale for leadership this season," Brown stated. "They are all returning NCAA qualifiers who have been nationally ranked."

Parker is a two-time Super Region champion and Academic All-American, Reed is also a returning two-time national qualifier and Schrader qualified for nationals last year in his first season at Newberry.

Impact Performers

Brown is also keeping an eye on several newcomers who have the potential to make a significant impact this season.

"Matt Hoeke (157lbs) is a D1 transfer who came in from Rider University," Brown noted. "He's talented and will be one to watch."

Additionally, Brown mentioned Keagan Judd (149lbs), Logan Perkins (165lbs), and Asa Walton (174lbs) as athletes returning from injury who could have a big impact this season.

"They each experienced season-ending injuries last year," Brown explained. "They are back, healthy, and each could have a big impact for us this season as well."

With the new season on the horizon, Coach Deral Brown and the Newberry wrestling team are ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

With strong leadership, a commitment to a healthy lifestyle, and a family-like atmosphere, the Wolves are poised to make their mark in the 2025-26 season.

The Wolves open the season today at the Georgia Open hosted by Emmanuel University.