Michigan has long been a powerhouse in collegiate wrestling, with programs that push athletes to compete at the highest levels. But when it comes to finding the best fit for your future, both on the mat and in the classroom, The University of Olivet is a strong contender. Let’s break down what wrestling opportunities exist in the state and why we believe we’re the best wrestling university in Michigan.
Wrestling Universities in Michigan
Michigan’s deep-rooted wrestling culture means there’s no shortage of schools where athletes can pursue their goals. From nationally recognized Division I programs to smaller colleges that prioritize personal growth, Michigan’s collegiate wrestling scene is as competitive as it is diverse.
Nearly every region of the state is home to a university or college that fields a wrestling team. The wide range of wrestling colleges in Michigan reflects the state’s strong commitment to the sport of wrestling. However, not all programs offer the same experience. Some are geared toward high-volume recruiting and performance metrics, while others focus on fostering a more well-rounded and personalized journey.
At The University of Olivet, we believe student-athletes deserve both high-level competition as well as meaningful academic and personal support. Our program is built on a foundation of coaching excellence, proven results, and a culture that genuinely cares about each athlete’s future.
What College Wrestling Teams Are There in Michigan?
Michigan is home to a large number of college wrestling teams that compete across multiple divisions. Here’s a quick overview:
Division I
- Michigan Wolverines Wrestling (University of Michigan)
- Michigan State Spartans Wrestling (Michigan State University)
Division II
- Grand Valley State Lakers Wrestling (Grand Valley State University)
- Davenport Panthers Wrestling (Davenport University)
NAIA
- Cornerstone Golden Eagles Wrestling (Cornerstone University)
- Rochester Warriors Wrestling (Rochester University)
- Cleary Cougars Wrestling (Cleary University)
- UM-Dearborn Wolverines Wrestling (University of Michigan–Dearborn)
Division III
- Olivet Comets Wrestling (The University of Olivet)
- Adrian Bulldogs Wrestling (Adrian College)
- Alma Scots Wrestling (Alma College)
As a Division III school, The University of Olivet focuses on developing well-rounded student-athletes without compromising on training quality or championship ambition.
Which University Is Best for Wrestling?
Determining the best wrestling program in Michigan takes more than glancing at win-loss records or the division level they compete in. It’s about finding a school that consistently supports and develops its athletes, on and off the mat.
A top program will have experienced coaching staff that is invested in each wrestler’s progress, not just the team’s overall performance. It should offer access to high-quality training facilities where athletes can sharpen their skills year-round, along with a proven record of team and individual success at the conference and national levels.
Just as important is the level of academic and personal support available. The best programs understand that student-athletes are students first, and they provide the resources needed to help them thrive in the classroom while maintaining their competitive edge.
By these standards, The University of Olivet rises to the top in Michigan. With a championship-winning team, standout coaching, and a campus culture focused on personal growth, The University of Olivet offers the kind of well-rounded experience that sets student-athletes up for success both during college and long after graduation.
Why We’re the Best Wrestling College In Michigan
We’re not just proud of our wrestling program. We’re proud of the results we deliver year after year.
The University of Olivet’s head wrestling coach, Brandon Brissette, was named the 2025 Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association (MIAA) Wrestling Coach of the Year. Under his leadership, the 2025 Comets finished with a perfect 4-0 record in MIAA dual matches, earning the MIAA Championship title.
But that’s not a one-time achievement. Since the MIAA reinstated wrestling in 2019, The University of Olivet has captured the MIAA championship five times in 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2025. This level of consistency reflects a culture of discipline, expert coaching, and unmatched team chemistry.
Success doesn’t end at the conference level either. In 13 of the last 14 years, at least one wrestler from The University of Olivet has qualified for the NCAA Division III National Championships. Four of those qualifiers earned All-American honors, placing among the top eight in the nation.
Our wrestling program isn’t just about building strong athletes. It’s about building successful individuals. Many of our alumni have gone on to coach, lead, and mentor the next generation of wrestlers, bringing The University of Olivet’s legacy into communities around the country. Our program is built to help wrestlers reach their full potential, not just as athletes, but as scholars and leaders.
How We Prepare You for the Future
At The University of Olivet, we know that college wrestling is just one chapter of your story. That’s why we focus just as much on what comes after graduation as we do on your time in the program. From day one, our student-athletes have access to career development resources, networking opportunities, and personalized academic advising that helps align their education with long-term goals.
Whether you’re interested in becoming a coach, pursuing a graduate degree, or stepping into a professional career, we’ll help you build the foundation you need to succeed. Our alumni have gone on to earn advanced degrees, lead high school and collegiate wrestling programs, and thrive in business, healthcare, and education. Wrestling at The University of Olivet means learning how to work hard, lead with confidence, and follow through. All traits that carry far beyond the mat and into every area of life after college.
Choose Us As Your Michigan Wrestling University
Choosing The University of Olivet means joining a supportive, tight-knit community that’s focused on helping you succeed both academically and athletically. Our campus offers a welcoming environment where you can form strong relationships with classmates, professors, and teammates. As a student-athlete, you’ll benefit from personalized academic support, including tutoring services and flexible scheduling that helps you balance your course load with your training and competition schedule.
Explore our athletics programs if you’re ready to see what life looks like at the best wrestling university in Michigan. If you’d like to see it in person, schedule a campus visit to meet the coaching staff and explore our athletic facilities firsthand.