KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The University of Central Missouri wrestling team has been picked third in the 2025-26 Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association (MIAA) Preseason Coaches Poll, the league office announced Thursday morning.

The Mules earned 17 points in voting conducted by the league's head coaches. Nebraska Kearney claimed the top spot with 25 points and five first-place votes, while Central Oklahoma followed in second with 21 points and one first-place nod.

Central Missouri was voted just behind the Bronchos and ahead of a three-way tie for fourth between Fort Hays State, Newman, and Ouachita, who each tallied nine points.

2025-26 MIAA Wrestling Preseason Coaches Poll

1. Nebraska Kearney [5] – 25 points
2. Central Oklahoma [1] – 21 points
3. Central Missouri – 17 points
T4. Fort Hays State – 9 points
T4. Newman – 9 points
T4. Ouachita – 9 points

The Mules will open their 2025-26 season at the Missouri Duals on Sunday, Nov. 2, against Missouri Valley College inside the Hearnes Center in Columbia, Mo.