MANHEIM, Pa. – The University of Central Missouri Mules wrestling team continued its rise in the national spotlight, climbing to No. 14 in the latest National Wrestling Coaches Association (NWCA) NCAA Division II team rankings released Thursday, Jan. 22nd.

Central Missouri is one of four teams from the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association (MIAA) represented in the Top 25, as the league continues to lead all conferences in nationally ranked wrestlers.

Five Mules earned spots in the latest NWCA individual rankings, highlighted by Damon Ashworth, who remains the No. 1-ranked wrestler at 184 pounds. Ashworth holds an impressive 18-1 record on the season.

Joining him in the rankings is Gage Bernall, who moved from No. 9 to No. 5 at 165 pounds with a 21-2 record, while 141 pounder James Wright checks in at No. 10 after compiling a 15-5 mark this season. At 149 pounds, Garrett Lyons earned a No. 15 ranking with a 15-5 record, and heavyweight Torin Forsyth is ranked No. 14  with a 17-3 record.

The Mules kick off their MIAA Conference duals with Fort Hays State on Friday, Jan. 23, at 3:00 p.m. (CT).