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HBCU's First Division I Women's Wrestling Program
Delaware State University becomes the first HBCU to launch a Division I women's wrestling program, supported by a significant donation and boosted by the sport's rising popularity.
English
United States
Us PoliticsSportsGender IssuesWomenUniversityHbcuWrestling
Delaware State UniversityHbcu Wrestling InitiativeNcaa
Jahi JonesAlecia Shields-GadsonSarah HildebrandtAmit ElorKennedy BladesHelen Maroulis
- What are Jahi Jones' hopes for the future of HBCU wrestling?
- Jahi Jones hopes this initiative will inspire other HBCUs to add men's and women's wrestling programs, expanding opportunities for student-athletes.
- What are the benefits of this program, as stated by the athletic director?
- Alecia Shields-Gadson, Delaware State's athletic director, highlighted the opportunity for women student-athletes to compete, grow, and inspire others through the new program.
- What factors contribute to the timing being ideal for launching this program?
- The growth of girls' wrestling as America's fastest-growing high school sport and the recent success of Team USA in the Olympics make this a timely and exciting development for the sport.
- Which university will be the first HBCU to offer Division I women's wrestling?
- Delaware State University will be the first HBCU to offer Division I women's wrestling, starting in the 2025-26 school year. This coincides with women's wrestling's expected move to an NCAA championship sport.
- How much funding did the HBCU Wrestling Initiative contribute to the Delaware State program?
- The HBCU Wrestling Initiative, led by Jahi Jones, contributed $1.25 million to launch the Delaware State program, demonstrating their commitment to growing the sport at HBCUs.