WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. — A historic moment awaits the West Liberty University women's wrestling program this weekend as four Hilltoppers compete in the NCAA National Collegiate Women's Wrestling Championships, set for March 6–7 at Xtream Arena.
The inaugural NCAA championship event will feature the nation's top women's wrestlers competing for national titles, with West Liberty sending Trinity Howard (117), Mariah Mills (124), Cassia Zammit (131), and Jamie Shapton (207) to represent the Hilltoppers on the national stage.
The quartet qualified for nationals after strong performances at the NCAA Super Regional hosted on the Hilltop, where West Liberty finished team runner-up with four national qualifiers.
Head coach Troy Bell believes the program has reached another milestone.
"The excitement on the Hilltop for our Women's Wrestling program continues to build," Bell said. "After hosting the first ever NCAA Super Regional and finishing as team runner-up with four national qualifiers, we are excited about the next step. I look forward to representing these ladies and West Liberty University on the national stage."
Howard (16-7) opens her tournament against seventh-seeded Shea Reisel (22-2) of Dubuque in the championship first round.
The bracket features several nationally ranked competitors, including No. 1 seed Yu Sakamoto of McKendree and No. 2 Karissa Turnwall of Emmanuel.
Howard enters the tournament confident in her preparation.
"During these last few days leading up to Nationals, my mindset has reached flow state," Howard said. "It's about knowing I've done everything I was meant to and to keep trusting the process until the end."
Mills (19-4) will face Jayleah Pletz (30-11) of Lock Haven in her opening match.
The bracket is anchored by No. 1 Sara Sterner (North Central) and No. 2 Virginia Foard (King), but Mills sits in a competitive section that could produce several potential quarterfinal matchups.
"Going into Nationals, I've been focusing on the fact that this is the fun part after all the hard work I've put in," Mills said. "I get to do what I love most while showcasing my skills at the highest level. I'm feeling grateful for this opportunity to represent my family and school."
Zammit (29-6) enters nationals with the most wins among the Hilltoppers and opens against Agnia Krakovska (18-5) of Simon Fraser.
The 131-pound bracket includes unbeaten No. 1 seed Cameron Guerin (McKendree) and No. 2 seed Aubre Krazer (Lehigh).
"I'm super grateful for the opportunity to experience the first NCAA tournament," Zammit said. "I'm excited to go have fun and represent West Liberty."
Shapton (23-14) will begin her championship run against Alivia Davey (3-1) of Illinois Wesleyan.
The bracket is highlighted by top seeds Tristan Kelly (McKendree) and Sabrina Nauss (Grand Valley State), along with several nationally ranked competitors.
"During the last couple days, I have been trying to keep my mind clear and just work on what I know and trust in myself and the process," Shapton said.
Competition begins Friday at Xtream Arena in Coralville, Iowa, with national champions crowned Saturday night.
West Liberty University blends a small-town environment with a comprehensive college experience, fostering students' aspirations through hands-on learning, personalized support, and unique academic programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels. Learn more at westliberty.edu.
