Wichita to Continue Hosting NAIA Men’s Wrestling Championships
The city will host three additional years, bringing the total to six straight
Posted On: January 24, 2023 By :The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics has selected Wichita, Kansas, to host its 2023–2025 Men’s Wrestling National Championships at Hartman Arena. Visit Wichita hosted the championships from 2020 through 2022, bringing hundreds of athletes to the region resulting in nearly $800,000 in estimated economic impact each year the event is hosted in the city.
“We are pleased to continue holding the men’s wrestling championship in Wichita,” said Austin Bennett, NAIA director of championships. “Visit Wichita has been an outstanding host for the championship and excels at organizing a fantastic student-athlete experience.”
The 2023 championship will take place March 3–4 at Hartman Arena and will be open to the public. Tickets are on sale and can be purchased through Hartman Arena’s ticketing site.
“We are excited to once again bring this national event to the heart of the country for three more years,” said Josh Howell, vice president of sports development at Visit Wichita. “The event brings in competitors from all over the country, boosting local economic impact, is broadcast live on ESPN3 and is also a great opportunity for local and regional wrestling fans to enjoy two days of top-notch wrestling right here in the Wichita area.”
The NAIA Men’s Wrestling National Championship features 280 student-athletes from 61 schools across the country that compete in a 32-man, double elimination championship bracket in 10 weight classes. The event begins with eight mats and breaks down to one on championship night on Saturday, which is broadcast live on ESPN3.
“The KCAC is thrilled to see the NAIA Men’s Wrestling Championships continue at Hartman Arena in Park City under the direction of Visit Wichita,” said Scott Crawford, commissioner of the Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference. “This venue has proven to be ideal for this national championship and has a significant economic impact on the Greater Wichita community.”
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