Nick Mitchell Steps Down at NAIA Power Grand View

DES MOINES, IOWA - Grand View University announced today the departure of Head Wrestling Coach Nick Mitchell, after a historic tenure that has set the standard for excellence in collegiate wrestling. After 17 seasons leading the Vikings, Mitchell will step away from coaching to pursue an opportunity outside of collegiate athletics.

"It is hard to put into words what Coach Mitchell has done for our wrestling program and for Grand View University Athletics," said Troy Plummer, Athletic Director. "He steps away as the most successful men's wrestling coach in NAIA history and will leave behind a legacy of remarkable achievement. Nick has been an incredible leader, mentor, and ambassador for Grand View University. His vision and relentless commitment to a championship lifestyle elevated not only our men's wrestling program but also the entire culture of Grand View Athletics. While we are sad to see him go, we are deeply grateful for the foundation of excellence and integrity he built here. Nick will always be a valued member of the Viking family, and we wish him nothing but the best in his next chapter."

Mitchell's impact on Grand View Wrestling and the sport as a whole is unmatched. During his 17 years as head coach, he compiled a staggering 205-12 dual record and guided the Vikings to 13 NAIA National Championships in the last 14 years, along with 12 NWCA National Dual Titles, 7 Central Region National Qualifier Championships, and 9 Heart of America Conference titles. Under his leadership, Grand View produced 157 All-Americans and 45 NAIA Individual National Champions, both NAIA records. His teams also hold the NAIA National Championship Team Scoring Record with 234.5 points in 2017 and achieved the longest collegiate dual win streak in history with 162 consecutive victories from 2011 to 2022.

Mitchell's personal accolades include being named the 2020 USA Wrestling Coach of the Year, six-time NWCA National Coach of the Year, and nine-time NAIA National Coach of the Year.

Mitchell shared, "As I reflect on the last 17 years at Grand View, all I can think of is how much gratitude I have for my time here. I'm eternally grateful God gave me this opportunity at the right time in my life. I have been truly blessed to work with incredible student-athletes, coaches, and administrators who believe in the same championship lifestyle we built this program on from the beginning and that continues to drive the program today.

To my wife, Rachelle, thank you for your constant support through every high and low. And to my daughters, Brynn and Paige, your pride in your dad and the program has meant the world. Thank you for the sacrifices that come with being a coach's family. You were always my reset when the pressure got heavy, and I am endlessly grateful."

As Grand View Wrestling looks to the future, the program will continue under familiar and capable leadership. Troy Plummer said, "I am excited that long-time assistant coaches Grant Henderson and Paul Reedy have committed to lead our men's wrestling program into this next chapter. To say that the program is in good hands would be an understatement. These two have been the backbone of our success for many years working alongside Coach Mitchell."

Mitchell comments, "Coach Henderson, Coach Reedy, Coach Turner, and the entire staff are an exceptional group who will continue to lead the Grand View Wrestling program with excellence. I look forward to seeing them take this to the next level.

Coaching at Grand View has been an incredible honor. I am deeply proud of what we've accomplished together and forever thankful to have been part of the Viking family."

Since its inception, Grand View Wrestling has become one of the most dominant programs in collegiate athletics, setting a national standard for performance, discipline, and community. Mitchell's leadership has shaped a program defined by excellence both on and off the mat, which will continue to inspire future generations of Viking athletes.