FAYETTE, Mo. — Central Methodist University decided earlier this year to begin a wrestling program for both men and women starting in the fall.

Now, they have a head coach.

Former Iowa Central national champion Terrel Wilbourn was introduced as the head men’s coach by the school recently. He was an assistant coach at Lindenwood University for the past two seasons.

“We are extremely excited to announce Terrel as head coach of the Central Methodist University Eagles,” CMU vice president for enrollment management Dr. Joe Parisi in a press release. “Terrel has all the ingredients of a successful head coach: intelligence, innovation, character, organizational and leadership skills, and a commanding presence. He also has a stellar reputation, and is one of the most decorated high school and college wrestlers the state of Missouri has seen.

“I feel extremely fortunate and could not be more excited for Eagle Nation and the future of our program. I truly believe that we have hired the premier young coach in the country and that exciting times lie ahead.”

Parisi previously served as a wrestling coach himself, winning five NAIA national championships during his time on the mat.

Wilbourn was an NCAA national champion at Lindenwood, going 25-0 as a senior to become the first such champion in school history. He finished as a four-time All-American and three-time national finalist, along with his title at Iowa Central.

“I’m so grateful for the opportunity,” stated Wilbourn. “Now it’s time to get to work.”

Prior to competing for the Tritons, Wilbourn was a three-time state champion, NHSCA national champion, cadet freestyle national champion, and junior freestyle national runner-up.

He also coached with Maritime Wrestling Academy in Kentucky and with a middle school team in the state, earning the 2018 Kentucky Middle School Coach of the Year.

Central Methodist competes in the Heart of America Athletic Conference and the NAIA.