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Iowa Wrestling Returns with Dominating Victory in 'Soldier Salute'

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Saturday, January 3rd 2026 at 3:52 GMT by The Gazette

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Iowa Wrestling Roars Back: A Soldier Salute Marks Triumphant Return After COVID-19 Pause

The highly anticipated return of Iowa Hawkeye wrestling to competition was marked with emotion, tradition, and a resounding victory on Saturday, December 18th, as the team hosted Illinois State in Carver-Hawkeye Arena. The event, billed as the "Soldier Salute," served not only as a welcome reintroduction to live action after a COVID-induced hiatus but also as a poignant tribute to military personnel and veterans. The Hawkeyes dominated the dual meet, winning 35-9, signaling their readiness for the upcoming season.

For those unfamiliar, Iowa wrestling holds a legendary status in collegiate athletics. The program boasts an unparalleled history of success, with 26 national championships and a deeply ingrained culture of excellence. However, the pandemic significantly disrupted this tradition, forcing the cancellation of the entire 2021 season – a first in over seven decades. The absence left fans yearning for the familiar roar of Carver-Hawkeye Arena and the intensity of Hawkeye wrestling. This Soldier Salute event was designed to fulfill that longing while honoring those who serve.

The "Soldier Salute" theme was meticulously planned, incorporating pre-match ceremonies recognizing local military members and veterans. The arena itself was decorated with American flags and banners displaying messages of support for the armed forces. A moving moment occurred during the national anthem when a group of active duty soldiers and veterans were recognized on the mat. This focus on honoring service resonated deeply with the audience, creating an atmosphere of patriotism and gratitude. Head coach Tom Brands emphasized the importance of this element, stating that it was “special” to have the military involved and to show their appreciation for their sacrifices.

Beyond the ceremonial aspects, fans were eager to witness the performance of the 2021-22 Hawkeye squad. The team welcomed back several key contributors from previous seasons, including seniors Kaleb Yoder (165 lbs) and Austin DeSanto (174 lbs), both highly decorated wrestlers who have consistently anchored the lineup. However, there were also new faces to observe, particularly freshmen like Drake Ayala (133lbs), a highly touted recruit considered by many to be a future star.

The dual meet itself largely lived up to expectations. Iowa demonstrated their strength across multiple weight classes. Ayala started strong with a pin at 133 pounds, setting the tone for the Hawkeyes’ dominance. Yoder continued his winning ways at 165 pounds, showcasing his technical prowess and resilience. DeSanto also secured a victory at 174, solidifying Iowa's advantage. While Illinois State managed to pick up a few wins, they were ultimately outmatched by the depth and talent of the Hawkeye roster. The final score reflected this disparity: 35-9 in favor of Iowa.

The return wasn’t without some adjustments. After a year away from competition, there was an understandable rustiness visible in certain matches. Coach Brands acknowledged this, stating that while the win was important, the focus now shifts to refining technique and building team chemistry. He emphasized the importance of continuous improvement throughout the season, highlighting areas where wrestlers can further develop their skills.

This Soldier Salute event served as more than just a wrestling dual; it represented a symbolic return to normalcy for Iowa fans and a reaffirmation of the program's enduring legacy. The pandemic’s impact on collegiate athletics has been significant, but the Hawkeyes are determined to overcome these challenges and continue their pursuit of excellence. The win against Illinois State was a positive first step, fueled by the energy of the crowd and the spirit of honoring those who serve our country.

Looking ahead, Iowa faces a challenging schedule that includes matchups against ranked opponents like Oklahoma State, Purdue, and Minnesota – all traditional powerhouses in collegiate wrestling. The team will need to build on this initial victory and address any lingering weaknesses if they hope to contend for another national championship. The article references the ongoing evolution of the Big Ten Conference as well, noting increased competition and a shifting landscape within the league (as detailed in related articles about conference realignment).

Ultimately, the Soldier Salute provided a powerful reminder of why Iowa wrestling is so beloved: it’s not just about winning; it's about tradition, community, and honoring those who make sacrifices for our nation. The roar of Carver-Hawkeye Arena was back, and with it, the hope that Iowa wrestling will once again reach the pinnacle of collegiate athletics.

To further explore related content:

• [ Iowa Wrestling History ] - Official Iowa Wrestling Website
• [ Big Ten Conference Wrestling ] – Information about the Big Ten wrestling conference.