Cleary University to Add Women's Wrestling in 2026-27 as 21st Varsity Sport

Howell, MI – Cleary University has announced the addition of women’s wrestling as the twenty-first sport sponsored, beginning in the 2026-27 season.

Cleary will join Defiance, Indiana Tech, Lourdes, Rochester Christian, and Siena Heights as members of the WHAC with women’s wrestling.  Defiance College announced the addition of women’s wrestling on July 2, 2025.  Siena Heights University is scheduled to close prior to Cleary’s first participation in the sport.

“We are thrilled to announce the addition of women’s wrestling to our athletics program,” said Director of Athletics Max Ballinger. “This new opportunity reflects our continued commitment to providing a well-rounded student-athlete experience and growing our presence within the WHAC, and at the NAIA level. We look forward to building a competitive and inclusive team that will make our campus and the Howell community proud.”

If you are interested in becoming a member of the inaugural team, you can fill out a prospective student form, and then apply to Cleary.

Official sponsorship for 2026-27 is pending board approval*