By Baldwin Wallace Sports Information

BEREA, Ohio -- Baldwin Wallace University Director of Athletics Steve Thompson has announced the hiring of Mia Rodriguez as the University's first women's wrestling head coach.

"We are excited to have Mia join the BW family and help to launch our 28th varsity program, including our 14th women's team," said Thompson. "Her love of the sports is remarkable. I know our future student-athletes are going to reach new heights with her tutelage."

Rodriguez comes to BW after serving the past two years as a graduate assistant coach at North Central (Ill.) College and as the head coach of the West Suburban Girls Wrestling Club for two years.

"I am beyond excited for the opportunity to begin the women's wrestling program at Baldwin Wallace University," stated Rodriguez. "Alongside the men's program, my goal is to build an environment where young ladies will have the ability to compete at the next level, shatter barriers, empower all female athletes in the world of wrestling and their respective fields of academics all while inspiring the entire organization to strive for excellence by fueling their passion with success. My role as the first women's wrestling head coach isn't just about winning in wrestling; it's also about the growth & development that will pave the way of excellence in all aspects of life. As a former collegiate athlete, myself I am grateful for my family & all of the coaches that have been in my corner who have encouraged, motivated & helped me get to where I am today. I am especially honored that the staff at Baldwin Wallace has entrusted me with such an important task and thrilled to have the opportunity to live my dream and continue to grow women's wrestling."

During her time at North Central, she was a member of the 2023 NCAA Division III Women's Wrestling Champions. Rodriguez also helped mentor 27 All-Americans and four individual national champions.

As the head coach for the West Suburban Girls Wrestling Club, she guided young ladies on the importance of nutrition, sleep habits and technic to improve themselves as wrestlers.

"Mia brings some great wrestling credentials as a competitor but most importantly has established herself as a young women's coach with a bright future, commented head men's wrestling coach Jamie Gibbs. "She brings a wealth of knowledge and has a great reputation as a strong leader and recruiter. Mia has been mentored by some of the best coaches in women's wrestling and was an integral part of helping North Central win a National Championship in 2023 as part of their elite coaching staff. I am looking forward to Mia joining the BW wrestling family and think we have found a great fit to build this program nationally."

Rodriguez earned a Bachelor of Science in elementary and special education from Campbellsville (Ky.) University. She was a four-year member of the women's wrestling team and a three NAIA National Championship teams.

Rodriguez was six-time Illinois High School Association State Champion in folkstyle and freestyle for Belvidere North High School. She also was a four-time USA Wrestling High School All-American.