
Grand View names Henderson head wrestling coach
DES MOINES, IOWA -- Grand View University Athletics is excited to announce the promotion of Grant Henderson to head men's wrestling coach, succeeding longtime mentor and coach Nick Mitchell. A Grand View alumnus, national champion, and longtime assistant coach, Henderson brings experience in the program and a clear vision for its future.
"I am very excited to announce that Grant Henderson will be the next Head Men's Wrestling Coach at Grand View," said Troy Plummer, Vice President for Athletics. "From his time in a Viking singlet to his many years as an Assistant Coach, he has always embodied the championship standards, work ethic, and integrity that define Grand View athletics and our wrestling program. His connection to our student-athletes, his deep understanding of what it takes to compete at the highest level, and his commitment to the values of Grand View make him the ideal leader for this next chapter."
Henderson expressed gratitude to those who guided and supported him along his journey. "First and foremost, I want to thank Coach Mitchell. I am not the man I am today without him. He means so much to this program and will always be a cornerstone of Grand View Wrestling. His impact will keep shaping this place long after any of us are gone. I am grateful for every day I had to wrestle and coach alongside him. I am here because of him.
I also want to thank Coach Mitchell's family. They have given so much to this program and to all of us who have come through it. Their support and sacrifice are a big reason this culture has stayed strong for so long."
Outgoing head coach Nick Mitchell comments, "I am so excited to watch Grant take the lead of this program and continue to raise the bar. He is everything GV Wrestling stands for, and I could not imagine a better fit for the next head coach. With Coach Reedy by his side, I am confident they will build on the championship culture they have each been instrumental in building."
Henderson is appreciative, "We have incredible support here from our president, administrators, and donors to our alumni and the families of our athletes who believe in Grand View Wrestling and the Championship Lifestyle that defines it. I want to give a special thank you to our Athletic Director, Troy Plummer, and Assistant AD, Britt Einerson, for their trust and belief in this program and in me."
Associate head coach Paul Reedy offered his strong support for the decision, "I'm fired up to work with Coach Henderson. He's the perfect person to continue the championship legacy that Coach Mitchell has left. His passion and work ethic are unmatched. As a GV alum, nobody is more equipped for the job than Coach Henderson."
Henderson says, "I am blessed with the best staff of coaches who care deeply about our athletes and the direction we are heading. I believe in the leadership within our team, and I know together we will keep writing the story of Grand View Wrestling and continue to push the standard higher. The core values that have always defined this program are not changing. They have shaped so many of us who have come through these doors, and they will continue to guide everything we do. The Championship Lifestyle is still the secret, and it will stay that way.
I can't say enough about Reedy and how crucial he is to this program. He's been here through it all and continues to pour everything he has into making this place what it is. He's the best in the business, and I'm grateful I get to keep working alongside him. He deserves all the praise in the world. Grand View Wrestling runs because of him and everything he does behind the scenes to keep this place rolling."
Henderson was a three-time national finalist and two-time national champion during his collegiate wrestling career at Grand View. Since joining the coaching staff in 2018, he has played a pivotal role in the team's success, contributing to multiple national championships. In addition to his coaching responsibilities, Henderson has been actively involved in youth development through his work with the Eastern Iowa Wrestling Club and the Viking Wrestling Club.
"None of this would be possible without my wife, Karlie," says Henderson. "She is my biggest supporter and the reason I can give myself fully to this program. And our daughter, Wrenley, is already part of this family. Watching her grow up around this culture means everything to me. I want her to see what belief, love, and hard work can build."