The Open Mat presents awards annually in three categories for each division of college wrestling at the conclusion of the season. Awards are presented for Freshman of the Year, Coach of the Year and Wrestler of the Year.

Cristelle Rodriguez of Doane has been named the 2026 NAIA Women's Wrestler of the Year by The Open Mat.

Rodriguez closed out a dominant senior season by capturing her third consecutive national championship, recording four technical falls at the 2026 NAIA Women's Wrestling Championships. She outscored her opponents 41-0 on her way to the 124-pound title.

For her performance, Rodriguez was named the tournament's Most Outstanding Wrestler -- an honor she also earned in 2024 -- while contributing 26 team points for the Tigers.

Her dominance extended well beyond the national tournament. Rodriguez finished the season 20-0, with every victory coming by technical fall or pin. She won regular season tournament titles at the ERAU Mile High Open and Women`s Conner Oppenheim

Rodriguez concluded her career on a 59-match winning streak, posting a perfect 68-0 record at 123/124 pounds and an 85-2 mark overall.