For the 2nd Time in his Career Todd Hibbs Takes Reigns of Re-Emerging Program in Michigan

Posted on | October 25, 2011 | No Comments

“We are pleased and excited to present Todd Hibbs as our new wrestling coach,” says Alma Athletic Director John Leister. “He has a great track record of success in this sport, both on and off the mat. Todd’s hiring re-opens an exciting chapter in the Scots’ athletic department, as we bring back a sport that has a strong history here. Everyone who interviewed him came away with the strong opinion that Todd is the right person to resurrect our program and build Alma College wrestling.”

The addition of men’s wrestling, absent since 1984, recognizes the high participation rate of high school students competing in the sport, says Leister. “More than 450 high schools in Michigan offer varsity wrestling, with approximately 11,300 participants in 2010, along with approximately 45,000 high school wrestlers in Wisconsin, Ohio, Indiana and Illinois.”

Wrestling is significantly under-represented at the college level,” says Leister. “Adding wrestling provides opportunities for students who are interested in collegiate wrestling to maximize their post-high school experience at Alma.”

Hibbs was Head Coach at Olivet from 2004-08, rebuilding an eliminated program to a top-10 team nationally. His team also ranked second academically in NCAA Division III (97 schools), and his fund-raising efforts assisted in moving to the program into new on-campus facilities.He also served as Head Coach of the men’s and women’s cross country teams in 2004-2005.

“I am elated as is my entire family,” said Hibbs. “That Alma College is adding another collegiate option for the young men of our great wrestling state of Michigan is tremendous news. To have President Abernathy and Athletic Director John Leister entrust me with leading this new program, it’s a privilege and I am eager to get started.”

Alma College has a strong wrestling legacy, with varsity teams competing through 1984. The 1980-81, 1981-82 and 1982-83 wrestling teams won consecutive league titles and are members of the Alma College Athletics Hall of Fame.

The team will compete in the new 2,400-seat Art Smith Arena. Recruiting questionnaires can be filled out on the Alma College Athletics website, and for further information on the program please contact Todd Hibbs at hibbstw@alma.edu or 989-463-7963.  

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