NCAA D-I Wrestling Program Struggling
Wrestling is seen as one of the most important disciplines in modern mixed martial arts, with all fighters working to defend their wrestling and grappling.
It seems like an ironic twist that NCAA wrestling has seen a decline in attendance even though student athletes can enter MMA as fighters, coaches, and analysts.
This is an important time because NCAA wrestling and MMA both benefit if wrestling is well supported by school districts and colleges. Casual MMA fans may not appreciate the skill and ability of high-level wrestlers, such as Jon Fitch and Gray Maynard, but their grappling abilities allow them to win fights. 
Even though D-I wrestling teams are facing problems, amateur U.S. wrestling remains a strong sport, supporters note. Division II, Division III and NAIA schools have seen an increase in athletes, along with continued success for high school wrestling.
“Our vital signs are very strong at every level other than NCAA Division I,” said Mike Moyer, National Wrestling Coaches Association executive director, in an interview with Josh Gross. “That goes back to focused excellence and the down sizing trend at athletic departments across the country at non-enrollment-conscious schools.”
It’s obvious that struggling at the most important level of amateur wrestling, NCAA D-I, isn’t a good thing — but it’s a problem that can be resolved. It’s great to hear DII, DIII, NAIA and high school wrestling are thriving.
A new generation of wrestlers who grew up watching MMA instead of WWE will hopefully help keep younger generations interested in wrestling.