5 Reasons Why The Cal Poly Humboldt Wrestling Revival Is Shaking Up NCAA Division II
The roar of the crowd is back in Arcata, California, as the Cal Poly Humboldt (CPH) men's wrestling program has officially returned, marking one of the most significant athletic revivals in the NCAA Division II landscape in recent memory. As of December 2025, the Lumberjacks are not just participating; they are actively building a foundation of competitive excellence under a new, highly-decorated coaching staff, signaling a major challenge to the established order of collegiate wrestling on the West Coast. This deep dive explores the fresh details, key personnel, and competitive outlook for the newly re-established program.
The journey to restore the program, which was a powerhouse under its former identity as Humboldt State University, has been fueled by passionate alumni support and a commitment from the university's leadership to restore a cherished tradition. The team has already posted a respectable 4-4 record in their initial competitive season and is focused on dominating their upcoming 2025-26 campaign. The combination of a rich history, significant financial backing, and a Hall of Fame coaching presence makes the Cal Poly Humboldt wrestling story one that every fan and competitor needs to watch closely.
The Phoenix Rises: Cal Poly Humboldt Wrestling Program Profile
The history of wrestling at the Arcata campus is long and storied, dating back to 1952 when the original program was launched. For decades, the Lumberjacks were a fixture in the regional competitive landscape, particularly thriving under the leadership of legendary coach Frank Cheek, who remains the most successful coach in the program's history.
However, the program was eventually discontinued, leaving a significant void in the university's athletic offerings and a tradition yearning for restoration. The recent revival efforts gained critical momentum through substantial financial backing, notably including a commitment of $50,000 gifts from dedicated alumni, which helped solidify the foundation for a sustainable NCAA Division II men's wrestling program.
University President Tom Jackson Jr. has championed the addition, stating that the return of wrestling will further enhance the Cal Poly Humboldt athletics department and community engagement. The program is now officially operating as the Cal Poly Humboldt Lumberjacks, competing at the NCAA Division II level and utilizing the Lumberjack Arena for their home dual meets.
The Zalesky Era: A Hall of Fame Coaching Duo Takes the Reins
The single most compelling factor in the Lumberjacks' rapid ascent is the hiring of the new coaching staff, led by Head Men's Wrestling Coach Lennie Zalesky. Executive Director of Athletics, Dr. Nick Pettit, announced Zalesky's hiring on March 11, bringing a coach with a proven track record of success at multiple levels of collegiate wrestling to the North Coast of California.
The coaching staff's pedigree was further solidified with the appointment of Lennie's brother, Jim Zalesky, as the new assistant wrestling coach. Jim Zalesky is a member of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame, a distinction that immediately lends unparalleled credibility and recruiting power to the nascent program.
The Zalesky brothers' combined experience provides a powerful magnet for top-tier wrestling talent. Their deep connections across the national wrestling community and their history of developing national qualifiers are crucial for building a competitive roster from the ground up. This highly experienced coaching duo is tasked not only with recruiting but also with instilling a championship culture in Arcata.
The Competitive Edge: 2024-2026 Season Outlook and Key Events
The Cal Poly Humboldt Lumberjacks have wasted no time in testing their mettle against strong competition. The 2024-25 season saw the team post an even 4-4 record, demonstrating their immediate capability to compete at the Division II level. These early dual meets and tournaments are vital for the team to gain experience and establish a solid base.
A major highlight of their early competition schedule was sending a strong contingent of 28 Lumberjacks to the prestigious Reno Tournament of Champions. Competing in such a deep field, which includes major Division I programs, provides invaluable experience and exposure for the young Cal Poly Humboldt wrestlers.
Looking ahead, the 2025-26 campaign is set to be even more significant. The season officially opens with the annual Black vs. Gold Intrasquad match on Friday, October 24, a tradition that helps showcase the team’s depth to local fans. Key events on the 2025-26 schedule include:
- Redwood Duals: A local tournament on October 24, featuring matchups against teams like College of the Redwoods and Pacific University ORE.
- Southern Oregon Dual Meet: A critical home match at the Lumberjack Arena on December 12, 2025, against a strong regional opponent.
- San Francisco State Matchup: The team will face San Francisco State on November 15, 2025, a contest that will be a key barometer of their standing within the regional Division II competitive landscape.
The competitive schedule is strategically designed to challenge the Lumberjacks, prepare them for the rigors of the NCAA postseason, and establish the Cal Poly Humboldt name as a serious contender in the Division II wrestling world.
The Future: Recruiting, Scholarships, and National Ambitions
The long-term success of the Cal Poly Humboldt wrestling program hinges on its ability to sustain top-tier recruiting. The revival of the program, coupled with the commitment to provide scholarships, makes CPH an attractive destination for high school wrestlers looking to compete at a high level while pursuing a degree in Northern California. The presence of the Zalesky brothers, with their Hall of Fame credentials, significantly enhances the program's recruiting efforts.
The program’s focus on building a strong roster capable of producing National Qualifiers is evident in their early season strategy. By competing in high-profile events like the Reno Tournament of Champions, the team is signaling its national ambitions and preparing its athletes for the intense competition required to succeed at the NCAA Division II National Championships.
For fans and alumni, the return of wrestling is more than just a new sport; it's a restoration of identity and a renewed source of pride for the university. The energy surrounding the Lumberjack Arena is palpable, promising an electric atmosphere for future dual meets and tournaments. As Cal Poly Humboldt continues to develop its roster and navigate the competitive landscape, its journey from revival to regional powerhouse will be one of the most compelling stories in college athletics.
Why Cal Poly Humboldt is a Must-Watch Program
The Cal Poly Humboldt wrestling revival is a perfect storm of history, leadership, and opportunity. The program is positioned to be a major disruptor in the NCAA Division II wrestling scene due to several key factors:
- Hall of Fame Leadership: The immediate credibility brought by Jim Zalesky and the proven coaching ability of Lennie Zalesky.
- Alumni and University Commitment: Significant financial support and institutional backing ensure the program’s stability and ability to offer competitive scholarships.
- Rich Tradition: Leveraging the legacy of the old Humboldt State program, including the era of Coach Frank Cheek, to build immediate fan and community engagement.
- Aggressive Schedule: The willingness to challenge the team early with tournaments like the Reno Tournament of Champions and key dual meets against regional rivals.
- Geographic Advantage: Establishing a strong Division II wrestling hub in Northern California, attracting top talent from the West Coast that might otherwise look elsewhere.
The Lumberjacks are on the mat, the tradition has been restored, and the path to national recognition is underway. Keep an eye on Arcata—the Cal Poly Humboldt wrestling program is here to stay and ready to compete.
Detail Author:
- Name : Ivy Collins IV
- Username : snitzsche
- Email : alec.beahan@murphy.biz
- Birthdate : 1999-01-01
- Address : 547 Walter Turnpike Suite 697 West Luigishire, WI 06103
- Phone : 949-229-5812
- Company : Reynolds and Sons
- Job : Aircraft Assembler
- Bio : Autem est beatae ea distinctio aperiam est unde. Magni blanditiis ut aliquid et et fuga. Et itaque aut sequi nemo.
Socials
twitter:
- url : https://twitter.com/claudine_xx
- username : claudine_xx
- bio : Ad neque saepe consequuntur. Error consequatur temporibus nostrum tenetur sint voluptas exercitationem.
- followers : 6659
- following : 2343
instagram:
- url : https://instagram.com/predovicc
- username : predovicc
- bio : Fugit earum est quam nisi. Voluptatem inventore voluptas illo aut eligendi.
- followers : 451
- following : 1371
linkedin:
- url : https://linkedin.com/in/cpredovic
- username : cpredovic
- bio : Facere nulla asperiores repellendus reiciendis.
- followers : 1115
- following : 543
