Image courtesy Barton Community College

The Barton Community College Board of Trustees voted unanimously at its September meeting to approve the launch of a women’s wrestling program, set to begin competition in the 2026-2027 academic year.

With this addition, Barton’s nationally recognized athletic lineup now features a total of 23 programs, reflecting the college’s ongoing commitment to expanding opportunities for student-athletes and responding to the growing popularity of women’s wrestling across the state of Kansas.

Barton Athletic Director Trevor Rolfs said the timing is ideal given the sport’s momentum at the high school level.

The new program is expected to increase full-time student enrollment by 20 to 30 students, generating additional in-state credit hours and expanding Barton’s reach within its service area. Barton joins a growing number of community colleges and universities in Kansas that have embraced women’s wrestling. The sport has seen exponential growth since its official recognition by the Kansas State High School Activities Association in 2019.

Head Wrestling Coach Nathan Broeckelman, who helped usher in women’s wrestling at the high school level, said he’s eager to build a program that includes both men’s and women’s teams.

Recruitment for the inaugural women’s team will begin in the coming months, with the program ready to offer new opportunities for high school athletes across Kansas who wish to compete at the collegiate level.

Those interested can fill out the athlete form at bartonsports.com.