Decatur, IL – Millikin University Wrestling's Ryan Birt continues to represent the Big Blue with pride on the national stage. A strong advocate for collegiate wrestling, Birt recently elevated to the post of President of the NWCA Division III Leadership Council.

"Ryan Birt's election by his peers to serve as President of the NWCA Division III Leadership Council is a tremendous recognition of the respect he has earned throughout collegiate wrestling." Said Vice President for Athletics and Community Engagement Lori Kerans '85. "We see Coach Birt's leadership every day at Millikin in the program he has built, the young people he develops, and the expectations he sets for himself and those around him.  He is a leader and champion.  We are incredibly proud to have Coach Birt representing Millikin University on the national stage."

Birt, Millikin's Director of Wrestling, had been serving as the Vice President of the National Wrestling Coaches Association Division III Leadership Council. He was voted by his peers to the post of President-Elect and took over as President in August of 2026.

"I'm incredibly humbled and honored to be voted by my peers to serve as President of the NWCA Division III Leadership Council." Said Birt. "There is no greater privilege than having the opportunity to represent the coaches, student-athletes, and programs that make Division III wrestling so special.

I'm laser focused on working alongside our leadership group and the NWCA to continue moving Division III wrestling forward. As the largest division in college wrestling, we have tremendous momentum, and I believe we have earned the opportunity to take meaningful steps in the continued growth and advancement of our division.

I'm excited to advocate for Division III, build on the progress that has already been made, and help position our division and our sport for an even stronger future."

The leadership group works directly with coaches, athletic administrators, and governing bodies on items like legislation, regulations, scheduling, and championship protocols. The group also oversees the NWCA Division III Coaches Poll, as well as other ranking committees. In addition, they coordinate regional and national awards and honors, as well as playing a role in the NWCA Hall of Fame.

Birt's advocacy and efforts to grow wrestling hit another major milestone in October, when the Millikin University Women's Wrestling program, slated to be over 30 student-athletes strong in its inaugural campaign, begins its first season of official competition. Both the men's and women's programs take part in the Blue-White dual on October 24.