BURNSVILLE, Minn. – The defending national runner-up Augustana wrestling was selected to finish second in the 2025-26 NSIC Preseason Coaches' Poll, conference officials announced Thursday morning, while National Champion Cael Larson was selected as the NSIC Preseason Wrestler of the Year.
 
St. Cloud State was selected as the preseason favorite in the NSIC, earning 96 points and seven first-place votes to rank five points ahead of the Vikings, who were second with 91 points and three first-place votes. Parkside was third with 84 points and the final first-place vote. 
 
Head coach Jason Reitmeier enters his 23rd season leading the Vikings, who return two NCAA All-Americans with Larson joined by Max Ramberg (197 pounds). They also return a total of seven regional starters from a team that placed third at the Super Region V tournament.
 
"I really love the maturity of our seasoned guys mixed in with the exuberance of our young guys," said Reitmeier. "They are going to be a fun group to watch. I think we will grow daily in our wrestling, and lives. It makes me excited to see where that takes them this season."
 
Larson, a senior from Piedmont, S.D., looks toward a National Championship in a new weight class as he makes the jump from 149 pounds to 157. The two-time NCAA Qualifier and defending region champion went 22-5 a season ago, including 13 consecutive victories to end the season at the top of the podium. 

"Cael is and exceptional student-athlete," said Reitmeier. "He excels in all areas of his life being able to budget his academic excellence with his athletic goals. Cael is currently getting his MBA after graduating with a Business degree. Cael is a natural leader, leading, often times, by example. His selflessness shows in the work he does with our younger kids. Always grabbing them for workout, teaching and leading them to continue to be better."
 
After opening the season at the DWU open, the Vikings will challenge themselves with a trip to Brookings, S.D., to take on South Dakota State for a dual on Nov. 14. They open their home slate with perennial powerhouse Central Oklahoma On Nov. 16 and begin the NSIC stretch with a road dual at Northern State on Dec. 4. All roads lead home for the Vikings as they eye the NCAA National Championships at the Denny Sanford Premier Center March 13-14, 2026.   
 
2025-26 NSIC Wrestling Preseason Coaches' Poll
1. St Cloud State – 96 (7)
3. Augustana – 91 (3)
2. Parkside – 84 (1)
4. University of Mary – 71
6. Minnesota State – 66
5. Northern State – 57
T-9. MSU Moorhead – 44
T-9. Sioux Falls – 32
7. Minot State – 30
8. Southwest Minnesota State – 24
11. Jamestown - 10