Las Vegas, NM- Chris Freije has been named the Men's Head Wrestling coach at New Mexico Highlands University, the announcement made today by Shanna Halalilo and Jim Deisler, Co-Athletic Directors at NMHU. Freije will take over the program following the conclusion of the NCAA Championships in March.
"We couldn't be happier to have Chris be our Head Wrestling Coach. He's not only experienced, but extremely passionate about Wrestling and we're excited to see him find success with the program."
Chris brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to NMHU's wrestling program. He is a NCAA DII National Finalist for Western Colorado University, an RMAC/Super Region 4 champion who has competed both for Arizona State University and Western Colorado University.
During his coaching tenure, Chris has coached over 30 National Qualifiers, 3 NCAA DII National Champions, 16 NCAA DII All-Americans, 15 NCAA DII Super Region Champions, and Multiple NCAA DII Super Region finalists. Chris currently serves as the Associate Head Coach at Lander University and has been instrumental in their rise to a top program in the country in only three seasons. Chris is originally from Arizona and will use his ties to the Southwest community in developing the wrestling program at NMHU.
"I'm ecstatic to be named the next head coach of New Mexico Highlands University Wrestling. I want to thank my family, and mentors for their support and guidance throughout the process. Along with them I want to thank Jim Deisler, and Shanna Halalilo for being believing in my vision for the program moving forward. There is a strong history of wrestling here in New Mexico, and across the Southwest. The sport is also a great mesh with the traditions, and culture of the region. Our focus is to bring in honest, hard-working, quality young men who have their sights set on becoming college graduates, consistently competing for NCAA Championships and find enjoyment & gratitude for the daily process of moving towards attaining success."
