Illinois wrestling head coach Mike Poeta has announced the signing of eight new athletes who will join the University of Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics for the 2026-27 season. The recruits come from various high schools in Illinois and Iowa and bring a record of state championships and national recognition.
The new class includes Nicholas Garcia, a two-time IHSA State Champion from Marmion High School in Bartlett, Illinois. Garcia is also a three-time All-American. On his decision to join Illinois, Garcia said, “It felt like home.”
Josh Hoffer, who competes at 285 pounds and attends Washington Community High School in Washington, Illinois, is a state champion as well. Hoffer explained his choice: “Illinois was the obvious choice for me because it is close to home and I made good connections with the staff and team.”
Liam Kelly from Mount Carmel High School in Mokena, Illinois is an IHSA State Champion and four-time qualifier for the state championships. His brother Collin Kelly is already on the roster as a redshirt freshman. Liam Kelly stated, “Illinois has amazing coaching staff, it’s close to home and my brother, Colin goes there!”
Jake Knight joins from Bettendorf High School in Bettendorf, Iowa. He holds two state championships along with multiple All-American honors at Fargo Nationals. Knight commented on his decision: “I chose Illinois because of the incredible coaches and teammates, I was excited to join them here at Illinois.”
Wyatt Medlin comes from Washington Community High School as a two-time state champion and is ranked No. 38 nationally by FloWrestling for the class of 2026.
Jaxon Penovich represents Prospect and Saint Viator in Mount Prospect, Illinois. He has achieved both third- and fourth-place finishes at Fargo Nationals along with an IHSA State Championship.
Griff Powell from Lyons Township High School in Western Springs brings accolades including USA Wrestling Preseason National Champion and Academic All-State honors.
Aaron Stewart out of Warren Township High School in Gurnee is a two-time IHSA State Champion, three-time All-State honoree, and a member of the 2025 World Team.
Each recruit cited strong connections with coaches or teammates as key factors in their decisions to join Illinois wrestling.