Kendric Maple, associate head coach of the University of Missouri wrestling team, has been named to the Kansas Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2025. The Kansas Sports Hall of Fame recognizes athletes who have made significant contributions to sports in Kansas.
“I am honored to be selected for the Kansas Sports Hall of Fame,” said Maple. “This could not be possible without the countless people who have mentored and poured into me, not just as a wrestler but also as a person. Therefore, I would like to accept this award on their behalf and thank all the coaches, teachers and family who have helped me succeed.”
The induction ceremony is scheduled for August 2, 2025, in Topeka, Kansas. Maple will be one of ten inductees and is the only representative from wrestling in this year’s class. He was previously inducted into the Kansas Wrestling Hall of Fame in October 2022.
“This is an accomplished group, and one the Kansas Sports Hall of Fame is extremely proud to recognize on behalf of the entire state,” said Jim Dunning, Jr., chairman of the Kansas Sports Hall of Fame. “The individuals represent the best of the State of Kansas and come from diverse backgrounds. Their stories provide inspiration to all Kansans.”
Maple grew up in Wichita, Kansas, where he won two state wrestling titles at Wichita Heights High School—one at 130 pounds as a junior in 2008 and another at 135 pounds as a senior. He was a four-year letterman for his high school team and earned Co-Wrestler of the Year honors.
At the University of Oklahoma, Maple was a three-time All-American with placements of fourth, first, and eighth during his last three seasons. In 2013, he won an NCAA National Title at 141 pounds after an undefeated season. He remains one of only ten wrestlers from Kansas to win an NCAA Championship; his title stood as the most recent until Newton-native Wyatt Hendrickson claimed one in 2025.
After college, Maple continued competing successfully by winning two U.S. Open freestyle championships in 2017 and 2022. He represented Tiger Style Wrestling Club during his later competitive years.
Since joining Missouri’s coaching staff six seasons ago, Maple has coached 15 All-Americans and two individual national champions.