The University of Wyoming wrestling program is experiencing a dynamic resurgence, spearheaded by standout junior and All-American Jore Volk.
As the No. 2-ranked wrestler in the 125-pound weight class, Volk exemplifies the dedication and skill fueling the Cowboys’ strong start this season. Wyoming’s wrestling team, currently ranked No. 24, faces a significant test this weekend with Big 12 road duals against No. 3 Oklahoma State and No. 22 Oklahoma.
Volk has emerged as a key figure in Wyoming’s success under head coach Mark Branch. Known for his tireless work ethic and resilience, Volk’s rise has drawn comparisons to Bryce Meredith, a Wyoming wrestling legend. Branch praised Volk’s consistent dedication.
“He doesn’t really have off days. And so, it’s earned,” he said.
After earning All-American honors at last year’s NCAA championships with a seventh-place finish, Volk has continued his dominance this season. He is 3-0, including victories over two top-15 opponents, and is poised for a rematch with Oklahoma State’s No. 6 Troy Spratley on Friday, a pivotal matchup in the dual.
“It’s a really fun time to be a part of the program… We have a lot of momentum… and get to go wrestle one of the best teams in the country. That will be a good one to test our guys and see where we’re at,” Volk said.
Wyoming’s roster features a talented group of wrestlers making waves in the Big 12. Seven starters are ranked, including Volk and NCAA qualifiers Gabe Willochell (No. 18 at 149 pounds) and Joey Novak (No. 10 at 197 pounds). Novak, undefeated this season, has showcased his prowess with two pins, contributing to Wyoming’s 2-0 start.
The Cowboys opened their season with a commanding 28-12 win over Campbell in Cheyenne, followed by a dominant 46-0 victory against Western Wyoming in their home opener. These results underscore the team’s marked improvement from last year.
“This is a good opportunity for our guys to notch a couple of highly-ranked wins… We can really create a lot of positive energy early in the year, but we are going to have to wrestle our best to be competitive,” Branch noted.
Branch, a two-time NCAA champion and four-time finalist during his collegiate career at Oklahoma State, has brought his championship pedigree to Wyoming. Now in his 16th season as head coach, Branch is one victory away from becoming the program’s all-time winningest coach.
Branch’s influence is reflected not only in the team’s performance but also in his recruitment success. Volk, a three-time high school state champion and top 50 national recruit, initially seemed like a long shot to commit to Wyoming. However, after his visit to Laramie, Volk knew it was the right fit.
“Coach Branch has been through it. He’s a two-time national champ and knows what it takes… To be able to wrestle for someone like that, I’m super grateful,” Volk said.
The Cowboys’ dual against Oklahoma State marks the home debut for David Taylor, the new head coach of the Stillwater-based Cowboys, and will take place in the storied Gallagher-Iba Arena. Wyoming’s following matchup against Oklahoma in Norman will also be challenging, with both teams tied for seventh at last season’s Big 12 Championships.
After this weekend, Wyoming will prepare for the prestigious Cliff Keen Las Vegas Invitational on Dec. 6-7, a proving ground for the nation’s top wrestlers.
Wyoming Athletics, 7220sports.com, and Pistols Firing contributed to this report.
