Kean University has announced the addition of men’s and women’s wrestling to its NCAA sports lineup starting in Fall 2025. This expansion will bring the university’s total to 22 NCAA athletic teams, alongside varsity eSports.
Kelly Williams, director of Athletics and Recreation at Kean, highlighted the significance of this development: “It is a special time for Kean Athletics as we make history by adding women’s wrestling to our department, creating another opportunity for young women to follow their passion on the collegiate level.” Williams also noted that reestablishing the men’s wrestling program signifies a commitment to providing diverse athletic opportunities for student-athletes.
The previous men’s wrestling program was discontinued nearly three decades ago. The decision to introduce these programs aligns with growing interest in wrestling both locally and statewide. Women’s wrestling has gained traction at colleges and is recognized as an Olympic sport. Recently, NCAA members approved it as a championship sport.
Chris DiSanto ’05, who has been serving as the men’s head wrestling coach at Bergen Community College since 2013, will lead both new teams. Williams expressed confidence in DiSanto’s abilities: “I am excited to hire Coach DiSanto to lead both wrestling programs. He brings tremendous college coaching experience and a tireless work ethic that will lead our wrestling programs to success in competition and the classroom.”
DiSanto is enthusiastic about his return to Kean University as head coach. “I have years of experience at the college level, and I will bring the same passion and unwavering support to this team,” he said.
Reflecting on his past experiences at Kean, DiSanto recalled: “I remember my first year at Kean. They did not have a wrestling team then, but there was a room with wrestling mats on the floor… Having a wrestling program return to campus is exactly what Kean has been missing.”
