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Mason Jones Earns All-American Honors with Fourth-Place Finish at NCAA Division III National Championship

Mar 16, 2026

Sophomore standout Mason Jones delivered an exceptional performance this weekend at the NCAA Division III National Wrestling Championships, earning All-American honors with an impressive fourth-place finish on the national stage in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

Competing against the top wrestlers from across the country, Jones battled through a highly competitive bracket to secure his place among the nation’s elite. His fourth-place finish marks a significant milestone in his collegiate career and continues �鶹ԭ��’s proud tradition of excellence in wrestling. He is the first All-American since 2007 and Manchester’s 23rd All-American in program history.

Throughout��the tournament, Jones��demonstrated��resilience, technical skill and composure under pressure. His strong showing not only earned him All-American recognition but also showcased the determination and work ethic that��have��defined his season.��

Manchester��University’s wrestling program has long been recognized for its competitive success and commitment to developing high-level student-athletes. Over the years, the Spartans have��built a legacy that includes numerous conference champions, national qualifiers, and All-Americans. Jones’ achievement adds another chapter to that tradition and reflects the strength and culture of the program.

“This is a tremendous accomplishment for Mason,” said Head Coach Josh Hardman. “To compete at the national level and finish fourth in the country as a sophomore speaks volumes about his dedication and the work he has put in. We’re incredibly proud of how he represented Manchester on the national stage.”��

Jones’ performance continues the momentum for the Spartans’ wrestling program, reinforcing Manchester’s reputation as a perennial contender in NCAA Division III wrestling.��

From��Dyer, Ind.,��Jones��was a��two-time��place finisher��at the State level��in��high school��at Lake Central,��which fueled his��drive to compete��at the collegiate level.��With two seasons still ahead of him, Jones’ future remains bright as he looks to build on this accomplishment and continue contributing to Manchester’s storied wrestling tradition.

“Mason is��a great example��of what we expect from our wrestlers.��He’s��a great student��and an even better person. He works hard on and off the mat.��His leadership in our program elevates the entire team and is��a great example��of what��hard work��can��achieve.��It��was a team effort to��get him on that podium,��and we are excited about the future of our wrestling program,” continued Hardman.��

Jones ended his season��with a 28-5 overall record.��Jones��is a��Resident Assistant, Scholar All-American and bio-chem major.��

For more information about �鶹ԭ�� athletics and the Spartan wrestling program, visit��.��

For the media

Contact Mason Krider, sports information director, at MDKrider@manchester.edu or Josh Hardman, head wrestling coach, at JAHardman@manchester.edu.

Photo credit to �鶹ԭ�� student Christopher Backus.

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