Head coach James Rollins has decided to hang up the title as Lindenwood’s head wrestling coach due to health concerns. 

Although it was a tough decision, Rollins thought it would be best to step away from the sport he loved. He’s been battling back-and-forth with health issues.

“It’s really taking a toll, not only physically but mentally,” Rollins said. “And I’m still not back where I need to be.” 

Rollins decided to pass the torch along to assistant coach Dallas Smith as the new head coach and to continue the dynasty of the winning program.

“This program doesn’t evolve around me, I just happen to get lots of credit for it,” Rollins said. 

Rollins coached five All-Americans that are returning for the 2021-22 team.

Last season, the Lions won the GLVC with a perfect 5-0 mark, finished with an overall record of 7-1, and ended the season being in third-place in the NCAA Division II National Championships.

“The team is in a great place right now with a lot of fire power,” Rollins said. “I can feel comfortable knowing I had a great over 10 years here at Lindenwood, impacting a lot of kids and they had a great impact on me.”