DES MOINES, Iowa — Grand View University Head Wrestling Coach Nick Mitchell announced Wednesday that he would be leaving after 17 years.

Mitchell helped start the Grand View Wrestling program and would eventually lead the Vikings through 13 National Championships, nine straight from 2012 to 2020. Along with 12 NWCA National Dual Titles, 7 Central Region National Qualifier Championships and 9 Heart of America Conference titles.

Following the announcement, Mitchell shared a statement which read in part, “As I reflect on the last 17 years at Grand View, all I can think of is how much gratitude I have for my time here. I’m eternally grateful God gave me this opportunity at the right time in my life. I have been truly blessed to work with incredible student-athletes, coaches, and administrators who believe in the same championship lifestyle we built this program on from the beginning and that continues to drive the program today.”

The winningest coach in NAIA wrestling history, Mitchell was named the 2020 USA Wrestling Coach of the Year, six-time NWCA National Coach of the Year, and nine-time NAIA National Coach of the Year.

“It is hard to put into words what Coach Mitchell has done for our wrestling program and for Grand View University Athletics,” said Troy Plummer, Athletic Director. “He steps away as the most successful men’s wrestling coach in NAIA history and will leave behind a legacy of remarkable achievement. Nick has been an incredible leader, mentor, and ambassador for Grand View University. His vision and relentless commitment to a championship lifestyle elevated not only our men’s wrestling program but also the entire culture of Grand View Athletics. While we are sad to see him go, we are deeply grateful for the foundation of excellence and integrity he built here. Nick will always be a valued member of the Viking family, and we wish him nothing but the best in his next chapter.”

While it was not announced what Mitchell would be leaving for, the announcement states that Mitchell is leaving for an “opportunity outside of collegiate athletics.”

Mitchell announced that long-time assistant coaches Grant Henderson and Paul Reedy would be leading the wrestling program.