Former Bear Cave Coach Jace Koelzer Named USA Wrestling Athlete of the Week

Bear Cave Wrestling is proud to celebrate former Bear Cave coach Jace Koelzer, who was recently named USA Wrestling Athlete of the Week, presented by Air Force Special Warfare, after a standout international performance in Sweden.

Jace captured gold at the Haparanda Cup in Haparanda, Sweden, winning the 60 kg Greco-Roman division against an international field. The victory marks a major milestone in his transition to pursuing Greco-Roman wrestling full-time—a decision he made earlier this year that is already paying dividends on the world stage.

Competing in a five-man round-robin bracket, Koelzer won four matches, including three shutout technical falls over Swedish opponents. His lone decision was a controlled 4–1 win over Bulgaria’s Alyosha Iliev, a recent Haavisto Cup silver medalist.

Earlier in 2025, Koelzer placed 6th at the Greco-Roman World Team Trials during the CLAW U.S. Open while representing Bear Cave Wrestling Club. He has also built an impressive resume at the age-group level, earning top-eight finishes at the U23 World Team Trials in both Greco-Roman and freestyle, along with multiple national-level placements.

Jace’s growth as an athlete mirrors the passion and discipline he brought to the room during his time coaching at Bear Cave. While we’ll miss him mat-side, we fully support his decision to chase his goals at the highest level of the sport.

Once Bear Cave, always Bear Cave. We’re proud of you, Coach Jace.

Bear Cave Wrestling wishes Jace continued success as he represents the United States and pursues excellence in Greco-Roman wrestling worldwide.